The Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents occur for several reasons, but they are extremely dangerous as cyclists don’t have many safety precautions in place, so when they are involved in an accident, they are exposed to severe risk. If you have been in a bicycle accident, our bicycle accident lawyers are here to help.

If you are bicycling, it is extremely important to wear a helmet as well as safe attire that will not impede on your ability to ride your bike. While many bicycle accidents are not the fault of the bike rider, it is crucial that you are aware of your surroundings while driving and drive your bike defensively. Cyclist deaths have continued to increase so it is important to be alert and aware when you are riding your bike.

Distracted Driving

Similar to most accidents, distracted driving is the leading contributor to all types of vehicle collisions, from cars to trucks and motorcycles and bikes. When drivers are distracted, they are susceptible to endangering others surrounding them by acting negligently. Distracted driving comes in many forms, from texting and driving, talking on the phone, trying to navigate a route, or even talking to others in the car.

Failing to Leave Proper Space

One reason that causes bicycle accidents far too often is when drivers fail to leave an adequate buffer space between their vehicle and a bicyclist. Vehicles are required to leave a 3-foot gap when passing a cyclist. When they do not, they are endangering bicyclists on the road and limiting their ability to cycle safely.

Making a Turn Without Checking Surroundings

Whether a vehicle driver is turning at an intersection with a light, or changing lanes in the road, they still need to check to see if there are cyclists or pedestrians. Cyclists that are on side streets or crossing the street are easily overlooked and it has led to preventable accidents. When drivers change lanes, they need to account for not only checking to see if there is another car around them but if there is a bike.

Impaired Driving

Impaired driving will increase the likelihood of creating any type of accident. When drivers have been drinking or taking drugs before driving, they are negligently endangering all others on the road. Impaired drivers are unable to make responsible decisions or react to other vehicles and cyclists around them. They are unable to take safe actions and respond accordingly to others on the road with them.

Contact VB Attorneys. We are here to help.

At VB Attorneys, we experienced bicycle accident lawyers and we respect our clients. We understand the difficulty that you face when you have been involved in an accident. We will work with you to hold the negligent party accountable and advise you on the next steps that you need to take. Contact our experienced lawyers for help today. We will fight for your rights.