Cycling and the Law: More Bicyclists Lead to Higher Injury Rates

While bicycling is a great way to get fit and save money on gas, it does not come without risk. IIHS states that bicycle accidents have increased 36 percent since reaching their lowest point in 2010. This rise in biking accidents is most likely due to the fact that more American adults are now bicycling, as indicated in this bicycle trend research by John Pucher.

In a comparison of data from years 1998 and 1999 to 2012 and 2013, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission found that bike injuries occurring in people over the age of 45 increased from 23% to 42%. Hospitalizations of this age group caused by bike injuries increased from 39% to 65%. The study also found that a majority of these injuries were sustained by men.

 As a bicyclist, obeying these traffic laws may protect you from an accident:

• A helmet must be worn by bicyclists under the age of 16.
• Cyclists must travel in the right lane, except when preparing for a left turn or passing another vehicle.
• Bikes are considered vehicles; therefore, you may not bicycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• You must yield to traffic in the intersection.
• You must signal an intention to turn.
• If the lane is wide enough to share with another vehicle, ride 3 feet to the right of traffic; if the lane is not wide enough to share, you may “take the lane” by riding in the middle.

In the event of an accident, a bicyclist’s claim for personal injuries may raise questions about who was actually at fault. Considerations include:

• Who had the right-of-way?
• Was the bicyclist making a proper turn?
• What were the weather and lighting conditions like on the day of the accident?
• Were the vehicle’s headlights on?
• How fast was the vehicle traveling?

If you or your child are injured in a bicycle accident, an experienced Kelly & West attorney can assist you in pursuing your claim for any injuries or losses, including medical bills, lost wages, emotional and physical pain and suffering, and permanent injury. It’s critical that you speak to your attorney first, before communicating with the other party.

We will address these injuries and handle your case or your child’s case in a professional and aggressive manner keeping you informed of progress along the way to reach a result in which you are satisfied. In order to protect your claim, you should seek immediate medical attention after the accident and always speak to an attorney before giving any recorded or written statements.

To discuss your bicycle accident personal injury claim call us at 910-893-8183 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation.