Statistics show that nearly 1,00 cyclists are killed and more than 150,00 injured in accidents on UK roads every year. The severity of bicycle-related injuries depends on the severity of the collision. While some bicycle accidents are avoidable, others are beyond your control. Discussed below are six common causes of bicycle accidents.
Cause # 1. Distracted driving
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Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of bicycle accidents. This includes any activity that distracts the driver from driving. These distracted driving factors may include:
Visual distractions: These are tasks that take the driver's attention away from the road, such as looking at the scenery or looking for something on the floor of the car.
Manual distractions: These are activities that cause drivers to take their hands off the wheel, including eating and texting.
Cognitive distractions: These can cause a driver to become distracted from driving, such as while under the influence of drugs/alcohol or daydreaming.
If you were injured or suffered damages in a bicycle accident due to distracted driving, you may be entitled to compensation. Hiring a bicycle accident lawyer can help you obtain the maximum possible compensation for your losses/injuries.
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Cause # 2. Unsafe/ improper lane changes
Accidents caused by improper/unsafe lane changes can result in serious injury or even death. These changes can occur when a cyclist or vehicle driver does not check for other cyclists/drivers before changing lanes. Drivers who do not signal when changing lanes can confuse cyclists because they are unaware of the driver's intention to cross the street. A driver's misjudgment of a cyclist's speed/distance can lead to an accident when changing lanes. Bicyclists are often at higher risk in these types of accidents because they do not have the same protection as motorists, making them more vulnerable to injury.
Cause # 3. Doorings
Door-related accidents occur when drivers/passengers open doors to moving cyclists. In some cases, a cyclist may give way in an attempt to avoid colliding with another vehicle. These accidents are common when drivers/passengers fail to do so. Ignore approaching cyclists when you open your doors or get out of your car on the street. Checking your mirrors and looking over your shoulder before opening car doors can help drivers and passengers avoid accidents when you get out of your car on the sidewalk rather than on the street. .
Cause # 4. Over speeding
When a driver goes beyond the speed limit, they’re left with little time to respond to unforeseen situations, including a bicycle rider crossing a street. An overspeeding driver may also not be able to stop their car fast enough, raising a collision risk with a bicyclist. A speeding cyclist can also drive into a moving vehicle, causing a severe accident. Driving and riding at reasonable speeds can help avoid such accidents.
Cause # 5. Not yielding
Failing to yield happens when a driver doesn’t stop/ slow down at intersections, crosswalks, and other parts where yielding to oncoming traffic is required. Some motorists may argue that they failed to yield the bicyclist’s right of way because they didn’t see them on the road, resulting in failure-to-yield accidents.
Cause # 6. Poor visibility
Bicycle riders can be difficult to see, particularly in low-light situations, raising the risk of an accident. Areas with poor visibility, like blind curves, may lead to a collision between a motor vehicle and a bicyclist.
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Endnote
Bicycle accidents are common and occur for a variety of reasons. Learn about common causes of bicycle accidents and how to reduce your risk.