Fontana Bicycle Accident Lawyer
To Avoid Collisions And Injuries, Cyclists Need To Always Ride Defensively
As the amount of cyclists increases, the number of accidents involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like many other car accidents, a number of them occur at intersections.
A number of these collisions are the result of motorists that appear to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roads. They fail to look out for cyclists when making turns or moving through intersections.
These types of collisions are worsened by excessively large and busy intersections. Furthermore, bicyclists are put at risk by rapidly changing traffic signals that might turn red before they fully cross the intersection.
What Are The Most Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents?
Several of the most common causes of bicycle crashes involve:
Motorists Failing To Yield To Bicyclists In Intersections
Some motorists might not be familiar with the rules of the road when dealing with bicyclists sharing the street. This lack of awareness can be particularly hazardous when a cyclist and a vehicle are sharing the road while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for vehicles and bicyclists. Intersections are one of the main areas where accidents resulting in devastating injuries happen.
A Driver Failing To Observe Cyclists On The Road
Motorists not seeing a bicyclist on the road is a common reason for a collision involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists should take precautions to minimize this very preventable cause of bike collisions.
Cyclists can use safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored clothing to help reduce the possibility of an accident. Similarly, drivers should know that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers need to be especially careful at intersections, near bike lanes, and in locations with a large number of bike commuters.
Motorists Encroaching Into Bike Lanes
Even while riding within the confines of a bike lane, bicyclists need to be alert at all times for distracted and negligent drivers. Vehicles can unintentionally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after only a few seconds of inattention. This can potentially cause a bicyclist to suffer serious 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 major danger to bicyclists, particularly in urban environments. These incidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can cause devastating injuries like brain injuries, neck and back injuries, facial damage, and long-lasting pain and suffering. Practicing defensive riding techniques is the most effective way for a cyclist to prevent being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted Motorists Hitting A Bicyclist
Distracted driving is one of the biggest problems for road safety that we experience today. As smartphones have become a major part of our daily lives, many people find it difficult to set down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a danger to other vehicles. However they are even more dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians since they have almost zero protection if they are struck. Someone who is distracted by texting, eating, or a multitude of other things may veer into bike lanes. Also, they may not notice a bicyclist 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 cause of bicycle collisions involving automobiles.
Motorists Failing 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 completely check their surroundings, it can lead to serious 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 starting to lessen these kinds of collisions. But drivers can not depend on these technologies instead of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.
How Can I Avoid A Bike Accident?
Following appropriate safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Fontana is the most effective way to avoid accidents and injuries. When moving in traffic, bicyclists should do the following:
- Follow the rules of the road
- Assume that vehicles and drivers will fail to see you
- Provide cars a wide berth
- Regularly yield to automobiles under certain conditions when you don't know if a motorist has spotted you
- You should have proper safety gear
How Can I Protect Myself In A Bicycle Accident?
- Use a properly-fitting helmet
- Wear bright or reflective clothing
- Use a bike light, reflectors, and reflective tape
- Comply with all posted traffic laws
- Trip with the flow of traffic
- Use bike lanes whenever possible
- Make sure your bicycle is in good working condition
- Remain alert at all times and avoid distracted riding
What Should I Do After A Bicycle Accident?
If you get hurt in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:
- Call 911 and file a police report. Do not let a driver talk you into not making a police report. That can lead to issues later on.
- Exchange information with the motorist that hit you. Photograph of his or her driver's license and insurance card.
- Take several pictures of your bike, the car that hit you, and the scene of the accident.
- Obtain witness information from anybody that happened to see the accident. Do not bypass this step, as police officers don't always record witness info and you may need it later.
- If needed, get medical attention right away.
- Get in touch with a knowledgeable bike accident attorney in Fontana. Do this prior to calling the other party's insurance company.
Contact A Fontana Bicycle Accident Lawyer At First Law Group
If you sustain an injury in a collision with an automobile while riding your bicycle, or somebody you love has been tragically killed, you should consult with a knowledgeable bicycle accident attorney immediately. They will help figure out whether you may have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent driver.
At First Law Group, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers assist cyclists in seeking cases against negligent motorists who have caused major injuries. We know how to collect all of the compensation you deserve for your injuries, whether that means filing a lawsuit or pursuing a remedy using other means.
At First Law Group, we really care about our community and we are driven by our passion for clients. Our personal injury lawyers in Fontana, California are always available to take your call. For a Free Consultation, call us at (626) 888-8264, or visit our website: FirstLG.com
