Bicycling is a popular activity that has seen a boom over the past few years. And although cities are constructing more bike lanes and trails, motor vehicle accidents involving bicyclists are on the rise. Fortunately, there are ways motorists can safely share the road with bicyclists.
The rise in bicycle accidents
Bicycle accidents are on the rise for numerous reasons. Driver negligence, such as speeding or breaking traffic laws certainly accounts for a significant number of bicycle accidents. Roads not designed to prioritize bicyclists also expose bicyclists to unsafe riding conditions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that in 2020, 938 bicyclists lost their lives after being struck by a car. Most bicycle fatalities took place between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Also, urban areas saw significantly more fatal bicycle fatalities than rural areas.
Share the road with bicyclists
Motorists can safely share the road with bicyclists in several ways. First, they can practice bicycle awareness, meaning they are always looking out for bicyclists in their vicinity. Motorists should yield to a bicyclist’s right of way.
If a motorist wants to pass a bicyclist, they should make sure there is plenty of space between them and the bicyclist. Pass when you are able to safely move into the next lane.
Motorists should avoid executing a turn in front of a bicyclist without first looking left-right-left, especially at intersections. Motorists should always follow traffic laws. This means avoiding speeding, distracted driving and drunk driving.
What can you do if you are injured in a bicycle accident?
You have options if you are struck by a car while bicycling. One option you may want to learn more about is the possibility of pursuing a personal injury lawsuit. These negligent-based claims can help you seek the compensation you deserve to cover the many expenses the crash caused.
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