Whether it’s for improved health, to save money or help the environment, bicycling riding has a number of advantages. Unfortunately, one of the disadvantages it comes with is an increased risk of being seriously hurt if involved in an accident. Riders and drivers everywhere need to keep safety in mind in order to decrease the odds of someone being injured.

Intersection Accidents

Cyclists need to be especially careful when approaching intersections, as this is where the majority of bicycle accidents occur. Riders can be struck whenever another driver:

• Attempts to run a red light or stop sign
• Turns directly in front of a cyclist
• Strikes the bicycle rider
• Pushes the cyclist off the road

Other Types of Bicycle Accidents

Aside from injuries at intersections, the next most common cause of bicycle accidents involves visibility. Drivers may have trouble seeing a bicycle rider until it is too late, particularly when it is raining, foggy or dark outside. Riders should use extra caution when riding under these hazardous conditions, and may want to consider placing lights on their bicycles or helmets to aid with visibility.

Drivers may also collide with bicycles when:

• Driving too fast for conditions
• Operating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Texting or otherwise becoming distracted
• Passing on a blind curve or hill

When bicycles and cars collide, the results could be potentially dangerous. This is especially true whenever a bicycle rider has been run over, or a hit and run occurs, leaving the individual without any way to seek medical treatment for his or her injuries. Even seemingly minor accidents can result in broken bones, head injuries or severe scraping of the skin that would require multiple surgeries to correct.

Rights under the Law

Texas law aims to protect bicycle riders from negligent drivers by allowing them the right-of-way at intersections and on roadways. Even so, many drivers fail to acknowledge this, treating them more as a nuisance than equals. This mindset spills over into insurance companies as well, as many of them will attempt to find fault with the cyclist in order to prevent paying out a claim for damages.

Hiring an Attorney

Cyclists who are injured in an accident need to assert their rights as quickly as possible in order to avoid being taken advantage of. In many cases, hiring a personal injury attorney is the best way of doing this, as it shows the driver and insurance company that the victim is serious about recovering damages. Schedule a free case evaluation today by calling 713.766.5400.

*Image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net