Injury Prevention in Bicycle versus Car Accidents
The injuries that people could sustain in a bicycle versus car accident can be severe and sometimes deadly. Because of the lack of protection between the rider and the road, bicycle collisions involving cars are always serious and can lead to injuries that have lifelong implications. According to information that has been published by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- The most common time of day for bicycle accidents to occur is between the hours of 6 PM and 9 PM.
- About a quarter of all bicycle accidents happen on the weekends.
- Fatal bicycle collisions are more common in urban areas, with about three-quarters of them taking place in a busy city.
- Males are about 6 times more likely to be killed in a bicycle accident than females.
- Around a third of all fatal bicycle collisions involve alcohol.
- In 2016, more than 800 people were killed in a bicycle versus car accident.
Steps to Avoid a Bicycle versus Car Accident
One of the most common locations that cars and bicycles collide is at intersections. With this in mind, there are several steps that motorists should take to avoid cyclists. These include:
- Always assume that a bicycle is approaching the intersection and come to a complete stop.
- Be aware that bicycles are much smaller than cars and are more challenging to see.
- If turning right, always look to the right to see if a bicycle is approaching on the shoulder.
- If passing a bicycle, always allow at least three feet of space between the car and the rider.
- When opening a car door, always open it with the right hand because it forces the driver to look backward for a cyclist.
These simple tips can go a long way in preventing serious collisions between cyclists and motor vehicles.
Safety First in the Bicycle
There are several tips that cyclists should take to avoid injuries in a bicycle versus car accidents as well. Some of these are:
- Always wear brightly colored clothing to make it easier for cars to see.
- Never bike without a helmet as these are crucial in preventing traumatic brain injuries.
- Ensure that the bike is properly maintained so that the chain is oiled, the brakes work, and the tires are inflated.
- Use a headlight when riding at night.
- Do not pass on the right or on the sidewalk because it is challenging for cars to see the bike.
Watch YouTube Video: Bike Safety. Sharing the Road. Bicyclists have the same rights as motorists. This video provides tips on how cyclists and motorists can share the road to prevent accidents.
Contacting an Auto Accident Attorney
When cyclists are struck by a car, they could sustain serious injuries that require a trip to the hospital. Some of these traumatic injuries might even require surgery. During this stressful time, families need to know that help is available. By meeting with a car accident lawyer, families can discuss all of their options. Some of the help they could receive include:
- Access to reconstruction professionals who can recreate what happened at the scene.
- Help in pursuing damages related to the accident, its injuries, and any complications.
- Moving a case to trial when needed.
Families need to know that help is always available. Speak with a Sacramento car accident lawyer. You could be owed a financial reward.
Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer. It is critical for every driver to watch for cyclists on the road because bicycle versus car accidents are always severe. If your loved one was injured in a bicycle accident, please contact me today at (800) 404-5400 or (916) 921-6400 for free, friendly legal advice.
I am honored to be an attorney in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and in the Top One Percent, a National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
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