Top 5 Causes of Bicycle Accidents and How to Avoid Them

We all know that a bicycle is one of the most environmentally friendly forms of transportation. However, these days, accidents involving bikers have increased significantly. And this brings me to today’s topic: Causes of bicycle accidents!

But don’t we all know the reason?

Yes, most of us do. However, the common reasons that are going through your mind right now are not the only ones.

You see, for instance, more bikers sharing the road with cars increases the risk of serious collisions. And that’s something that probably you didn’t think of!

An abrupt bicycle accident may leave a victim permanently injured and scarred. Should someone else’s carelessness cause your bicycle accident, you should be aware that you can be entitled to bicycle accident compensation.

Out of the 42,514 US road accident deaths projected for 2022, 2.6% were bikers. The absolute and percentage statistics are the highest in the recent decade.

But why is it so? What are the major causes of bicycle accidents recently?

Hi. In today’s blog, this is exactly what I will be talking about. So, next time you enjoy riding your bike on city or highway streets, you will feel safer if you learn about the most frequent crash types and ways of avoiding them.

Keep in mind that there is no law that dictates riders to wear a helmet in the US but still, it is wise to do so. These are the common types of bike crashes and measures you can take to prevent these.

Keep on reading this blog till the end, and thank me later…

What are the Major Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

Over the years, bikes have been in a number of accidents that have killed or seriously hurt people. The most popular reasons why bicycle crashes happen are:

Speeding

One major reason bicycle crashes happen is speeding. When drivers of cars and trucks don’t follow the speed rules, bicyclists can be killed or seriously injured by those vehicles.

It is more likely that a driver won’t be able to stop in time to avoid an accident if the car is going fast.

Driving While Distracted

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that in 2023 distracted driving killed 3,275 victims.

Someone who is driving or riding in a car or walking when they are conversing on the phone or texting, may get into bicycle accidents.

If a driver is texting or if he or she is talking on the phone, they could not be focused on what is going on around them. They may not be able to notice the presence of bikers on the road near them.

Cutting Through Traffic

Drivers weaving through traffic also raise the risk of a bicycle crash and are a regular cause of them.

People who change lanes improperly on roads with a lot of traffic can hit bikers when they swerve from car lanes to bike paths.

Turning Around Without Looking

Bicyclists can also get hit by cars that are moving. Many crashes happen at intersections where drivers fail to see the bicycle.

To avoid this, always pay attention to what’s going on around you when you change lines or turn in traffic.

If you happen to be hit by a car in a crosswalk, finding out how much a car accident lawyer costs will not be unreasonable, as well as seeking help. 

Not Caring About The Red Light

Individuals often ignore crossing stoplights because they are in a hurry or are preoccupied with their phones. Accidents happen when this signal is ignored.

Stop at the red light and wait for it to turn green before going on your way to avoid bike crashes.

Rules to Follow to Avoid Bike Crashes

Now that you are aware of the primary causes of bicycle accidents, it is time for you to learn something important. And what’s that?

Well, it’s about how you can avoid these accidents by following certain rules. Here’s what you need to know:

Bike Size

Make sure the bike you are riding is of a proper size. When cycling, the correct sizing not only puts you in the safest and best position for your body but also prevents crashes.

When you are resolving to choose the size of your bike, making sure that you factor in your height and size of the body are the things that should click in your mind.

Without these precautions, it is impossible to find a bike of the right size on an online platform.

Check the Brakes

Next thing is to make a check on the brakes. Yes, you need to make sure they are functioning correctly so that you can be safe!

Before riding, it is important to see if your brakes are working well and the best way of doing it is by using them.

Keep your bike in good condition to prevent crashes and injuries. If your brakes are distracting you, then see to it that you mend them before using the bicycle.

Hand Signals

If you are turning or changing lanes, use hand signals. Remind yourself that a clear hand signal is much appreciated by drivers because it gives them an idea of what you are going to do next.

In the event of a biking accident, you will be able to claim compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain, and both mental and emotional suffering, among other damages.

Can Bicycle Accident Lawyers Help?

Yes, absolutely! A bicycle accident lawyer can be of great help when it comes to these accidents.

“But do I need a lawyer?”

Umm… Yes, you do! Because ultimately, when you are involved in an accident, you will obviously need to deal with the injury.

And dealing with injuries means having a financial impact. In turn, that’s something that brings into the idea of getting compensation.

Here’s how a bicycle accident lawyer can help you legally:

• Investigation of the accident.
• Gathering and preservation of evidence.
• Negotiation with the insurance companies.
• Representing you legally.
• Claiming valuation for the accident.
• Contacting expert witnesses.

Know Your Rights and Take All Necessary Safety Measures

In conclusion, people get involved in accidents even when they are careful. It is critical to know your rider’s rights when they do. The bicycle safety rules in the US cater to the riders as vulnerable road users.

If someone else’s carelessness, a dangerous road, or another cause of risk injured you, you may be in line for compensation.

If you were searching about what the major causes of bicycle accidents are, then I hope that this blog has been of help to you. However, if there are any other questions related to the legal aspects of such cases, please feel free to share your thoughts!

Read Also:

• Legal Considerations for Pedestrians and Cyclists Injured in California Car Accidents
• The Most Dangerous Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents
• Who Pays Damages in a Hit-and-Run?