Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Bicycling has gained in popularity over the past few years, for recreation, exercise, and transportation. As healthy as cycling is, it also poses dangerous risks of catastrophic injuries because of the high rate of bike accidents. According to national statistics, more than 800 people are killed each year in bike accidents involving vehicles. Thousands more suffer serious injuries that often leave them with permanent disabilities, changing their lives forever. Tragically, these numbers continue to increase each year.
If you are a cyclist, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk of injury. If you are injured in a bike accident, call a law office to meet with a bike accident attorney and find out what damages you may be entitled to.
Cyclists who live in urban areas are at a significant risk of being involved in a crash because of the high number of vehicles and traffic on the roads. In fact, more than 70 percent of all bike accident deaths happen in urban areas. People who ride their bikes on city streets need to take extra precaution to stay safe while riding. The following safety tips are recommended by safety advocates and bike accident attorneys:
- Always wear your helmet: Research shows that a bicyclist who wears a helmet substantially reduces their risk of a brain injury. More than 70 percent of all fatal bike accident victims suffer a traumatic brain injury, while more than half of those victims were not wearing helmets. No matter how short your trip may be, wear your helmet whenever you ride.
- Make sure you can be seen: Approximately 20 percent of all fatal bike accidents occur in the evening, between the hours of 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Riders should do all they can to avoid riding at night, however, if you do need to venture out, make sure you are wearing bright colored clothing. You should also make sure your bike is equipped with a headlight in the front, a blinking light in the back, and reflectors so vehicle drivers can see you.
- Never drink and drive: Bike riders are required by law to follow the same traffic laws as vehicle drivers. This includes drinking. It is against the law for a cyclist to drink and then drive their bike. It is also extremely dangerous. Approximately one in five cyclists who are killed in bike accidents have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher, over the legal limit. If you are going to drink, keep your bike at home and take a ridesharing service, taxi, or have a friend who is a designated driver.
Let a Firm Help
Regardless of how many safety tips you follow, you still may find yourself with injuries because of a negligent driver. Call a law firm if you have been injured and speak with a bicycle accident lawyer in Trenton, NJ to find out what legal recourse you may have.
Thanks to Davis & Brusca for their insight into personal injury claims and safety tips for bike riders.
