A bike is a great way to get around town and explore the neighborhood. However, biking can also be a dangerous endeavor.
According to the National Security Council (NSC) Injury Facts, more than 1,260 cyclists were killed on U.S roadways in 2020 alone. Luckily, you can avoid becoming part of this statistic by understanding the common causes of fatal bicycle crashes and how to avoid them.
Distracted Drivers
Distracted driving continues to be the primary cause of car and bike accidents. In almost every city, you will likely catch a driver texting, eating, using a GPS device, or talking to other passengers while behind the wheel.
When drivers ignore their surroundings, the chances that they will cause an accident are much higher. If you are a cyclist, always remain vigilant to avoid being struck by a distracted driver.
Dooring Accidents
Dooring accidents happen when a driver opens their vehicle door instantly into the path of an oncoming cyclist. This type of accident is common because most cyclists ride closer to parked cars on congested streets.
A dooring accident is hazardous because bicyclists have little protection against the stationary vehicle they hit. To help reduce dooring accidents, motorists should always check to ensure that there are no bikes around before opening their doors.
Cyclists, on the other hand, should ride defensively and always be on the lookout for open doors to avoid getting doored. Moreover, avoid cycling in the blind spot to remain visible to car drivers.
Reckless Cyclists
While not all cyclists are reckless, there are definitely some that are careless on the road. Careless drivers often fail to follow traffic rules or ride with headphones or earphones on, posing a danger to themselves and other road users.
Fortunately, you can easily spot reckless cyclists by their behavior on the road. They move in and out of traffic without any signal, ignore road signs, and even avoid wearing the right cycling gear.
An excellent way to stay safe as a cyclist is to follow all the traffic rules and obey road signs. And since you share the road with other road users, you should always wear the right gear to increase your visibility and safety.
Weather Conditions
Driving in bad weather can be dangerous, mainly when visibility is limited due to fog, snow, or sleet. And when road conditions are worse, the chances of being involved in a collision doubles.
When cycling in poor weather conditions, be extra cautious. Ensure you wear a bright and reflective jacket to stay visible to motorists. Wearing a Snell or DOT-certified helmet is also essential as it protects your head in the event of a fall on a slippery road.
When You Are Injured in a Bike Accident
Sometimes, bicycle accidents are not your fault and you shouldn’t be blamed for your injuries.
“If you’re injured in a bicycle crash because of another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your accident-related expenses,” says attorney Felix Gonzalez of Felix Gonzalez Accident and Injury Law Firm. However, claiming compensation is often complicated, and it can be stressful to negotiate with insurance companies on your own. Therefore, hiring a skilled lawyer is always advisable to maximize your chances of getting what you deserve.