Why Do Bicycle Accidents Occur?

If you are a bicycle enthusiast, you probably take all the appropriate safety measures you can: Wearing protective gear, making sure your bike is in good repair, and following the rules of the road. And yet, bicycle accidents happen. California has been listed as the 10th most dangerous state in the U.S. for bicyclists. 

Most Common Types of Crashes

Although it’s true that there are more cyclists on California roads today, it’s also true that more motorists are driving distracted than ever before. Ultimately, drivers must be aware of their surroundings, including bicycles sharing the road. Some common causes of car vs. bicycle accidents include:

• Dooring—is when a motorist or passenger exits their vehicle and opens the door into a bike lane with no time for the cyclist to avoid a crash.
• Intersection accidents—If a driver isn’t vigilant and makes a right turn without properly checking their mirrors, they may miss a bicyclist coming up behind them who is going straight and cause an accident as their car crosses the bike lane.
• Parking lot and driveway accidents—drivers who pull out of their driveway or parking space too quickly without checking behind them may surprise an oncoming bicyclist and result in a crash.
• Incapacitated driving—driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or when tired also blurs vision and decreases reaction time and hand-eye coordination for drivers, making them unable to spot and react to a cyclist in enough time to avoid hitting them.

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle crash, contact our experienced attorneys immediately. Bicycle cases can be tricky due to comparative negligence, which means a driver or insurance company will try to place some of the blame on you. Our lawyers have handled many bicycle accident cases. They will inform you of your rights and help you get the settlement you’re entitled to.

Have you or a loved one been a victim of a bicycle accident? If so, Tiemann Law Firm can help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, same-day consultation by calling (916) 999-9000 or toll-free: (800) 712-2000.