Cycling is a healthy sport and bicycles are probably the most ecofriendly vehicle in existence. Bicycle is not a very popular means of commute, as it accounts for no more than 1% of transportation in the United States. However, bicycle accidents make up almost 3% of roadside fatalities caused by auto accidents. If you use your bicycle for daily commute, you should be aware of the risks you are exposed to. On average, about 2 bicyclists die of auto accidents every day in the U.S. When a bicycle collides with an automobile, the cyclist is the one prone to greater impact and life-threatening injuries.
Bicyclists, unlike drivers, are not protected by the body of their vehicle, so they suffer greater damages on collision. The bulk of bicycle and car incidents occur in urban areas, and cyclists are more vulnerable to crashes in the after dark hours. Even though some roadside incidents are inevitable, bikers may take cautionary measures to prevent and minimize damage. Carlsbad Personal Injury Lawyer discusses typical bicycle accidents and how to avoid them.
1. Door Stump accidents
When cycling in an area with parked automobiles on the side of the road, it's likely that one of the cars will open its door unexpectedly, causing you to bang into it. On an open road, drivers and passengers are required to check both ways before opening the door; yet, most people swing their door open without looking, which is a matter of poor habits and careless attitude. The simplest method to avoid an accident like this is to ride a few feet away from parked cars and use a horn to alert passengers.
2. Anti-Traffic accidents
It is basic common sense to ride your bicycle in the same direction as other vehicles or in the designated direction of a one way street. It is essential to abide by the traffic flow, rather than going for an anti-traffic approach. Sadly, some cyclists do not understand this, and argue that it is safer to ride in the opposite direction because it allows them to notice a rapidly approaching car from the front and avoid a rear-end collision. Practically speaking, this practice is exceedingly dangerous because it confuses the motorist and violates traffic law. When you ride in the incorrect direction, your chances of getting into an accident are three times higher.
3. Right Cross Accidents
When a cyclist has the right of way but the driver of the automobile fails to recognize it, a right cross collision occurs. For example, a person is cycling forwards when a car exiting a drive way or parking lot comes its way from the right side. The car may hit you from the side or you might crash into the car’s side if it is faster. These accidents happen because the motorist fails to notice you, and your speeds are unmatched.
Right cross accidents can be avoided by wearing high-visibility apparel and turning on your headlight at all times (day and night). Aside from that, when you get to a crossroad or intersection, slow down and glance to your right. This will let you apply the brakes in a timely manner and come to a complete stop when necessary. It is also easier to grab the driver's attention if you keep your distance from the curb and establish eye contact by waving and honking first.
4. Blinding Red Light
When you come to a halt on the right side of a car at a red light, the driver may not see you, since you are in their blind spot. When you move forward when the light turns green, the car may collide with you if it’s turning right. In order to avoid this from happening, you should always park your bicycle towards the mid-front or mid-rear of the larger vehicle. This will keep you out of their blind spot and reduce the possibility of an accident.
