Main Causes Of Bicycle Accidents In California And Why You Should Look Out For Them
Bicyclists are vulnerable when riding and can get serious injuries if involved in an accident. However, the majority of bicycle accidents are avoidable. Usually, the leading cause is a simple failure to follow traffic laws and failing to treat cyclists with respect.
1. Not Yielding
Bicyclists have the same rights on the road as drivers. Many cars, however, fail to give bicycles the space they require or to respect their right to use the road, whether purposefully or accidentally. In addition, in a variety of situations, drivers fail to yield to bicyclists in many circumstances, including:
Approaching a crossroads
Merging
Turning
Backing out of driveways and other enclosed areas
Failure to obey traffic signals such as stop signs or red lights
To avoid bicycle accidents, motorists must observe the traffic rules and respect the right of bicyclists to be on the road.
If you were in an accident due to someone else's negligence, consult with a California Attorney For Personal Injury immediately.
2. Driving While Distracted
To avoid potential threats, such as bicycles, drivers must maintain constant focus. Cell phones, navigation systems, and eating and drinking can all divert a driver's attention away from the road, endangering bikers.
Drivers who are inebriated are equally dangerous to themselves and others on the road. Drowsy drivers risk losing control of their vehicles if they fall asleep behind the wheel.
Drugged-up or inebriated drivers have poorer reaction times and may lack the judgment needed to stay in their lane, properly perform turns, and avoid impending hazards like bicycles.
Aside from a DUI, the negligent party will also be responsible for any injuries, financial losses, and emotional difficulties you'll suffer as a result of the accident. Contact a California Personal Injury Lawyer to start building a case.
3. Driving Aggressively
Aggressive driving occurs when a driver engages in dangerous behavior with the intent of endangering others. When a driver acts in this manner with another driver, it is extremely dangerous, but when a bicycle is the focus of road rage, it can be fatal. The following are some examples of aggressive driving:
Racing or speeding
Tailgating
Disobeying traffic signals
Dangerous lane changes
Obstructing the bicycle lane
Honking or verbal abuse
When confronted with an aggressive driver, a cyclist's best bet is to avoid them as much as possible. Engaging with an aggressive motorist can quickly exacerbate the situation, putting bicyclists and other road users in danger.
4. Hazardous Road Conditions
Accidents are sometimes caused by the road itself, rather than by other vehicles.
Bicyclists are far more affected by sudden changes in the road surface than larger vehicles, and they can lose control. Potholes are widespread on roads because of long-term wear and tear or unfavorable weather conditions.
Potholes that aren't repaired or are patched with low-quality patches can pose a major hazard to cyclists. Bicycle tires can get stuck on sewer grates, railroad lines, or trolley tracks, causing the biker to fall off or veer towards oncoming traffic.
While it may appear that the government or public entity in charge of road maintenance would be accountable for damages caused by potholes, they normally have some immunity.
A government entity may be held accountable in specific circumstances, although doing so usually necessitates giving them advance notice of the intention to file a claim.
5. Defects in Bicycles
Bicycle defects can be a hidden risk that the rider is unaware of until it is too late. Defects might occur as a result of a significant flaw in the bicycle's design or one of its component parts or as a result of incorrect manufacturing. Recalls are frequently issued as a result of defects. Bicycles can be recalled for a variety of reasons, including:
Frames that are defective or damaged
Failure of the brakes
Tires that are defective
Incorrect materials or construction
Failure to satisfy safety requirements
When the bicycle itself is the problem, then the victim may bring a liability claim. To do so, you can contact a California Attorney For Personal Injury to help you build the case.
Bicyclists should also wear a helmet that is correctly fitting and free of cracks or other problems. Helmets should be changed if they have collided with the ground or another object.
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