Learn answers to frequently asked questions about bicycle accidents, with the Green Law Firm, P.C. Bicycle Accident FAQ.
Over the last two decades, bicycle commuting has become the third most popular form of commuting, according to a recent report from Bike Adviser. Indeed, bicycles are a fun, healthy and environmentally friendly way to commute, that more and more people are enjoying the benefits of.
But more cyclists on the road unfortunately means there will most likely be more bicycle accidents, so if you are a bicycle commuter, it’s important to have some basic information about these types of accidents.
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident due to the negligent actions of another person, contact our Colorado Springs bicycle accident lawyers today to get experienced help.
Frequently Asked Question After a Bicycle Accident
In 2015, 467,000 people were sent to the emergency room in the United States due to a bicycle accident. Most of these injuries were severe, as bicyclists are not afforded the same protection those inside an automobile are. The at-fault driver has a seat belt, airbag, and an entire metal and glass structure, which shields them from severe injury in a relatively minor accident, while a bicyclist has none of these.
Bicycle accidents are commonly caused by a number of factors, including the following:
– Drivers who are driving while impaired;
– Drivers who are distracted while driving;
– Drivers who fail to see the bicyclist or fail to yield the right-of-way;
– Drivers who make improper turns;
– Drivers who attempt to pass bicyclists in too-narrow lanes;
– Drivers who back out of driveways and parking lots without looking for smaller pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists, and
– Drivers who park and open their door without looking for a bicyclist.
One of the most common types of injuries resulting from a bicycle accident is a head injury. This is due to the fact that bicyclists are often thrown over the handlebars, with little control over how they land. Of course helmet use can help reduce the incidence of serious brain trauma from a bicycle accident. Head injuries can come in the form of bumps, bruises, scrapes, gashes, and fractures. Spinal cord injuries, burns, abrasions, fractures, and internal organ damage are other common injuries that occur in a bicycling accident.
Bicycle accidents are handled in the same way as car accidents, particularly when an automobile is the other vehicle involved. Never, ever leave the scene of the accident. If you are able, exchange information with the other driver. Go to the ER to be checked out for injury. If you can, take photographs of the scene of the accident, get witness statements and write down every single detail you can remember about the accident. All of these things could be crucial later on in your case against a negligent driver.
If you are injured by a driver who flees the scene of the accident, call the police immediately, or have someone call for you. Under no circumstances should you leave the scene of the accident until the police arrive. Don’t move anything that could potentially be used as evidence. As soon as you are able, consult with an attorney who can work to protect your rights and your future.
