Bicycles are popular modes of transportation for many people. Unfortunately, they can also be dangerous. Many bike accidents are due to speeding, reckless driving, or improper use of safety equipment. As a result, a number of injuries, fatalities, and deaths occur.
Fatalities
Bicyclists are involved in many fatal accidents each year. The number of bicycle incidents has been on the rise over the last few years. However, the amount of preventable injuries has decreased by 40 percent over ten years.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tracks cyclist fatalities and the corresponding statistics are reported periodically. A study shows that a large number of these crashes happen in urban areas. In addition, one-third of bicyclist fatalities take place on minor roads.
As a result of these high rates of cyclists fatalities, more cities are installing bike lanes. These lanes are designed to help cyclists avoid being hit by motor vehicles. They are also intended to make cyclists and drivers more safe.
The NHTSA has estimated that in 2019, 846 people will die from bike accidents. This figure is the highest since 2009. Pedalcyclist deaths are more common in urban than rural areas. Urban areas have more pedestrian activity.
Injuries that can result
A bike accident can be a very serious situation. It can cause severe injuries and long-term damage. Bicyclists who are involved in an accident should seek medical attention immediately.
Bike accidents can cause broken bones. These bones can range in size and shape and can take months or years to heal. Even small breaks can cause pain and require surgery.
Some bicycle accidents can cause spinal cord injuries. These can lead to paralysis and other permanent disabilities. Paralysis can impact quality of life, and victims may need to pay for medical and long-term care.
Another common injury is road rash. This is an abrasion of the skin that occurs when the skin comes in contact with a hard surface. Road rash can be painful, and is particularly prone to infection.
Common causes
One of the most common causes of bike accidents is the lack of road awareness. Drivers may fail to check for bicycles or pedestrians, or simply fail to notice them.
Another common cause of bicycle accidents is the driver’s failure to yield. Often, the bicyclist has no time to react and will be hit by a vehicle. In some cases, the bicyclist is thrown onto the pavement or into the side of a vehicle.
A few common reasons for a bicycle accident include speeding, reckless driving and lane changing. Road conditions such as puddles and oil slicks can make a cyclist skid.
Drivers who pull out of parking lots and side streets are another common reason for a bicycle crash. While it is legal to pull out of a parking lot, it is not always a good idea to do so.
Compensation for injuries
If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, you may be eligible for compensation. You can receive financial compensation for your medical bills, as well as lost wages.
Bicycles are prone to damage, and can be expensive to repair. Having insurance can be the difference between being able to afford a bike and not.
It is important to seek medical attention immediately after a bike accident, and to file a claim as soon as possible. Depending on the extent of the injuries, you may be entitled to compensation.
To make a claim, you will need to collect information from each party involved in the accident. This can include the driver of the vehicle, the manufacturer of faulty vehicle components, and transit companies.
In most cases, you will need to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, you may be able to sue the liable party for damages if you do not have auto insurance.
Legal options
There are many legal options available to those involved in a bike accident. An attorney can help evaluate your situation and determine if you have a viable claim for compensation.
One of the first steps to take after a bike accident is to contact the police. You should also take pictures of the damages to your bike and any injuries you may have. If your injury is severe, you will likely need medical care.
Your health insurance should cover any medical costs associated with the bike accident. You can also purchase a personal injury protection policy. This type of insurance will pay for your medical expenses, but only if you are injured while in an uninsured or underinsured driver’s vehicle.
If you are able to prove that the other party was negligent, you may be able to get compensation. In addition to the financial losses, you may be able to recover non-financial costs such as emotional pain and suffering.
