Berkeley, one of California's most beautiful cities, has a wonderful Mediterranean climate and a stunning view of the Golden Gate Bridge. It is also home to thousands of cyclists and is known to be one of the safest cities for bikers in California thanks to its Bicycle Boulevards, a separate section of arterial roads for cyclists with bike lanes and low traffic numbers. However, even though Berkeley has done a lot to protect cyclists, it also has an environment which poses unique risks.

Before you bike in Berkeley, California, it is important to understand a few things about the climate so you can decrease your chances of being in a bike accident:

Foggy Summers: Since Berkeley lies on the California coast, it is the recipient of upwelling ocean currents which produce fresh fog late at night and in the mornings throughout summer. Most locals avoid biking at these times. However, if you decide to go for a ride in this type of weather, make sure you are prepared for the fog. You should wear all your standard safety gear, get bright lights on the front and back of your bike, and practice defensive biking tactics.

Winter Rainstorms: While Berkeley has wonderfully warm winters with stretches of sunny days and nothing more than a rare light dusting of snow, it also receives a few severe rainstorms. If you are biking in Berkeley during the winter, it is important to have a back-up plan in case of pouring rain so you can avoid any potential bike accidents. If you don't feel safe biking then you should call a friend, family member, or cab for a ride.

Dry Spells: Berkeley goes through a dry spell from June to September that can catch you off guard if you aren't prepared. Throughout these four months combined the city receives a mere 0.7 inches of rain. While there is tons of safety gear out there to protect against bike accidents, the most important piece of gear is your brain. By drinking lots of water and eating well you'll ensure yourself optimal awareness and maneuverability.

In 2006 there were 147 reported bike accidents in Berkeley. When you are biking throughout foggy or rainy conditions, there are so many things that can go wrong. If you aren't on a bicycle path, you run a much higher risk of being in a bike accident because other vehicles on the road turn into hazards.

Berkeley, like most cities in California, has a high population density which means the roadways are crowded and there is a lot of potential for bike accidents. While you can't always avoid a bike accident, you can reduce your chances of being in one by wearing safety gear, planning ahead, and having a solid understanding of your environment.