As the number of bicyclists grows, the amount of collisions involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like many other car crashes, a number of them happen at intersections. Many of these accidents are the result of motorists who appear to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roads. They fail to look for bicyclists when making turns or moving through intersections.
These kinds of collisions are exacerbated by excessively large and busy intersections. Additionally, bicyclists are put at risk by quickly changing traffic signals that may turn red before they fully cross the intersection.
What Are the Most Prevalent Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Several of the most common causes of bicycle crashes include:
Motorists failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections
Some motorists might not be familiar with the laws of the road when dealing with bicyclists sharing the road. This lack of knowledge can be especially hazardous when a bicyclist and a vehicle are sharing the street while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are among the most dangerous areas for cars and cyclists. Intersections are one of the major locations where collisions resulting in devastating injuries happen.
A driver failing to observe bicyclists on the road
Drivers not seeing a bicyclist on the road is a common reason for an accident involving a bicycle. Both drivers and bicyclists should take safety measures to reduce this very preventable cause of bike collisions.
Cyclists can utilize safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored clothing to help reduce the possibility of a crash. Likewise, motorists must understand that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers need to be particularly cautious at intersections, near bike lanes, and in locations with a large number of bike commuters.
Drivers encroaching into bike lanes
Even while riding within the boundaries of a bike lane, bicyclists should be alert at all times for distracted and negligent motorists. Cars can inadvertently or intentionally drift into a bike lane after only a few seconds of distraction. This can possibly cause a cyclist to suffer serious injuries.
Bicycle doorings when a motorist or passenger doesn't pay attention while opening a car door
As we discussed above, dooring incidents are a serious threat to cyclists, particularly in urban settings. These accidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can result in devastating injuries like brain injuries, neck and back injuries, facial damage, and long-lasting pain and suffering. Practicing defensive riding techniques is the best way for a cyclist to avoid being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted drivers hitting a bicyclist
Distracted driving is one of the biggest problems for roadway safety that we experience today. As cell phones have become a major part of our daily lives, many people find it difficult to set down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a danger to other vehicles. Yet they are even more dangerous to cyclists and pedestrians because they have practically zero protection if they are hit. Someone that is distracted by texting, eating, or a multitude of other things might veer into bike lanes. Likewise, they may not notice a cyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a bicyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big concern that it's been identified as the leading reason for bicycle collisions involving automobiles.
Motorists neglecting to yield to bicyclists while pulling in and out of driveways or parking lots
When a motorist that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not completely assess their surroundings, it can lead to major repercussions for pedestrians and bicyclists. Bicyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while people are backing out because of their smaller size and their low noise levels. Backup video cameras and sensors are beginning to reduce these types of accidents. But drivers can not rely on these technologies in place of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.
How Can I Prevent a Bike Accident?
Following proper safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Bakersfield is the most effective way to prevent accidents and injuries. When moving in traffic, cyclists need to do the following:
How Can I Protect Myself in a Bicycle Accident?
What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?
If you get injured in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:
Contact a Bakersfield Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Tim D. Wright
If you suffer an injury in an accident with a car while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you need to speak with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer immediately. He or she will help figure out whether you might have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent motorist.
At Tim D. Wright, our knowledgeable bicycle accident attorneys assist cyclists in pursuing cases against negligent motorists who have caused major injuries. We understand how to receive all of the compensation you deserve for your injuries, whether that means filing a lawsuit or seeking a remedy through other methods.
Get a free consultation with our legal experts
