Bicycle accidents are collisions between a bicycle and another vehicle, person, animal, or object. They can range from minor scrapes and bruises to more serious head, neck, and spinal cord injuries and even death. The accident’s severity often depends on the speed of the bicycle and the object it collides with. Bicycle accidents can be hazardous and can have life-altering consequences, so it is important always to wear a helmet and ride defensively. Contact an Ontario injury lawyer if you are involved in a bicycle accident.
Bicycle accidents: Causes, prevention, and what to do if you are involved
Bicycle accidents can be devastating and happen more often than you might think. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 600 bicyclists are killed, and more than 45,000 are injured each year in the United States alone. While there is no single cause of bicycle accidents, there are a few common causes that you should be aware of. In addition, there are also a few simple steps you can take to prevent bike accidents. Finally, if you are unfortunately involved in a bicycle accident, there are a few measures you should take to protect yourself and your rights.
Causes of Bicycle Accidents
There are a few common causes of bicycle accidents. These include:
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and other poor road conditions can cause cyclists to lose control of their bikes and crash.
- Reckless drivers: Drivers who don’t follow the rules of the road or who drive carelessly can cause bicycle accidents.
- Distracted cyclists: Cyclists who are distracted by their phones, music, or other distractions can be more likely to crash.
Prevention
There are a few steps cyclists can take to prevent bicycle accidents.
- Wear a helmet: Wearing a helmet can help reduce the risk of serious head injury if you have an accident.
- Stay alert: Cyclists should stay aware of their surroundings, watch for cars, and obey all traffic laws.
- Check your bike: Make sure your bike is in good condition and that it is properly maintained.
- Ride defensively: Always anticipate the worst and be prepared for any unexpected situation.
- Use lights and reflective clothing: Make sure you use lights and reflective clothing when riding at night or early in the morning.
What to Do if You Are Involved in a Bicycle Accident
If you are involved in a bicycle accident, you should take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention: If you are injured, get medical attention immediately.
- Call the police: Contact the police to report the accident and get a copy of the police report.
- Take pictures: Take pictures of the accident scene and any injuries you have.
- Get contact information: Get contact information from any witnesses and the other parties involved in the accident.
- Contact an attorney: Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to help you with your case.