Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation in Florida, and people often choose to hop on a bike to get to work or run errands instead of using a car or public transportation. It can be faster and cheaper to bike than to ride, and it is also an environmentally friendly way to get around. However, choosing to ride a bike can also come with certain risks.
The number of cyclists on the road is higher than ever, but that could also mean that more people need to be aware of the risks that come with riding a bike. When a moving vehicle strikes a person on a bicycle, the results can be catastrophic. If you bike, you may find it beneficial to learn more about the potential hazards you could face and what you can do to stay as safe as reasonably possible.
More fatal bicycle accidents
Statistics indicate that the overall number of bicycle accidents is declining, but of the bicycle accidents that do happen, more are likely to be fatal. There could be a few reasons behind this trend:
- Inexperienced cyclists make mistakes or do not know how to share the road with vehicles.
- Drivers are not paying attention, perhaps due to distracted driving, and they are not safely sharing the road with cyclists.
- Cities and local governments have not done enough to implement safety measures, such as bike lanes and lower speed limits.
Like other types of motor vehicle accidents, bicycle crashes often happen because of human error. Drivers are more distracted than ever, which has led to an overall increase in the number of serious or fatal collisions on the road. Even when using hands-free devices, drivers who are not paying attention may not see a person on a bike.
Additionally, road conditions contribute to a significant number of bicycle accidents. Bike lanes are important, as are well-paved roads. Around 13% of all bicycle accidents that result in an injury happen because of the condition of the road.
Are you a victim?
If you are the victim of a bicycle accident, you do not have to suffer in silence. It may seem like an overwhelming task to pick up the pieces and move forward, but you may have grounds to move forward with a civil claim. After a bicycle accident, it may be helpful to seek an evaluation of your case with an experienced personal injury attorney.
