Bicyclists comprise 2% of traffic deaths

On Behalf of | Apr 6, 2021 | Bicycle Accidents

There are many benefits to cycling. You stay in shape. You save money. You protect the environment. Some people ride as a hobby, while others just use the bike as a way to commute. These advantages over driving a car make it worth it, even though cycling is physically more difficult and often slower than driving. 

If you’re interested in getting into cycling at any level, one thing you want to consider is how many accidents take place every year. Some studies have found that about 12.4% of Americans ride on a regular basis. When looking at traffic fatalities, these cyclists make up roughly 2% of all deaths on the road in a given year. 

How do fatal bicycle accidents happen?

These accidents happen in a variety of ways. Sometimes, drivers simply do not see cyclists and they pull out in front of them or merge into their path. In other cases, cyclists get hit while cars overtake them when the vehicles get too close. In still other cases, cyclists try to avoid traffic by riding on the sidewalk, only to find that it’s actually more dangerous to do so because drivers don’t expect them to be there and tend to hit them when they turn down a side street.

Safety gear certainly helps. Helmets can reduce injuries and even prevent some head injuries. High-visibility clothing can help prevent accidents from happening in the first place. But there is nothing that can be done to keep cyclists entirely safe, and accidents will always be a risk.

What can you do if a loved one was killed in a cycling accident?

Those who lose loved ones (or suffer injuries themselves) must know what legal options they have for compensation. Working with an experienced advocate who understands the struggles you face as a result of your losses is wise.

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