3 of the Most Common Types of Bicycle Accidents Caused by Vehicles
For many individuals in the Tucson area, bikes are the transportation of choice. Bicycle riders are often forced to take roads shared with larger and more powerful vehicles. The mere act of riding next to vehicles can be frightening for those on a bike, and with good reason. Bicycle accidents are dangerous and far too common. While they can happen in many ways, a few types of bicycle accident are more commonly seen in the Tucson area. These accidents can occur when:
A vehicle attempts to overtake a cyclist
This type of accident is typically the biggest threat to cyclists. Often, motorists driving behind a cyclist get frustrated at the biker’s slow speed and attempt to pass them. The driver may think they have enough room to pass the cyclist, but end up sideswiping them or hitting them from behind. If this happens, the cyclist could be knocked off balance, knocked off the bike, or in the worst case, run-over. Any of these consequences could result in serious injury for the cyclist. To reduce the chance of this happening, cyclists should wear reflective gear or have a reflector on their bike; however, it is always the responsibility of the driver to consider the cyclist. If you are hit as a cyclist, the driver of the vehicle is liable for your injuries.
A vehicle turns in front of a cyclist
This occurs when a motorist is approaching a right turn and a cyclist is riding to the right of them or when a driver is crossing to make a left turn while a bike is riding in the opposite direction. The driver attempts to turn in front of the bike, either thinking that they are far enough ahead of the cyclist or because they do not see them. The accident occurs because the bike may not have enough time to stop before slamming into the side of the car, the car strikes the side of the cyclist, or the cyclist is forced to swerve out of their lane into oncoming traffic. Any of these situations could result in serious injury for the cyclist. Drivers should always be on the lookout for cyclists and be patient in making turns after bikes pass. With that being said, cyclists can reduce or prevent future accidents by watching out for cars attempting to make rights turns and doing their best to make sure that they are visible to passing vehicles.
A vehicle pulls out in front of a cyclist
This can occur when a vehicle pulls out from a side street, parking lot, or driveway to the cyclist’s right. An accident could happen if the driver attempts to pull out while the bike is passing, and thus strikes the side of the cyclist. It could also happen if the vehicle pulls out in front of the bike, causing the cyclist to swerve into traffic or slam into the side of the car. Like with the other accidents, any of these results could cause serious injury for the cyclist.
Besides helmets, and maybe some padding, cyclists are offered little protection against vehicles. When accidents occur, the life and well-being of cyclists are often put at a much greater risk than those in a vehicle. That is why drivers hold the responsibility of looking out for cyclists on the road. If drivers neglect this responsibility and you as a cyclist are injured in an accident, you may have right to compensation for your injuries and should contact a personal injury attorney immediately. The attorneys at the Russo Law Firm, know your rights as a cyclist and are prepared to fight for your compensation. To discuss the details of your case, contact our office at (520) 529-1515.
