Cycling is a popular form of travel and amusement for people of all ages, but it doesn’t come without some risks. Cycling accidents happen all of the time. To keep safe while cycling on roads, it’s important to be aware of possible hazards and take precautions to avoid them. From comprehending the legal consequences to wearing appropriate safety gear when riding a bike.
Road-Related Bike Accidents & Fatalities
There were 857 bicycle fatalities in 2019 alone, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with the majority happening in metropolitan areas between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. During the same time period, almost 45,000 cyclists were reported wounded in vehicle accidents. Understanding these disturbing data is critical for being safe when riding on roadways and making educated decisions about when and where to ride your bike.
Common Road-Related Accidents & Legal Implications
One of the more common kinds of bike mishaps is a hit-and-run, which may leave riders physically and financially damaged because the liable cars who fled the scene after causing an accident lack insurance or other forms of guidance. It’s important for cyclists to become familiar with the rules governing hit-and-run situations so that they know what measures to take if an incident occurs while they’re on the road.
Gear Selection & Visibility
One way for riders to reduce their risk is to choose appropriate gear when cycling on roads, such as helmets, reflective clothing/accessories, and lights for nighttime rides/commutes, to increase visibility and ensure personal protection in the event that they find themselves involved in an accident.
Awareness & Tips
It’s important to remember that everyone’s abilities and risk tolerance levels vary when it comes to cycling on roads. This means that each cyclist should think about their skill set when choosing routes based on street characteristics like traffic density or available bike lanes in order to maximize safety while riding a bike on roads. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident due to the negligence of another driver, it may be beneficial for you to consult with a legal professional who specializes in such cases.
Get Help With Your Bicycle Accident With Jeffress Law
If you are in or around the Boulder, CO area and have experienced a bicycle injury on the road, we are here to help. Cristopher W. Jeffress, our lead attorney, has over 30 years of experience practicing law. He used to work for insurance companies and knows how to ensure that you get the maximum compensation that you are owed. He cares for his patients and aims to make a difference in each and every one of their lives. Contact us at 303-993-8685 or visit us online at www.jeffresslaw.com to speak with us today and learn how we can help you!
