Bicycles are an environmentally friendly mode of transportation. Accidents involving bicycles can cause severe injuries and even fatalities. If a negligent driver caused your accident, you don’t have to pay for medical and other expenses out of your pocket.
Many bicycle accidents occur due to the negligence of the drivers. It is necessary to get in touch with a bicycle accident lawyer if you are involved in a bicycle accident.
In this blog post, we are going to discuss the five common types of bicycle accidents and how to avoid them.
The following are some of the more common bicycle accidents:
- Rear-end Bicycle Accidents
- Red Light Bicycle Accidents
- Riding Against Traffic
- Road Rage Accidents
- Intersection Accidents
Rear-end Bicycle Accidents
If a driver hits a cyclist from behind, it is known as a rear-end bicycle accident. This can occur if the driver is distracted by a phone or any other device. Bicycles crashing into the back of the car are categorized under rear-end bicycle accidents as well. The impact can throw the cyclist off the bike and cause serious injuries, such as back and neck pain, internal bleeding, or whiplash.
To avoid this type of bicycle accident, cyclists must
- Ride in a predictable and visible manner
- Use a rear light and reflectors
- Signal their intentions
Moreover, motorists must keep a safe distance from cyclists, slow down, and pay attention to the road.
Red Light Bicycle Accidents
If a driver runs a red light and hits a cyclist who has the right of way, it leads to a red light bicycle accident. This can cause traumatic injuries to the cyclist.
To prevent this type of bicycle accident, cyclists must always obey traffic signals and look both ways before crossing an intersection. Moreover, drivers must respect the traffic laws and stop at red lights.
Riding Against Traffic
These types of accidents occur if a cyclist rides on the wrong side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, and crashes into a vehicle. Riding against traffic can confuse drivers and other road users, who may not expect to see a cyclist coming from the opposite direction.
To avoid this type of bicycle accident, cyclists must always ride on the right side of the road, in the same direction as traffic. Moreover, drivers must be alert and scan the road for any potential hazards.
Road Rage Accidents
A road rage accident occurs if a driver intentionally harms a cyclist out of frustration or anger. Symptoms of road rage generally include
- Yelling
- Honking
- Cutting off
- Tailgating
Road rage accidents can cause serious physical injuries and emotional distress to the cyclist. To prevent this type of bicycle accident, cyclists must remain calm and avoid escalating or provoking the angry driver.
Drivers must respect cyclists as legitimate road users and share the road with them.
Intersection Accidents
An intersection accident occurs if a cyclist or driver fails to yield at an intersection and collides with another bicycle or vehicle. This can occur if the cyclist or driver is impaired, distracted, or reckless. Intersection accidents can cause severe injuries to cyclists.
To avoid this type of bicycle accident, cyclists must follow the rules of the road, make eye contact with drivers, and use hand signals. Moreover, drivers must check their blind spots, signal their turns, and yield to cyclists.
Wrapping Up
We believe our article has helped you learn about how bicycle accidents occur and how to avoid them.
Bicycle accidents can cause severe injuries to cyclists. That’s why it is important to be aware of the traffic laws. Wear a helmet and be alert while on the road.
If a motorist has hit you, don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer. They help you get fair compensation for your injuries.
