How to Stay Safe While Bicycling
Bicycling is an excellent way to travel. It is eco-friendly and great for physical and mental health. Unfortunately, it can also be dangerous. According to statistics, bicycle accidents are very common. In fact, nearly 1,000 bicyclists die every year in crashes in the United States. More than 130,000 are severely injured, that’s why it is crucial to practice safety.
Despite safety measures, sometimes accidents do happen. If your bicycle accident has occurred due to the negligence of a motorist, you may be able to file a personal injury claim or a lawsuit to pursue compensation. Read on to learn the causes of bicycle accidents, the most common injuries that result from them, how to stay safe, and what to do if you have an accident.
Typical Causes and Scenarios of Bicycle Accidents
The majority of bicycle accidents share certain similarities in causes and circumstances. The most common being the following:
- Speeding
- Distractions
- Dangerous maneuvers
- Intersection collisions
- Unexpected reversals
- Merging and lane changes
- Open-door accidents
- Left-hand turn accidents
Common Injuries Sustained in a Bicycle Accident
Compared to other vehicles, bicycles don’t offer the same range of safety features. Because of this, the injuries sustained in a bicycle accident are quite severe and the most common of those include:
- Arm, rib, and leg fractures
- Broken bones
- Organ injuries
- Closed-head injuries and concussions
- Internal bleeding
- Contusions and severe abrasions
- Spinal injuries
How to Stay Safe on the Road
Here are some guidelines you should follow to ensure safety when cycling on the road:
- Always wear proper attire and a good safety helmet
- Comply with all road signs and traffic lights, indicate using arm signals before you turn, and drive on the right-hand side of the road AND NOT facing oncoming traffic
- Wear bright clothes and use lights when cycling at night
- Be mindful when cycling around parked vehicles
- Stay alert and avoid distracted driving
- Inspect your bicycle on a regular basis to ensure it is working properly
What to Do if You Have an Accident
Even if you are careful and follow all safety guidelines, road accidents may still occur. If you have an accident, take the following steps:
- Get medical attention
- Cooperate with law enforcement officers
- Talk to witnesses and write down their contain details
- Don’t sign any kind of “release” of claims form
- Seek professional legal help
Expected Compensation
At the end of a successful personal injury claim/lawsuit, you can expect to receive the following bicycle accident compensation:
- Medical costs
- Pain and suffering
- Damage to personal property
- Emotional distress
- Decreased enjoyment of life
- Lost wages
- Decreased long-term earning capacity
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland & D.C. Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents Lawyers
Bicycle accidents are unfortunately very common and the injuries sustained in such accidents can be quite severe. Because of this, following proper safety guidelines is crucial. If your bicycle accident occurred due to someone else’s negligence, know that you can pursue compensation. At Hilton & Somer, LLC, our team of bicycle accident attorneys can help. We will thoroughly evaluate your case to determine legal lability. Contact us today by dialing 703-560-0700 or via our online contact form to learn more about your options. We offer free initial consultation.
References
https://www.cdc.gov/transportationsafety/bicycle/index.html
https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/bicycle-safety
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