Riding your bike should be a time of enjoyment, whether it’s for exercise, environmental benefits or another reason. While bikes are an efficient and often inexpensive way to get from one place to another, there’s usually a risk the cyclist could be involved in an accident. A person on a bike is vulnerable to the impact of a moving vehicle, and these types of incidents often result in serious injuries.
Facts about bike-related vehicle accidents
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 130,000 people suffer injuries in bike accidents each year, and around 1,000 cyclists die in these types of crashes. The costs associated with bike-related vehicle accidents can be extensive as injured cyclists often struggle with impacts that relate to medical needs, ongoing care and their ability to live and work as normal after the accident.
Most bicycle accident fatalities happen in urban areas, which is not surprising as there is more traffic in densely populated regions. Some drivers do not know how to safely share the road with bikes, and their reckless behaviors may cause preventable accidents. Helmets, protective gear and other measures can help reduce the chance of serious injuries, but drivers have the responsibility of being vigilant and cautious around bikes.
After a bike accident
After a bicycle accident, the injured cyclist may have a difficult time knowing how to pick up the pieces and move forward. It can be helpful to seek the support and guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney to understand the legal options available. With this help, it may be possible to hold the responsible party accountable and secure appropriate compensation.
