To Avoid Collisions and Injuries, Cyclists Must Always Ride Defensively
As the amount of bicyclists grows, the number of collisions involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like many other car accidents, a large number of them occur at intersections. A number of these collisions are the result of motorists that appear to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roadways. They fail to look for bicyclists when making turns or moving through intersections.
These types of accidents are worsened by excessively large and busy intersections. Additionally, bicyclists are endangered by rapidly changing traffic signals that might turn red before they completely cross the intersection.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Several of the most common causes of bicycle collisions involve:
Motorists failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections
Some motorists may not be familiar with the rules of the road when dealing with bicyclists sharing the road. This lack of understanding can be especially dangerous when a bicyclist and a car are sharing the roadway while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are one of the most dangerous areas for vehicles and cyclists. Intersections are one of the major areas where accidents leading to devastating injuries occur.
A motorist failing to observe bicyclists when driving
Motorists not seeing a bicyclist on the road is a common cause of a collision involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists should take precautions to limit this very avoidable cause of bike collisions.
Bicyclists can use safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored apparel to help lower the possibility of an accident. Likewise, drivers must understand that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers need to 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 reckless drivers. Vehicles can unintentionally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after just a few seconds of distraction. This can possibly cause a cyclist to sustain serious injuries.
Bicycle doorings when a driver or passenger doesn't pay attention while opening a car door
As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a serious danger to cyclists, particularly in urban settings. These incidents 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. Engaging in 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 greatest concerns for roadway safety that we face today. As smartphones have become a huge part of our daily lives, many individuals find it difficult to set down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a threat to other vehicles. But they are even more dangerous to cyclists and pedestrians because they have practically no protection if they are hit. Someone who is distracted by texting, eating, or a variety of other reasons might veer into bike lanes. Also, 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 problem that it's been identified as the leading reason for bicycle crashes involving automobiles.
Motorists 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 fully check their surroundings, it can cause serious consequences for pedestrians and bicyclists. Cyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while individuals are backing out because of their smaller size and their reduced noise levels. Backup video cameras and sensors are starting to lessen these types of accidents. 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 appropriate safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Montebello is the most effective way to avoid collisions 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 injured in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:
Contact a Montebello Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Mendez & Sanchez
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 should talk to an experienced bicycle accident lawyer right away. They will help determine whether you might have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent driver.
At Mendez & Sanchez, our knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyers assist cyclists in pursuing claims against negligent drivers that have caused severe injuries. We know how to collect all of the compensation you deserve for your injuries, whether that means filing a claim or seeking a solution 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!"
"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."
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"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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