Bike accidents not only affect the person who was injured but their families as well. These accidents really have no reason for occurring. If drivers and others on the road were more careful, bike accidents could be a thing of the past. Unfortunately, that is not the reality of today’s world. Keep reading for answers to common questions about bike accidents, then contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation.
How Common Are Bike Accidents?
According to the most recently compiled data by the Centers for Disease Control, there are more than 1,000 fatal bike accidents each year. About 800 of those fatal bike accidents involved a motor vehicle crash. The number of bike accidents are going up more than 10% per year over the last few years and in California alone there are more than 120 fatal bike accidents each year. Only one state has more fatal bike accidents than California and that is Florida.
Why Are There So Many Bike Accidents?
One reason is the fact that more and more people are biking regularly, especially to work, which means there are simply more bikes on the road. Other reasons include drivers not understanding their reasonability to share the road and the lack of bike lanes for bicyclists. Accidents are up overall too, due to increase in distracted driving.
Who is Most Likely to Be Hurt or Killed in a Bike Crash?
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, most bike accidents occur in urban areas during the hours of 3:00 to 6:00 PM on the weekdays or between 6:00 and 9:00 PM on weekends. The average age of a person who dies in a bike accident is 45. 85% of those who die in bike accidents are male and 80% of those who suffer injuries are men. The average age of a woman who is injured in an accident is 20-24.
What Are Some of the Risk Factors for Bike Accidents?
Alcohol is common in many accidents involving collisions between cars and bikes. In fact, 37% of all bike – motor vehicle accidents involve alcohol, whether by the driver or the bicyclist. Reckless driving such as speeding and distracted driving are also common contributing factors.
What Do I Do if I Am Involved in a Bike Accident?
Generally speaking, you will take the same steps you would take if you were involved in a car accident. If you are seriously injured, get medical attention immediately. If it is safe to do so, gather information at the scene from all those involved and any witnesses. Take pictures of otherwise document the damage and your injuries. As soon as you are well enough to do so, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation.
