Understanding Bicycle Accidents
An unexpected result of the COVID 19 pandemic was recently reported on by Local 10 News. The news outlet reported that the current pandemic has actually created a boom in the bicycle industry as more and more people are brushing off old bikes and buying new ones as a form of exercise and a safer alternative to public transportation. The nationwide surge in demand has apparently caused bicycles to sell out at shops around the country. Officials are reportedly trying to take advantage of the growing momentum by expanding and widening bike lanes for more cyclists during the pandemic which is great for cyclist traffic. However, this unfortunately doesn’t overcome the fact that the biggest threat to cyclists is not other commuters on two wheels but is instead attributable to those in motorized cars.
Dangers to Bicyclists
As we approach the summer months when bicycle-related deaths peak, it is imperative that anyone who has a passion for riding bicycles understands that when a crash occurs between a car and a bike, it tends to be the cyclist who unfortunately incurs the majority of the injuries. According to the National Safety Council, over 850 of the roughly 1000 bicyclists who perished in accidents in 2018 died in motor-vehicle crashes. And while bicyclists’ deaths accounted for only 2 percent of all motor-vehicle traffic fatalities that year, disturbingly, the number of these deaths has increased 30 percent in the last 10 years.
What Are Common Bicycle Accident Injuries?
Unfortunately, collisions between cars and those riding bicycles can result in a variety of injuries that include:
- Head lacerations
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spine damage
- Cranial hemorrhage
- Concussions
- Contusions
- Fractured bones
- Punctures to internal organs
- Paralysis
How Can Bicycle Injuries Be Prevented?
Sadly, hundreds of cyclists are killed each year in traffic accidents. The good news is that many of these accidents are totally preventable. For example, the simple act of wearing a helmet can be the difference between life and death in the event of an accident and obtaining a properly fitting helmet is one of the most important actions every cyclist should undertake. And while drivers can be – and often are – responsible for a collision between a bicycle and a vehicle, it is imperative that every cyclist strive to avoid preventable accidents resulting from rider error such as:
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Riding against traffic
- Not complying with traffic laws and signals
Contact Us Today.
Bicycle accidents can lead to serious injuries and can even lead to tragic deaths in some cases. If you have been negatively impacted by this kind of accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses as well as for lost wages and the pain you experience if your injuries occurred because of someone else’s negligence. The best way to gain an understanding about your legal options is to speak with attorneys who are experienced in handling a wide range of personal injury claims. As the Miami personal injury attorneys at Payer & Associates, you can depend on us for the help you need. Contact us today to begin.
Resource:
local10.com/news/national/2020/05/24/pandemic-a-boon-for-the-bicycle-as-thousands-snap-them-up/
https://www.payerandassociates.com/understanding-wrongful-death-claims-in-florida/
