As the number of bicyclists grows, the amount of accidents involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like many other car collisions, a large number of them happen at intersections. Many of these collisions are the result of drivers who seem to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roads. They neglect to look for cyclists when making turns or moving through intersections. These types of collisions are exacerbated by excessively 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.
Some drivers might not be familiar with the laws of the road when dealing with cyclists sharing the road. This lack of understanding can be especially dangerous when a bicyclist and a vehicle are sharing the street while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are one of the most dangerous areas for vehicles and bicyclists. Intersections are one of the main locations where collisions leading to devastating injuries occur.
Motorists not seeing a cyclist when driving is a common cause of a collision involving a bicycle. Both drivers and bicyclists must take safety measures to minimize this very avoidable cause of bike collisions.
Bicyclists can use safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored clothing to help reduce the possibility of an accident. Similarly, motorists need to know 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 lot of bike commuters.
Even while riding within the confines 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 inattention. This can potentially cause a bicyclist to sustain major injuries.
As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a major threat to bicyclists, particularly in urban settings. These accidents 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 bicyclist to avoid being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted driving is one of the biggest concerns for road safety that we face today. As smartphones have become a major part of our everyday lives, many individuals find it difficult to put down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a danger to other vehicles. However they are even more dangerous to cyclists and pedestrians because they have practically zero protection if they are hit. Someone that is distracted by texting, eating, or a multitude of other things may divert into bike lanes. Also, they may 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 reason for bicycle accidents involving motor vehicles.
When a motorist that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not fully assess their surroundings, it can lead to serious repercussions for pedestrians and bicyclists. Bicyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while people 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 motorists can not rely on these technologies in place of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.
Following proper safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Burbank is the most effective way to prevent accidents and injuries. When moving in traffic, cyclists should do the following:
If you get hurt in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:
If you sustain an injury in an accident with a car while riding your bicycle, or somebody you love has been tragically killed, you need to speak with a knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer immediately. They will help determine whether you may have a valid personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent driver.
At Tim D. Wright, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers assist bicyclists 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 claim or seeking a remedy using other methods.
