Glendora Bicycle Accident Lawyer
To Prevent Collisions And Injuries, Cyclists Need To Always Ride Defensively
As the amount of bicyclists grows, the number of collisions involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like a lot of other car accidents, a large 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 for cyclists when making turns or moving through intersections.
These types of collisions are worsened by overly large and busy intersections. Additionally, bicyclists are put at risk by rapidly changing traffic signals that might turn red before they completely cross the intersection.
What Are The Most Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents?
Several of the most common causes of bicycle crashes involve:
Drivers 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 road. This lack of knowledge can be especially dangerous when a bicyclist and a car are sharing the road while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are among the most dangerous areas for vehicles and cyclists. Intersections are one of the major areas where accidents leading to devastating injuries occur.
A Motorist Failing To Observe Cyclists When Driving
Motorists not seeing a cyclist when driving is a common reason for a crash involving a bicycle. Both drivers and bicyclists must take preventative measures to reduce this very avoidable cause of bike collisions.
Cyclists can use safety devices like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored clothing to help reduce the possibility of an accident. Likewise, drivers need to know that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers should be particularly cautious at intersections, near bike lanes, and in locations with a lot of bike commuters.
Motorists Encroaching Into Bike Lanes
Even while riding within the boundaries of a bike lane, bicyclists must be alert at all times for distracted and reckless motorists. Vehicles can inadvertently or intentionally drift into a bike lane after just a few seconds of distraction. This can possibly 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 threat to cyclists, particularly in urban settings. These accidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can cause catastrophic injuries like brain injuries, neck and back injuries, facial damage, and long-lasting pain and suffering. Engaging in defensive riding techniques is the most effective way for a bicyclist to avoid being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted Drivers Hitting A Bicyclist
Distracted driving is one of the most significant problems for road safety that we face today. As cell phones have become a major part of our daily lives, many people find it difficult to put down their phones even while driving. Distracted motorists are clearly a risk to other vehicles. But they are even more dangerous to cyclists and pedestrians because they have practically zero protection if they are hit. Somebody that is distracted by texting, eating, or a myriad of other things might divert into bike lanes. Likewise, they may not notice a bicyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a bicyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big problem that it's been identified as the leading cause of bicycle crashes involving motor vehicles.
Motorists Failing To Yield To Bicyclists While Pulling In And Out Of Driveways Or Parking Lots
When a motorist that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not completely check their surroundings, it can lead to major repercussions for pedestrians and bicyclists. Bicyclists 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 minimize these types of accidents. However drivers can not rely 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 Glendora is the best way to prevent collisions and injuries. When moving in traffic, bicyclists need to do the following:
- Obey the rules of the road
- Assume that vehicles and motorists will fail to see you
- Provide cars a wide berth
- Occasionally yield to cars under certain conditions when you do not 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 apparel
- Use a bike light, reflectors, and reflective tape
- Follow all posted traffic laws
- Trip with the circulation 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 injured in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:
- Call 911 and make a police report. Do not let a motorist talk you into not making a police report. That can lead to issues later.
- Exchange information with the driver that hit you. Photograph of their driver's license and insurance policy card.
- Take multiple photos of your bike, the car that hit you, and the scene of the crash.
- Obtain witness information from anyone that happened to see the accident. Do not skip this step, as authorities do not always record witness information and you could need it later on.
- If needed, seek medical attention right away.
- Consult with a knowledgeable bike accident lawyer in Glendora. Do this before calling the other party's insurance provider.
Contact A Glendora Bicycle Accident Lawyer At First Law Group
If you suffer an injury in an accident with an automobile while riding your bicycle, or somebody you love has been tragically killed, you need to speak with a qualified bicycle accident attorney right away. They will help determine whether you may have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death case against a negligent motorist.
At First Law Group, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers assist cyclists in seeking claims against negligent drivers that have caused serious injuries. We understand how to collect all of the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, whether that means filing a lawsuit or pursuing a remedy through 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 Glendora, California are always available to take your call. For a Free Consultation, call us at (626) 888-8264, or visit our website: FirstLG.com
