When a driver rear-ends a cyclist, the cause is usually negligent bicycling by a motorist. Other causes include lane-sharing and failure to yield to bicyclists crossing the street. The accident can result in significant damages for the innocent bicyclist, including physical pain, emotional trauma, medical bills, and lost wages. This article will explore the most common causes of bicycle accidents and how to prevent them.

Distracted bicyclists

Many cyclists are distracted while cycling. These distractions can be caused by other road users, weather conditions, cell phones, or other devices. Researchers have linked these distractions to increased risk of traffic crashes and severe injury. The research suggests that cyclists may not realize they are distracted and should pay attention to the road ahead of them while cycling. The researchers concluded that distractions from cell phones, GPS devices, or other devices could lead to serious injury or even death.

A study published in Public Health Reports examined traffic crash statistics over a five-year period and found that distractions were associated with more traffic crashes and risky cycling behaviors. Distracted cycling was linked to higher rates of crashes and increased levels of mental distress in cyclists. The study’s bivariate Pearson correlation analysis found a significant relationship between cyclists’ distractions and their levels of cycling intensity and error. It also found that cyclists with the highest risk of traffic crashes were the ones who had most experience with distracted cycling.

Distracted drivers

Bicycle accidents caused by distracted drivers are far more common than you think. In fact, many people do not realize they are distracted while cycling. Most drivers don’t admit it, and their cell phone records are rarely reviewed, and they are only released in cases where the driver was charged with a felony. Distracted driving may also be caused by other activities, such as talking on the phone, or even looking down at an object on the road.

Moreover, distracted drivers are less likely to notice bicyclists than other drivers. They may fail to see a bicyclist while making a left turn or a right turn and hit a bicycle from behind. Distracted drivers are not necessarily negligent in these accidents, but they can still be held responsible for the injuries they cause. This article explores the reasons why distracted drivers cause bicycle accidents and how to avoid them.

Car rear-ends bicyclists

A bicyclist should yield to vehicles before making a left-hand turn. The driver may be moving faster than a bicyclist thinks. This can lead to an accident. If a motorist rear-ends a cyclist, the bicyclist is at a significant disadvantage, as the impact of the collision can be devastating. Observe traffic laws and leave plenty of space between you and the car in front.

Another common reason for car rear-ends bicyclists is driver distraction. Drivers on their cell phones or sending text messages are unlikely to see a bicyclist until it is too late. Overtired and impaired drivers also are more prone to rear-end bicycles. These drivers lack good judgment and reflexes. In such cases, a bicyclist is likely to experience severe injuries and may even die.

Injuries caused by bicycle accidents

Many cyclists face serious injuries in cycling accidents. Many suffer a fractured jaw or teeth, while some are even knocked out. Other bikers experience road rash and eye damage. And, a third of all cyclists will suffer some form of musculoskeletal trauma. During a run-over accident, for example, the cyclist’s arms, legs, and rib cages may be crushed. Doctors sometimes have to amputate severely injured limbs in order to prevent necrosis and the loss of function in these limbs. In more severe crashes, cyclists may also suffer a fractured rib or knee ligament.

Road rash is a common bicycle accident injury. Road rash can be painful, and it can cause infections. However, most bike riders sustain abrasions. Traumatic injury to the trunk can severely damage organs. Damage to these organs may require surgery to stop bleeding, repair blood vessels, or even remove the affected organ. Regardless of the extent of the damage, a bicycle rider can suffer life-altering injuries.

If you have been a bike accident and need a lawyer, take a look at personalinjurynewyorkcity.com/legal-services/bicycle-accidents today.