As the number of cyclists grows, the amount of accidents involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like a lot of other vehicle accidents, a large number of them occur at intersections. A lot of these collisions are the result of drivers who seem to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roadways. They fail to look for cyclists when making turns or proceeding through intersections. These types of accidents are worsened by overly large and busy intersections. Additionally, bicyclists are put at risk by rapidly changing traffic signals that might turn red before they completely cross the intersection.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Some of the most common causes of bicycle collisions include:
Motorists failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections
Some motorists may not be familiar with the rules of the road when dealing with cyclists sharing the street. This lack of awareness can be especially dangerous when a cyclist and a vehicle are sharing the street while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are among the most dangerous areas for cars and bicyclists. Intersections are one of the main areas where accidents leading to devastating injuries occur.
A motorist failing to observe cyclists on the street
Motorists not seeing a bicyclist on the street is a common reason for a collision involving a bicycle. Both drivers and bicyclists need to take precautions to limit this very preventable cause of bike accidents.
Bicyclists can use safety devices like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored clothing to help reduce the possibility of a crash. Similarly, motorists need to be aware that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers should be especially cautious at intersections, near bike lanes, and in areas with a lot of bike commuters.
Motorists encroaching into bike lanes
Even while riding within the confines of a bike lane, cyclists should be alert at all times for distracted and careless drivers. Vehicles can accidentally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after only a few seconds of distraction. This can potentially cause a cyclist to suffer serious injuries.
Bicycle doorings when a driver or passenger does not pay attention while opening a car door
As we discussed above, dooring incidents are a major danger to cyclists, especially in urban settings. These accidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can lead to 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 prevent being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted motorists hitting a cyclist
Distracted driving is one of the biggest problems for road safety that we experience today. As smartphones have become a major part of our daily lives, many individuals find it difficult to set down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a risk to other vehicles. Yet they are even more dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians because they have practically no protection if they are struck. Somebody who is distracted by texting, eating, or a variety of other reasons may veer into bike lanes. Likewise, they might 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 cause of bicycle collisions involving cars.
Motorists failing 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 fully check their surroundings, it can result in serious repercussions for pedestrians and bicyclists. Bicyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while individuals are backing out because of their smaller size and their low noise levels. Backup cameras and sensors are beginning to minimize these types of accidents. But drivers can not depend on these technologies in place of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.
How Can I Avoid a Bike Accident?
Following appropriate safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in San Gabriel is the most effective way to avoid collisions and injuries. When riding in traffic, bicyclists should 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 San Gabriel Bicycle Accident Attorney at Tim D. Wright
If you sustain an injury in an accident with a motor vehicle while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you need to consult with a knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. He or she will help figure out whether you might have a valid personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent motorist.
At Tim D. Wright, our skilled bicycle accident lawyers assist bicyclists in seeking cases against negligent motorists who have caused serious injuries. We know how to collect all of the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, whether that means filing a lawsuit or seeking a solution through other methods.
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