Cycling is an effective way of moving from one point to another or even a fun way of spending your leisure time. However, it can also be dangerous, especially when one gets hit by a car. Apart from being hit by cars or trucks, other causes of bicycle accidents include hitting an object and mechanical issues. As a cyclist, it is crucial to understand the causes of bicycle accidents to take the necessary actions, including getting legal services.
Inattentive Riding & Driving
Just like drivers, bicyclists can also get distracted by various things, like using their phones. This dives away their attention as their mind gets engaged in other activities. A divided mind is a common recipe for accidents among road users. Although you may be attentive while cycling, inattentive cycling from other drivers and riders can also endanger your life.
Speeding
Although it is not usually possible to attain the speed of cars while cycling, you don’t have to ride as fast as you can. According to bicycle accident lawyers, speeding is a common cause of accidents for road users. Factors determining a safe speed include the road’s condition, the number of other motorists, and the weather condition.
Impaired Driving
People who drive under the influence of alcohol or other drugs pose a great danger to themselves and other people using the road. Drugs and alcohol impair a motorist’s judgment, leading to many accidents. Apart from the aspect of causing accidents, driving while impaired is illegal.
Careless Lane Changes
It is crucial to pay attention to other motorists when changing a lane, since a sudden or careless lane change can endanger you. Many bicycle accidents that happen today due to lane changes are caused when cars merge into cyclists’ paths, and drivers fail to check whether the road is clear.
Cycling In Areas Like Sidewalks, Parking Lots, & Driveways
Since driveways, parking lots, and sidewalks tend to be narrower than normal roads, the chances of avoiding an accident while cycling in such areas are minimal. Cycling in such places needs a proactive approach, and one must be extra cautious to predict what may occur.
Passing A Red Light Or A Stop Sign
Many intersection accidents take place when motorists ignore stop signs and lights. Apart from ignoring a road light or sign being risky, the dangers of bicycle injuries are usually intensified when motorists don’t look for bicycle riders who have the right of way.
Dooring Scenarios
These are accidents caused when a motorist stops to open their car’s door without checking whether the road is clear. Speeding cyclists usually lack sufficient time to react to such situations, making them collide with the open car door. The result of such accidents for cyclists can be severe or even fatal.
Weaving Through Traffic
Motorists weaving through traffic may fail to notice cyclists using the same road. Such drivers may also find it difficult to do evasive maneuvers that can help them avoid a collision. Since weaving drivers are likely to drift onto bicycle lanes or outside traffic lanes, the chances of hitting a bicycle are usually high.
Driver Fatigue
Driving when tired is equally dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Fatigue is usually common among people who fail to get sufficient sleep, those trying to get home after work, and when someone drives for long hours. Fatigue affects the state of mind or causes sleep, increasing the chances of getting involved in an accident.
Regardless of the cause of the accident, seeking legal services from a personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you need and deserve for your injuries. Getting compensated can also help you deal with medical bills and losses incurred.