5 Important Things to Do After a Bicycle Accident!
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Bicycle accidents are a common occurrence, and they can happen to anyone who rides a bike, whether for commuting, exercise, or recreation.
In this blog post, we will discuss the most common ways that bicycle accidents happen, and what to do if you are involved in a bicycle accident.
Most Common Ways Bicycle Accidents Happen:
Vehicle Collisions: Collisions with motor vehicles are one of the most common ways that bicycle accidents happen. They occur when a vehicle driver fails to notice a bicyclist or does not follow the road rules. Some common causes of vehicle collisions include distracted driving, failure to yield, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Dooring Accidents: Dooring accidents occur when a driver or passenger of a parked vehicle opens their door into the path of an oncoming bicyclist, causing a collision. These accidents are especially common in urban areas where parking is scarce, and drivers and passengers may be in a hurry to exit their vehicle.
Road Hazards: Bicycles are more vulnerable than cars or motorcycles to road hazards, such as potholes, debris, or uneven pavement. These hazards can cause a bicyclist to lose control and crash, or to collide with another vehicle.
Riding in the Wrong Direction: Riding in the wrong direction on a bike lane or street can cause a collision with a car or another bicyclist.It can also work to confuse other drivers and pedestrians who are not expecting a bicyclist to be coming from that direction.
Riding at Night Without Proper Lighting: Bicyclists who ride at night without proper lighting are more likely to be involved in accidents with vehicles and other obstacles. Without adequate lighting, bicyclists are difficult to see and may not be able to react in time to avoid a collision.
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, make sure to report the accident to the police, even if the injuries seem minor. A police report can provide important evidence if you need to pursue a claim or lawsuit.
Bicycle Accident Statistics & Information (2017-2023)
Between 2017 and 2021, according to data from the League of American Bicyclists via the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were an average of 2.7 fatal bicycle crashes for every million U.S. residents, which marks a 5% increase compared to the period from 2012 to 2016.
Among major metro areas, New Orleans (9.9), Tucson (8.9), and Jacksonville (7.9) recorded the highest rates of fatal accidents per million residents.
The rise in bicycle use during the COVID-19 pandemic prompted many cities to take action by implementing new bike lanes and adopting other safety measures to protect riders and promote cycling.
These projects have gained significance as bike-sharing platforms like Citi Bike NYC and Chicago’s Divvy Bikes have become popular options for short-distance travel within cities across the country.
Cycling is associated with numerous benefits for urban residents, such as improved air quality and better public health.
Notably, Seattle, Portland, and Bethesda, Maryland, have been recognized by the advocacy group PeopleForBikes for their outstanding new bike lane initiatives.
In an innovative effort to improve connectivity between neighboring cities, Jersey City and Hoboken in New Jersey have embarked on a project, despite historical challenges, to enhance their well-established internal bike lane networks.
Cities are not only dealing with increased traditional bicycle usage but also a surge in e-bike utilization by residents, tourists, and delivery workers. The question arises as to how to integrate pedal-assist e-bikes, which are faster, into the existing infrastructure—whether they should share bike lanes with slower traditional bicycles or coexist with cars and trucks in the vehicle lanes.
However, the implementation of protected bike lanes and other safety measures often faces opposition from urban drivers who express concerns about the reduction of traffic lanes or parking spaces.
Looking ahead, cities across the nation are seeking state and federal funding, including funds allocated through the 2021 infrastructure law, to further develop their cycling infrastructure, including bike trail networks.
As of the current year, 2023, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has recorded a total of 550 bicycle accidents, resulting in 15 fatalities and numerous injuries to riders.
Moreover, an alarming number of 10 cyclists have tragically lost their lives in New York City since the beginning of this year. This death toll is the highest recorded for this time period in at least a decade, marking a five-fold increase compared to the previous year of 2022, as reported by the Department of Transportation.
5 Things to Do After Being Involved in a Bicycle Accident:
Seek Medical Attention: The first and most important thing to do after a bicycle accident is to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying medical treatment can worsen the condition.
Document the Accident Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene and gather contact information from any witnesses. This documentation can be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
Report the Accident: Report the accident to the police, even if the injuries seem minor. A police report can provide important evidence if you need to pursue a claim or lawsuit.
Contact an Attorney: Contact an experienced personal injury attorney who has experience in bicycle accidents. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Follow Through with Medical Treatment: Be sure to follow through with all medical treatment, including follow-up appointments and physical therapy. Failing to do so may harm your health and your case. Bicycle accidents are a common occurrence and can happen to anyone who rides a bike.
If you are involved in a bicycle accident, it is important to seek medical attention, document the accident scene, report the accident, contact an attorney, and follow through with medical treatment.
By taking these steps, you can protect both your health and your legal rights.
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