Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents and How to Seek Legal Help

Cycling offers numerous benefits, from improving physical health to providing an eco-friendly mode of transportation. However, bicyclists often share the road with larger, faster vehicles, which can lead to accidents with serious, sometimes fatal, consequences. Understanding the common causes of bicycle accidents is crucial for both preventing them and knowing when to seek legal assistance. Pinkston Law Group, P.C., with its commitment to advocating for the rights of accident victims, shares essential insights into these causes and the steps you can take if you find yourself in such a predicament.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of all road accidents, including those involving bicycles. When drivers are not fully focused on the road—perhaps because they are texting, eating, or otherwise distracted—they may fail to see cyclists, leading to collisions. The simplicity of a moment’s distraction can result in life-altering injuries or even death for a bicyclist.

Speeding

Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of an accident’s impact. In urban areas and residential neighborhoods, where cyclists and pedestrians are more prevalent, speeding is especially dangerous. High-speed collisions with cyclists can result in catastrophic injuries, given the limited protection bicycles provide.

Failure to Yield

Many accidents occur at intersections where drivers fail to yield the right of way to bicyclists. Whether due to misunderstanding traffic signals or underestimating the speed of a cyclist, these incidents can lead to serious accidents, especially when a vehicle turns in front of or into a cyclist.

Dooring

“Dooring” refers to a situation where a parked vehicle’s door is suddenly opened in the path of an oncoming bicyclist, leaving little to no time for the cyclist to react. These accidents can cause the cyclist to be thrown from their bike, leading to serious injuries. They are particularly common in urban areas with heavy parking along streets.

Poor Road Conditions

Potholes, cracks, uneven surfaces, and debris on the road can pose significant dangers to cyclists, who require smooth surfaces for safe travel. Municipalities are responsible for maintaining roads, but when they fail to do so, serious accidents can occur, leaving them potentially liable for injuries.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, honking, or making hostile gestures, can intimidate or distract cyclists, leading to accidents. In some cases, aggressive drivers may intentionally try to pass cyclists too closely, putting them at risk of being sideswiped or forced off the road.

How to Protect Yourself and What to Do After an Accident

Preventive Measures

• Always wear a helmet and visible clothing.
• Use bike lights and reflectors, especially at night.
• Follow traffic laws and signals as if you were driving a car.
• Be vigilant at intersections and make eye contact with drivers, if possible.

After an Accident

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if you believe your injuries are minor.
• Document the scene by taking photos of your injuries, bicycle damage, and surrounding area.
• Gather contact information from witnesses and the involved driver.
• Report the accident to the police and ensure a report is filed.
• Contact a reputable law firm that specializes in bicycle accidents.

Why Choose Pinkston Law Group, P.C.?

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, it’s crucial to have an experienced legal team on your side. Pinkston Law Group, P.C. specializes in personal injury cases, including bicycle accidents, and understands the complexities involved in these types of claims. Our team is committed to fighting for the rights and compensation of accident victims.

Choosing Pinkston Law Group, P.C. means you get:

• A dedicated team that understands the intricacies of bicycle accident laws.
• Compassionate legal representation that prioritizes your well-being and recovery.
• Aggressive advocacy to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.

Call to Action

Don’t let a bicycle accident derail your life. If you’ve been injured due to the negligence of another, it’s time to take action. Contact Pinkston Law Group, P.C. today for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will review your case, explain your rights, and guide you through every step of the legal process. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Remember, the road to recovery starts with a single step. Make that step count by choosing a legal team that fights tirelessly for you. Call us now and take the first step towards securing your future after a bicycle accident.