Bicycle accident lawyer in Baldwin Park, CA
To Prevent Collisions and Injuries, Cyclists Need to Always Ride Defensively
As the amount of cyclists increases, the number of collisions involving bikes will also likely grow. And, like many other vehicle accidents, a large number of them happen at intersections.
A number of these accidents are the result of drivers who appear to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roadways. They neglect to look out for bicyclists when making turns or proceeding through intersections.
These kinds of accidents are exacerbated by excessively large and busy intersections. Furthermore, bicyclists are put at risk by quickly changing traffic signals that may turn red before they fully cross the intersection.
What are the Most Frequent Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Several of the most common causes of bicycle accidents involve:
Drivers failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections
Some drivers might not be familiar with the rules of the road when dealing with cyclists sharing the roadway. This lack of knowledge can be especially hazardous when a bicyclist and a vehicle are sharing the street while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are among the most dangerous places for cars and cyclists. Intersections are one of the main areas where crashes leading to devastating injuries occur.
A motorist failing to observe cyclists on the road
Motorists not seeing a cyclist when driving is a common cause of an accident involving a bicycle. Both drivers and bicyclists must take precautions to limit this very preventable cause of bike accidents.
Cyclists can utilize safety devices like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored apparel to help lower the possibility of a crash. Likewise, drivers must be aware that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers should be particularly careful at intersections, near bike lanes, and in areas with a large number of bike commuters.
Drivers encroaching into bike lanes
Even while riding within the confines of a bike lane, bicyclists should be alert at all times for distracted and negligent drivers. Vehicles can accidentally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after only a few seconds of distraction. This can potentially cause a cyclist to sustain significant injuries.
Bicycle doorings when a driver or passenger doesn't pay attention while opening a car door
As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a serious threat to bicyclists, particularly in urban settings. These incidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can lead to devastating injuries like brain injuries, neck and back injuries, facial damage, and long-lasting pain and suffering. Practicing defensive riding techniques is the best way for a bicyclist to prevent being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted motorists hitting a bicyclist
Distracted driving is one of the most significant problems for road safety that we experience today. As smartphones have become a huge part of our everyday lives, many people find it difficult to set down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a threat to other vehicles. But they are even more dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians because they have practically no protection if they are hit. Somebody who is distracted by texting, eating, or a myriad of other things might divert into bike lanes. Also, they may not notice a cyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a cyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big problem that it's been identified as the leading reason for bicycle collisions involving automobiles.
Motorists neglecting to yield to bicyclists while pulling in and out of driveways or parking lots
When a driver that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not fully assess their surroundings, it can lead to major consequences for pedestrians and bicyclists. Cyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while individuals are backing out due to their smaller size and their reduced noise levels. Backup cameras and sensors are beginning to reduce these types of collisions. But motorists can not depend on these technologies in place of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.
How Can I Avoid a Bike Accident?
Following proper safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Baldwin Park is the most effective way to prevent collisions and injuries. When moving in traffic, cyclists should do the following:
How Can I Protect Myself in a Bicycle Accident?
What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?
If you get injured in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:
Contact a Baldwin Park Bicycle Accident Attorney at First Law Group
If you suffer an injury in a collision with a motor vehicle while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you need to talk to a knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer right away. They will help determine whether you may have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death case against a negligent driver.
At First Law Group, our knowledgeable bicycle accident attorneys assist bicyclists in pursuing claims against negligent motorists who have caused severe injuries. We understand how to receive all of the compensation you deserve for your injuries, whether that means filing a claim or seeking a solution through other means.
At the First Law Group, the client comes first. Contact us today for a free case evaluation where we will discuss your health needs first, then get you the compensation you deserve.
