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To Prevent Collisions and Injuries, Cyclists Have to Always Ride Defensively
As the number of bicyclists grows, the amount of accidents involving bikes will also likely grow. And, like many other vehicle crashes, a number of them occur at intersections.
A number of these accidents are the result of motorists that 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 types of collisions are exacerbated by overly large and busy intersections. Furthermore, bicyclists are endangered 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 collisions include:
Drivers failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections
Some motorists may not be familiar with the laws of the road when dealing with cyclists sharing the road. This lack of understanding can be especially hazardous when a bicyclist 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 bicyclists. Intersections are one of the major areas where accidents leading to devastating injuries happen.
A driver failing to observe cyclists on the street
Motorists not seeing a cyclist when driving is a common reason for an accident involving a bicycle. Both drivers and bicyclists must take preventative measures to reduce this very preventable cause of bike accidents.
Bicyclists can use safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored clothing to help reduce the possibility of a collision. Likewise, drivers must realize that cars are not the only vehicles they need to look out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers should be especially cautious at intersections, near bike lanes, and in areas with a lot of bike commuters.
Drivers encroaching into bike lanes
Even while riding within the boundaries of a bike lane, cyclists need to be alert at all times for distracted and careless drivers. Vehicles can inadvertently or intentionally drift into a bike lane after just a few seconds of distraction. This can possibly cause a bicyclist to suffer major injuries.
Bicycle doorings when a motorist or passenger does not pay attention while opening a car door
As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a major danger to cyclists, particularly in urban environments. 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 drivers hitting a bicyclist
Distracted driving is one of the most significant concerns for roadway safety that we experience today. As cell phones have become a huge part of our everyday lives, many individuals find it hard to put down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a risk to other vehicles. Yet they are even more dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians since they have almost zero protection if they are struck. Somebody that is distracted by texting, eating, or a multitude of other things might divert into bike lanes. Likewise, they might not notice a bicyclist 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 cause of bicycle collisions involving automobiles.
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 fully check their surroundings, it can cause 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 low noise levels. Backup video cameras and sensors are beginning to lessen these types of collisions. However drivers 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 Reseda 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 essential to do the following:
Contact a Reseda Bicycle Accident Attorney at Drake Law Firm
If you suffer an injury in an accident with a motor vehicle while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you need to speak with a knowledgeable bicycle accident attorney immediately. He or she will help determine whether you might have a valid personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent motorist.
At Drake Law Firm, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers help cyclists in seeking cases against negligent motorists that 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 pursuing a solution through other methods.
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