Pomona Bicycle Accident Attorney
To Prevent Collisions And Injuries, Cyclists Have To Always Ride Defensively
As the amount of bicyclists increases, the amount of accidents involving bikes will also likely grow. And, like a lot of other vehicle accidents, a large number of them occur at intersections.
A lot of these collisions are the result of drivers who seem to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roadways. They fail to look out for cyclists when making turns or moving through intersections.
These kinds of collisions are worsened by excessively large and busy intersections. Furthermore, bicyclists are put at risk by rapidly changing traffic signals that might turn red before they fully cross the intersection.
What Are The Most Prevalent Causes Of Bicycle Accidents?
Several of the most common causes of bicycle crashes include:
Drivers Failing To Yield To Bicyclists In Intersections
Some drivers might not be familiar with the laws of the road when dealing with bicyclists sharing the street. This lack of understanding can be especially hazardous when a cyclist and a car are sharing the street while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for cars and bicyclists. Intersections are one of the main areas where crashes resulting in devastating injuries occur.
A Driver Failing To Observe Cyclists On The Street
Motorists not seeing a cyclist on the street is a common cause of a crash involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists need to take preventative measures to minimize this very preventable cause of bike accidents.
Bicyclists can utilize safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored clothing to help lower the possibility of an accident. Likewise, drivers need to realize that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for when driving. Motor vehicle drivers should be particularly cautious at intersections, near bike lanes, and in locations with a large number of bike commuters.
Motorists Encroaching Into Bike Lanes
Even while riding within the confines of a bike lane, cyclists must be alert at all times for distracted and negligent motorists. Vehicles can accidentally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after only a few seconds of distraction. This can possibly cause a bicyclist to sustain major injuries.
Bicycle Doorings When A Driver Or Passenger Does Not Pay Attention While Opening A Car Door
As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a major threat to cyclists, particularly in urban settings. These accidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can result in catastrophic injuries like brain injuries, neck and back injuries, facial damage, and long-lasting pain and suffering. Engaging in defensive riding techniques is the best way for a bicyclist to avoid being the victim of a dooring.
Distracted Motorists Hitting A Cyclist
Distracted driving is one of the greatest problems for roadway safety that we face today. As smartphones have become a huge part of our everyday lives, many individuals find it difficult to put down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a threat to other vehicles. But they are even more dangerous to cyclists and pedestrians since they have almost zero protection if they are hit. Somebody who is distracted by texting, eating, or a myriad of other reasons might divert into bike lanes. Also, they may not notice a bicyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a bicyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big concern that it's been identified as the leading cause of bicycle accidents involving automobiles.
Motorists Neglecting To Yield To Bicyclists While Pulling In And Out Of Driveways Or Parking Lots
When a driver that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not completely check their surroundings, it can lead to serious repercussions for pedestrians and bicyclists. Cyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while individuals are backing out due to their smaller size and their reduced noise levels. Backup cameras and sensors are beginning to lessen these types of collisions. However motorists can not depend on these technologies in place of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.
How Can I Prevent A Bike Accident?
Following proper safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Pomona is the best way to prevent accidents and injuries. When moving in traffic, bicyclists need to do the following:
- Obey the rules of the road
- Assume that vehicles and motorists will fail to see you
- Provide cars a wide berth
- Periodically yield to cars under certain conditions when you do not know if a motorist has spotted you
- You should have appropriate safety gear
How Can I Protect Myself In A Bicycle Accident?
- Use a properly-fitting helmet
- Wear bright or reflective clothing
- Use a bike light, reflectors, and reflective tape
- Follow all posted traffic laws
- Trip with the flow of traffic
- Use bike lanes whenever possible
- Make sure your bicycle is in good working condition
- Remain alert at all times and avoid distracted riding
What Should I Do After A Bicycle Accident?
If you get injured in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:
- Call 911 and file a police report. Do not let a driver talk you into not making a police report. That can result in problems later.
- Exchange information with the motorist that hit you. Photograph of their driver's license and insurance card.
- Take multiple pictures of your bike, the vehicle that hit you, and the scene of the accident.
- Obtain witness information from anyone that happened to see the collision. Don't miss this step, as authorities do not always take down witness info and you may need it later.
- If needed, get medical attention right away.
- Get in touch with a qualified bike accident attorney in Pomona. Do this before calling the other side's insurance provider.
Contact A Pomona Bicycle Accident Lawyer At First Law Group
If you sustain an injury in a collision with a car while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you need to speak with a qualified bicycle accident lawyer immediately. He or she will help figure out whether you may have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent motorist.
At First Law Group, our knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyers assist bicyclists in pursuing claims against negligent drivers who have caused severe injuries. We understand how to collect all of the compensation you deserve for your injuries, whether that means filing a claim or seeking a remedy using other means.
At First Law Group, we really care about our community and we are driven by our passion for clients. Our personal injury lawyers in Pomona, California are always available to take your call. For a Free Consultation, call us at (626) 888-8264, or visit our website: FirstLG.com
