Whether you are new to bike riding or have been riding for decades, it is important to know what risk factors put a person most at risk. Following you will see the risk factors that make it more likely that a bike accident will cause serious injury or death. If you have lost a loved one in a bike accident that was the fault of some other party, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 to request a free legal consultation.
A Person’s Age and Sex Give Hints to Their Likelihood of Being Involved in a Bike Accident
Believe it or not, adults aged 50 – 59 is the most common age demographic of people who die in bike accidents. That said, children and young adults between the ages of 5 and 19 are the most likely to be involved in a nonfatal bike accident. Note that boys and men are six times more likely than girls and women to be in a fatal bike accident, and four times as likely to be in a bike accident at all.
Certain Times of Day Are More Dangerous Than Others
The time of a day a person is riding their bike can affect how likely they are to be involved in a fatal bike accident. Most people assume this would be in the middle of the night, but in fact the most dangerous time to ride is between 4 PM and 8 PM – when there are more vehicles on the road.
Some Areas Are More Dangerous Than Others
While it is certainly true that there are certain intersections that are more dangerous than others, simply riding an urban area is more dangerous than riding in a rural area. How much more dangerous? About 70% of fatal bike accidents occur in urban areas. Many are surprised to learn that most bike accidents do not occur at intersections.
Alcohol Use Increases the Chance of a Fatal Bike Accident
More than 33% of fatal bike accidents involve either a bike rider or driver who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Too often, bike riders believe that it is fine to drive if they have been drinking. As is true of a person who drives a car while drunk, their judgment is impaired and it takes them longer to react to protentional emergencies.
Helmet Use is a Big Indicator
Bike helmets are not designed to prevent bike accidents but they can have a huge impact on whether or not the involved party lives or dies. A person wearing a helmet is 35% less likely to die than a person who is not wearing a helmet.
If you have been injured on a bike, or you have lost a loved one in a bike accident, please contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 to request a free legal consultation.
