To Prevent Accidents and Injuries, Cyclists Must Always Ride Defensively
As the number of bicyclists grows, the number of accidents involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like many other vehicle collisions, a large number of them occur at intersections. A number of these accidents are the result of motorists who appear to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roadways. They neglect to look out for bicyclists when making turns or moving through intersections.
These kinds of accidents are exacerbated by overly large and busy intersections. Furthermore, bicyclists are put at risk by quickly changing traffic signals that may turn red before they completely cross the intersection.
What Are the Most Frequent Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents involve:
Drivers failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections
Some drivers might not be familiar with the laws of the road when dealing with bicyclists sharing the road. This lack of awareness can be especially hazardous when a bicyclist and a vehicle are sharing the roadway while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are one of the most hazardous places for cars and bicyclists. Intersections are one of the main locations where collisions resulting in devastating injuries occur.
A motorist failing to observe cyclists on the street
Drivers not seeing a cyclist when driving is a common cause of a crash involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists need to take safety measures to limit this very avoidable cause of bike collisions.
Cyclists can utilize safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored apparel to help lower the possibility of a collision. Likewise, drivers must know that cars are not the only vehicles they need to look out for when driving. Motor vehicle drivers should be especially careful 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 must be alert at all times for distracted and negligent 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 sustain major 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 serious danger to cyclists, especially in urban environments. These incidents 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. Engaging in defensive riding techniques is the most effective way for a cyclist to prevent being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted drivers hitting a cyclist
Distracted driving is one of the most significant concerns for roadway safety that we face today. As smartphones have become a major part of our daily lives, many people find it difficult to put down their phones even while driving. Distracted motorists are clearly a threat to other vehicles. However they are even more dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians because they have almost no protection if they are hit. Somebody who is distracted by texting, eating, or a multitude of other things may divert into bike lanes. Likewise, they might 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 crashes involving cars.
Drivers 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 completely 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 people are backing out due to their smaller size and their reduced noise levels. Backup video cameras and sensors are beginning to lessen these kinds of collisions. However drivers can not rely on these technologies in place of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.
How Can I Avoid a Bike Accident?
Following proper safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Alhambra is the best way to avoid collisions and injuries. When riding in traffic, bicyclists should do the following:
What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?
If you get hurt in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:
Contact an Alhambra Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Mendez & Sanchez
If you sustain an injury in an accident with a car while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you need to talk to an experienced bicycle accident attorney immediately. He or she will help determine whether you might have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death case against a negligent driver.
At Mendez & Sanchez, our skilled bicycle accident lawyers help cyclists in seeking claims against negligent motorists who have caused serious injuries. We understand how to receive all of the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, whether that means filing a lawsuit or seeking a solution through other methods.
"Michael was an outstanding attorney. He always made sure to keep me in the loop with my case and worked nonstop to help get the outcome I deserved. I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs only the best lawyer and I will definitely return to him again in the future!"
"Super professional, friendly staff. The team was so knowledgeable and helpful throughout the entire legal process of my car accident. I highly recommend using them!"
"Very professional and diligent. Got my case resolved in a timely manner and communicated with my throughout the process of my case."
"Wow! Michael Sanchez got me more money than I thought I would ever get. He's confident and a shark yet kind with his clients. I highly recommend."
"My fiancé had a successful case with this firm. Under the circumstances, Mendez & Sanchez, attorneys and staff made this a pleasant experience. Staff was respectful, genuine, and all around a great fit for the case and my fiancé. This firm comes highly recommended!"
While other firms just handle your bodily injury claim, we offer a complimentary full-service package where we will also handle your property damage for no fee!
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