Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents Involving Vehicles

Many bicycle accidents on public roads can happen because of various factors that other drivers often influence. Whether you use your bicycle for your daily commute, exercise, or just for fun, the harsh reality is that you face many risks every time you ride. Cyclists are entitled to similar rights, responsibilities, and privileges as drivers. However, many drivers do not treat cyclists the same way they would treat other vehicles on the road. 

For cyclists injured in an accident, seeking financial compensation can be a crucial step in their recovery. Bicycle accidents can be especially traumatic as you’re not as protected as you would be if you were in another car. That means recovery from a collision can be expensive and challenging. Fortunately, our team of experienced injury lawyers at James H. Brown and Associates is here to help! Below we’ll discuss why it’s essential to determine the cause of your bicycle accident, some common causes of these collisions, and how James H. Brown and Associates can help you with your personal injury claim. Continue reading to find out more!

Why Determining the Cause of an Accident is Essential

To seek compensation and justice, you’ll need to find out the cause of your bicycle accident. Hiring a personal injury lawyer from James H. Brown and Associates can assist you in conducting an accident investigation as soon as possible. Understanding the cause of the accident means we’ll be able to hold the driver accountable and prove that they were negligent in causing the collision. To file a successful injury claim, you must demonstrate that the driver was responsible for your losses.

So, how do you prove that the driver who collided with you was negligent? Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include:

Distracted, Impaired, or Fatigued Driving

Distracted and impaired driving is a leading cause of vehicle collisions, and bicycle accidents are not immune to this. When drivers are preoccupied with things other than their surroundings, they’re significantly more likely to cause a disastrous collision. The same can be said for drivers who get behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Driving while intoxicated puts everyone at risk as it impairs your ability to make intelligent decisions and react to things on the road. While driving while fatigued may not seem as risky as driving while under the influence or distracted, the risks are still much the same. Far too many cyclists become victims of collisions because drivers decide to get behind the wheel when they cannot adequately control their vehicles. 

Speeding

Speed limits exist for a good reason. When a driver speeds, it increases the time it takes to come to a complete stop and reduces the time the driver has to react to things and people on the road. High-speed collisions are more likely to cause severe or life-threatening injuries. However, accidents at lower speeds (like in residential zones) can still be hazardous for cyclists. 

Weaving Through Traffic and Unsafe Lane Changes

Weaving in and out of traffic and haphazardly changing lanes is dangerous for drivers and cyclists. Drivers are less likely to be able to make evasive maneuvers and can drift outside of traffic lanes and into bike lanes or shoulders. A single unsafe lane change can result in disaster for cyclists; that’s why it’s vital to shoulder check before changing lanes and avoid weaving through traffic. 

Failing to Yield, Stop, or Look Before Turning

From roundabouts to intersections, crosswalks and more, failing to stop, yield and look can result in entirely avoidable accidents. Drivers must check for cyclists and pedestrians before turning or continuing down the road. Failing to watch out for cyclists who have the right of way can magnify the severity of these collisions, as cyclists and pedestrians are particularly vulnerable. Regardless of what neighbourhood or intersection a driver is navigating, these crashes are avoidable by paying extra attention to your surroundings. 

Failing to Leave Space

Following too closely or passing too near the bicycle or vehicle in front of you creates an unnecessarily dangerous situation. By failing to leave space for the cyclist in front of you, drivers are more likely to collide with the cyclist and leave them with fewer options for evasive maneuvers. So, just as you would for another car, give cyclists a few feet of space. 

Regardless of how an accident occurred, if you or a loved one were seriously injured in a bicycle accident, you must seek medical attention immediately. Afterwards, speak with a trusted personal injury lawyer, like James H. Brown and Associates, as soon as possible. 

Get Help from the Heavy Hitters of Personal Injury Law

Bicycle accidents are hazardous and highly traumatic events. Whether you or a loved one has been injured, navigating your rights to justice and compensation can be overwhelming, especially after a life-altering injury. Fortunately, James H. Brown and Associates is here to help you through every step of your injury claim. From advancing your claim to attaining justice and managing care and treatment, our expert lawyers are here to ensure you get the compensation you’re entitled to. No two bicycle accidents are the same; that’s why James H. Brown and Associates offers a comprehensive range of services for victims. 

Are you interested in learning more about how our injury lawyers can get you the justice you and your family deserve? Contact James H. Brown and Associates to set up your free, no-obligation consultation today!