Cycling is a popular activity for urban and rural areas throughout the United States. Some people choose riding a bike as a form of exercise. Others enjoy cycling work or in place of getting in a car. While riding can be an enjoyable activity, it is also risky, especially in heavily trafficked urban areas.
A bicycle accident can result in lasting physical and emotional damage. The fear and distress that come with being involved in a bicycle crash often lead to a loss of enjoyment of an activity that once helped to relieve stress and support a healthy lifestyle.
Unfortunately, drivers are not always careful when watching for bicyclists on the road. Understanding how most bicycle accidents happen can help you take steps to protect yourself and minimize the risk. Factors such as distracted driving, failure to yield, speeding, and alcohol-impaired drivers are common causes of bicycle accidents. Whether it’s a driver not paying attention or reckless behavior on the road, the consequences can be severe for cyclists.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a bicycle accident, it’s advisable to seek legal guidance to work through the details of your personal injury claims and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact a Somerset bicycle accident attorney near you to discuss your rights and options. Stay safe and be mindful on the roads.
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One of the leading causes of bicycle accidents is distracted driving. With the rise of smartphones and other portable electronic devices, more and more drivers are succumbing to distraction behind the wheel. When drivers are texting, talking on the phone, or engaging with social media while driving, their attention is diverted from the road, making them less aware of their surroundings. This lack of awareness can lead to serious accidents involving cyclists. Drivers need to stay focused on the road and avoid any distractions to ensure the safety of all road users, including bicyclists. When they do not, cyclists can suffer severe injuries.
Another common cause of bicycle accidents occurs when drivers fail to yield to cyclists. Drivers who fail to yield to cyclists at intersections, crosswalks, or when making turns put bicyclists at significant risk. This negligence can result in severe injuries or even fatalities. Drivers need to be alert and cautious when sharing the road with cyclists. Yielding the right of way and giving cyclists the space they need can help prevent accidents and promote a safer road environment for everyone. When drivers do not properly yield, they can sideswipe or T-bone a cyclist.
Speeding is not only dangerous for car-to-car collisions but especially so for car-to-bicycle accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they have less control over their vehicles and are less likely to notice bicycles on the road. A speeding driver may not have enough time to react or stop with enough time to avoid colliding with a bicyclist, leading to devastating consequences. Speed limits exist for a reason, and drivers must obey them to ensure the safety of all road users, including cyclists.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is extremely dangerous and increases the risk of accidents involving cyclists. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it harder for drivers to safely share the road with bicyclists. Drunk drivers may not accurately judge the distance between their vehicles and bicycles or may make reckless decisions that put cyclists’ lives in danger. It is important for drivers to never get behind the wheel if they have consumed alcohol. Choosing alternative transportation or designating a sober driver can save lives.
Dooring accidents are one of the common causes of bike accidents. It happens when a driver opens the door of their parked vehicle without checking for oncoming cyclists. As a rider, you need to be vigilant to avoid such accidents, but sometimes it’s impossible to anticipate when a door will suddenly swing open.
When a dooring accident occurs, it can result in serious injuries for cyclists. Broken bones, head trauma, and internal injuries are just a few examples of the potential harm. While dooring accidents are often underestimated, they have the potential to result in severe injuries, especially if a cyclist is thrown backward.
After any type of bike crash, you should seek a free legal consultation. Experienced attorneys can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case to hold the responsible party accountable. They understand the challenges of bicycle accident laws and can handle the legal process on your behalf. With the guidance of an attorney, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal aspects of your case.
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted attorney. They can assess the circumstances of your accident and provide you with the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.
Legal representation protects your rights and provides support throughout your personal injury claims. An experienced bicycle accident attorney can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. They understand the legal process and can advocate for your best interests, ensuring you have the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. Contact a bike accident lawyer near you to discuss your rights and explore your legal options.
Robert S. Marcus, Somerset Bicycle Accident Attorney
Bicycle accidents can have devastating consequences, both physically and emotionally. If you or a loved one has been affected by a bicycle accident, always reach out to an experienced Somerset bicycle accident attorney. They can provide the legal guidance and representation you need to face the personal injury claims process and seek the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to contact a bicycle accident lawyer to discuss your rights and explore your legal options. Remember to stay safe, be mindful, and follow the rules of the road when cycling.
Marcus & Mack
