To Prevent Accidents and Injuries, Cyclists Have to Always Ride Defensively
As the number of bicyclists grows, the number of collisions involving bikes will also likely grow. And, like many other vehicle collisions, a number of them happen at intersections.
A lot of these accidents are the result of motorists who seem to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roads. They neglect to look out for cyclists when making turns or driving through intersections.
These types of accidents are worsened by overly large and busy intersections. Furthermore, bicyclists are endangered by rapidly changing traffic signals that might turn red before they completely cross the intersection.
What Are the Most Prevalent Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Some of the most common causes of bicycle collisions involve:
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 roadway. This lack of understanding can be especially hazardous when a cyclist and a vehicle are sharing the road while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are among the most dangerous areas for cars and cyclists. Intersections are one of the main locations where collisions leading to devastating injuries happen.
A motorist failing to observe cyclists on the road
Drivers not seeing a cyclist when driving is a common cause of a collision involving a bicycle. Both drivers and bicyclists must take precautions to limit 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, drivers need to understand that cars are not the only vehicles they need to look out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers should be especially mindful at intersections, near bike lanes, and in areas with a large number of bike commuters.
Drivers encroaching into bike lanes
Even while riding within the boundaries of a bike lane, bicyclists must be alert at all times for distracted and careless motorists. Cars can accidentally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after only a few seconds of inattention. This can potentially cause a bicyclist to sustain major injuries.
Bicycle doorings when a driver or passenger does not pay attention while opening a car door
As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a major threat to cyclists, especially in urban environments. These accidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can cause devastating injuries like brain injuries, neck and back injuries, facial damage, and long-lasting pain and suffering. Engaging in defensive riding techniques is the most effective way for a cyclist to prevent being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted motorists hitting a bicyclist
Distracted driving is one of the biggest concerns for road safety that we face today. As cell phones have become a huge part of our daily lives, many individuals find it hard to set down their phones even while driving. Distracted motorists are clearly a danger to other vehicles. Yet they are even more dangerous to cyclists and pedestrians since they have practically no protection if they are hit. Somebody that is distracted by texting, eating, or a multitude of other things may veer into bike lanes. Likewise, they may not notice a bicyclist 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 accidents involving motor vehicles.
Motorists neglecting to yield to bicyclists while pulling in and out of driveways or parking lots
When a driver that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not completely assess their surroundings, it can cause serious consequences 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 reduced noise levels. Backup cameras and sensors are beginning to lessen these kinds of collisions. But drivers can not rely on these technologies instead 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 Woodland Hills is the most effective way to avoid accidents and injuries. When riding in traffic, bicyclists 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 hurt in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:
Contact a Woodland Hills Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Drake Law Firm
If you sustain an injury in a collision with a motor vehicle while riding your bicycle, or somebody you love has been tragically killed, you need to consult with a knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. They will help figure out whether you might have a valid personal injury or wrongful death case against a negligent motorist.
At Drake Law Firm, our experienced bicycle accident attorneys assist cyclists in seeking claims against negligent drivers that have caused major injuries. We understand how to receive all of the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, whether that means filing a lawsuit or pursuing a remedy using other methods.
Contact Drake Law Firm so I can answer any questions you may have and let you know what I can do to help. If you’re unable to visit our firm, we can come to your home or hospital room.
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