Common causes of bicycle accidents are speeding, disregarding traffic laws, running red lights or stop signs, unsafely changing lanes, failure to yield, and impaired driving. When accidents do occur they can lead to injuries such as head trauma, spinal cord damage, fractures and dislocations, soft tissue injuries, internal organ trauma, and psychological distress.
Injuries To The Head
Frequently, during a bicycle accident, the rider is thrown off and makes contact with the ground. On occasion, they may land with their head taking the impact, resulting in head injuries. The severity of such injuries can range from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries. By wearing a bicycle helmet, riders can significantly reduce their risk.
Injuries To The Spinal Cord
Even in seemingly minor bicycle accidents, riders can experience spinal cord damage. A simple fall and an unfortunate landing can lead to a spinal cord injury, potentially causing trauma or even paralysis. It’s worth noting that severe cases of this injury can significantly impact a person’s lifespan.
Injuries Leading To Fractures and Dislocations
Fractures and dislocations are common injuries resulting from bicycle accidents. When a rider lands on a specific part of their body, they can experience trauma that leads to fractures or dislocations. For instance, if a cyclist extends their hand to cushion their fall, they may suffer a wrist fracture. Similarly, if they place most of their weight on their arm or shoulder, it can result in a dislocated shoulder.
Injuries To Soft Tissue
Soft tissue injuries are frequently encountered in bicycle accidents. The impact on the pavement or an object after an accident can result in cuts, scrapes, and lacerations. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address the extent of the damage.
Injuries To Internal Organs
When a bicycle accident occurs due to the negligence of a motor vehicle driver, it can result in catastrophic injuries involving trauma to internal organs. Being struck by a car can cause severe harm, creating emergency situations that are potentially life-threatening.
Psychological Trauma
Even if a cyclist is fortunate enough to escape physical injuries from a bicycle accident, they may still experience psychological distress. It is common to feel fear and anxiety, making it difficult to get back on the bicycle. In some cases, individuals may develop a phobia of riding or even suffer from debilitating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Bicycle Safety Advice to Help Prevent Accidents
While it’s true that bicycle accidents can’t always be avoided, there are steps that cyclists can take to enhance their safety and minimize the risk. This involves wearing helmets and protective gear, prioritizing high visibility, following road regulations diligently, and utilizing designated bike lanes whenever possible. By following these guidelines, cyclists can greatly reduce the chances of accidents and ride with greater peace of mind.
Always Wear a Helmet and Protective Gear
To ensure safety while cycling, it is vital to utilize helmets and protective gear. This includes wearing a properly fitted helmet, gloves, as well as elbow and knee pads. Additionally, consider using a mouthguard as an optional but valuable protective measure for your teeth in case of any unforeseen accidents.
Enhance Visibility for Safety
To ensure bicyclists remain visible at all times including during nighttime and in dimly lit areas, it is recommended to wear brightly-colored clothing and utilize reflectors. This simple practice significantly improves the visibility of bicycles on the road, making it easier for drivers to spot them.
Always Obey The Laws of The Road
Bicyclists should ride in the same direction as traffic and avoid crossing areas without intersections. Just like drivers, cyclists must follow the rules of the road. This includes stopping at stop signs and red lights, yielding the right of way to traffic, and allowing pedestrians to safely cross before proceeding through intersections. Cyclists are also expected to share designated sidewalks with pedestrians in a safe manner.
If Available, Choose The Bike Lane
When bike lanes are accessible, it is advisable for cyclists to choose them over other lanes on the road or the sidewalk. These designated areas are specifically designed for cyclists, ensuring a safer and more efficient cycling experience.
Bicycle Accident Attorneys In Port Charlotte and Englewood Florida
The consequences of all bicycle accidents are almost always tragic. Victims must wade through numerous additional layers of complexity, which may appear nearly impossible to overcome.
If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry. It’s totally normal to feel stressed, worried, and uncertain. You might also have financial concerns about the cost of diagnostic tests, medications, medical equipment, and other associated costs.
An experienced attorney can provide you with the legal advice and guidance you need to make sure your case is strong. They will also be able to help you navigate the law and other necessary details and will represent you in court if you decide to file a lawsuit.
FGB Law Firm represents clients who have been hurt or injured in bicycle accidents. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve after an accident. Allow us to fight for your rights while you concentrate on recovering, call 941-979-9010 or complete our online contact form today.