Bike Accidents - What Cyclists and Drivers Can Do to Avoid Bicycle Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 51,000 bicyclists were hurt in a traffic related accident in 2009. 630 bicyclists died, 74 of which were under 14 years of age. Bicycle accidents are more common than many would think. Also, when these accidents involve a motor vehicle, they often lead to serious injury or death.

Information provided by Elan Wurtzel for educational and reference purposes only.

What Bicyclists Can Do to Prevent Future Accidents

There are several things that bicyclists can do to avoid an accident. The first is to ride in the same direction as traffic when traveling on the road. Cyclists should also make sure that drivers can see them. When riding at night, bikes must be equipped with a headlight and reflective gear.

Cyclists also need to maintain control over their bicycle at all times. Bicyclists should avoid riding at excessive speeds, refrain from listening to music, and always pay attention to the road. Cyclists should always be ready to brake or veer off the road if necessary. Defensive cycling is imperative to staying safe.

Cyclists should also be aware that certain areas of the road are more dangerous than others. For example, 45% of all cycling traffic accidents happen at intersections. For this reason, cyclists should be extra careful when crossing an intersection. To stay safe, look both ways before entering an intersection, follow all traffic laws, make eye contact with drivers, and never cross at speeds that would make it impossible to stop shortly.

Helmets are also important. While a helmet may not always be enough to keep a person safe, it does offer an important layer of protection. According to the Children's Safety Network, head injuries caused 62.6% of cycling fatalities in 2000.

Steps Drivers Can Take to Keep the Roads Safe

Drivers also need to make the effort to keep the roads safe for cyclists. Unless specifically marked, cyclists are not supposed to ride on the sidewalk. They are supposed to share the road with drivers. It is a driver’s responsibility to look out for cyclists, give them enough room, and help them reach their destination safely.

If possible, drivers should switch lanes to give bicyclists enough room to ride. Pushing cyclists off the road or into a curb may force them to fall off of their bicycle and into the road. Drivers also need to be exceptionally careful at intersections. It’s important for drivers to be aware of the pedestrians, cars, and cyclists around them at all times. Paying attention to cyclists is the most effective way to make the roads a safer place.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is intended to inform the reader. No portion of the contained information is meant to serve as legal advice.