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To Avoid Collisions and Injuries, Cyclists Need to Always Ride Defensively
As the number of cyclists increases, the number of accidents involving bikes will also likely grow. And, like a lot of other car crashes, a large number of them occur at intersections.
A number of these accidents are the result of drivers that seem to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roadways. They fail to look out for bicyclists when making turns or proceeding through intersections.
These kinds of collisions are exacerbated by overly large and busy intersections. Additionally, 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?
Several of the most common causes of bicycle collisions include:
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 road. This lack of knowledge can be particularly hazardous when a cyclist and a vehicle are sharing the street while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for vehicles and cyclists. Intersections are one of the main locations where collisions leading to devastating injuries take place.
A driver failing to observe cyclists on the street
Motorists not seeing a cyclist on the road is a common reason for an accident involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists need to take safety measures to limit this very avoidable cause of bike accidents.
Bicyclists can utilize safety devices like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored apparel to help lower the possibility of a collision. Likewise, drivers need to understand that cars are not the only vehicles they need to look out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers need to be especially cautious at intersections, near bike lanes, and in locations with a lot of bike commuters.
Motorists encroaching into bike lanes
Even while riding within the boundaries of a bike lane, bicyclists must 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 inattention. This can potentially cause a cyclist to sustain significant 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 serious threat to cyclists, especially in urban environments. 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 most effective way for a bicyclist to prevent being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted drivers hitting a bicyclist
Distracted driving is one of the most significant concerns for road safety that we experience 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 danger to other vehicles. However they are even more dangerous to cyclists and pedestrians because they have practically no protection if they are hit. Someone that is distracted by texting, eating, or a myriad of other reasons may divert into bike lanes. Also, 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 problem that it's been identified as the leading cause of 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 assess their surroundings, it can lead to major consequences for pedestrians and bicyclists. Bicyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while individuals are backing out due to their smaller size and their reduced noise levels. Backup cameras and sensors are beginning to minimize these kinds of collisions. However motorists 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 North Hollywood is the best way to avoid accidents and injuries. When moving in traffic, cyclists 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 essential to do the following:
Contact a North Hollywood Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Drake Law Firm
If you suffer an injury in a collision with a car while riding your bicycle, or somebody you love has been tragically killed, you need to consult with a qualified bicycle accident attorney immediately. He or she will help determine whether you may have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent driver.
At Drake Law Firm, our knowledgeable bicycle accident attorneys assist cyclists in seeking claims against negligent drivers who have caused severe 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 means.
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