To Prevent Accidents and Injuries, Cyclists Have To Always Ride Defensively
As the amount of cyclists increases, the amount of collisions involving bikes will also likely grow. And, like a lot of other vehicle crashes, a large number of them occur at intersections.
Many of these collisions are the result of drivers that seem to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roads. They fail to look out for cyclists when making turns or moving through intersections.
These types of accidents are exacerbated by overly large and busy intersections. Furthermore, bicyclists are put at risk by quickly changing traffic signals that might 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 crashes include:
Motorists failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections
Some drivers might not be familiar with the rules of the road when dealing with bicyclists sharing the roadway. This lack of knowledge can be especially hazardous when a cyclist and a car are sharing the roadway while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for cars and cyclists. Intersections are one of the major locations where accidents leading to devastating injuries happen.
A driver failing to observe bicyclists when driving
Motorists not seeing a bicyclist on the street is a common reason for a crash involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists should take safety measures to minimize this very preventable cause of bike collisions.
Cyclists can use safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored clothing to help lower the possibility of a collision. Likewise, drivers need to be aware that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for when driving. Motor vehicle drivers need to be especially 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 confines of a bike lane, bicyclists need to be alert at all times for distracted and reckless drivers. Cars can unintentionally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after only a few seconds of distraction. This can potentially cause a bicyclist to sustain 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 major threat to cyclists, especially in urban settings. These incidents 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. Practicing defensive riding techniques is the most effective way for a bicyclist to prevent being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted motorists hitting a cyclist
Distracted driving is one of the most significant concerns for roadway safety that we experience today. As cell phones have become a major part of our daily lives, many people find it hard 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 since they have almost no protection if they are struck. Someone that is distracted by texting, eating, or a myriad of other reasons may veer into bike lanes. Also, they might not notice a cyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a cyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big concern that it's been identified as the leading reason for bicycle accidents involving automobiles.
Drivers failing 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 check their surroundings, it can result in major consequences 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 starting to lessen these types of collisions. However motorists 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 appropriate safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Pasadena is the best 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 hurt in a bicycle accident, it is important to do the following:
If you sustain an injury in a collision with a motor vehicle while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you need to talk to an experienced bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible. He or she will help figure out whether you might have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent motorist.
At Mendez & Sanchez, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers help bicyclists in pursuing cases against negligent motorists that have caused major injuries. We understand how to collect all of the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, whether that means filing a lawsuit or seeking a remedy through other means.
"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!"
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"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!"
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