Bicycle Accidents
Bicycling is once again becoming a popular method of transportation, recreation, and exercise. However, as more and more bikes hit the road, many motorists are unaware of how to drive safely near bicyclists. In a collision between a car and a bike, a cyclist can suffer serious injuries. In fact, over 700 cyclists die in accidents each year.
Common Causes of Accidents
Cyclists can help reduce their risk of injury or death in a collision by obeying all traffic laws and wearing a helmet. However, the safety of the cyclist is often ultimately up to the driver. Examples of common bike accidents include:
- Driving too closely to a bicyclist: There should be at least three feet of space between cars and bicycles.
- Failing to give right-of-way: Bicyclists must follow the same laws as drivers. A cyclist must obey stop signs and traffic lights, and drivers must yield to cyclists when they have the right-of-way.
- Turning directly into a cyclist: Drivers should carefully check for bicyclists to their right before making a turn.
- Driving, parking, or opening car doors in the bike lane: Bike lanes are designed to help bikers get around safely on dangerous roads. Blocking the lanes can cause serious injury, and a collision with an open car door can even cause death.
It is important for both bicyclists and drivers to understand the common causes of bicycle accidents and work to avoid them.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, contact Coral Springs biking accident lawyer Eric G. Canter, P.A. at 866-529-0022.