Many people enjoy riding a bicycle as a form of leisure, sport or travel. When a person gets onto their bike and ready to get to their destination, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers that one may face. Perhaps the biggest and most obvious threat to bicyclists is motor vehicles. Car drivers may be rushing to and from work, distracted by their cell phones or radio, or are under the influence. If a car were to crash into a person on a bike, it may quickly become a situation of life or death, in which emergency care must be sought immediately.
While this article does not aim to scare you, it is intended to help bicyclists be aware of threats to their safety. As a bicyclist, it is good to know how to help lessen the chances of such a disaster happening to you, and when to seek legal representation. Please read below for more information about bicycle accidents, which have been written in a question and answer format. To learn more about bicycle accidents, you should contact a bicycle accident lawyer in Atlanta, GA
What are the more common injuries related to bicycle accidents?
Bicycle crashes caused by a car driver can be devastating and excruciating for the bicyclist. Depending on the speed of the car, where the rider was hit, and how the rider landed are all factors that can determine the severity of injuries. The most common injuries a rider may suffer from are listed as follows:
- Fractured clavicle
- Hand fractures
- Broken legs, wrists
- Traumatic brain injury
- Fracture of the elbow
- Nerve damage to spinal cord
- Partial or total paralysis
- Jaw injuries
- Facial disfigurement
- Road rash
- Head & neck injuries
- Dislocated shoulders
- Emotional trauma
How can a bicyclist practice safety when sharing the road with vehicles?
A bicyclist should always assume that a car driver is not aware of their presence on the road. Aim with caution at all times and even make eye contact with a driver before crossing a street. Overall, a rider should focus on being alert and aware without distractions. Here is a more extensive list of precautions a rider can take to play it more safe while on the roadways:
- Always wear a helmet that is well-fitted and buckled snugly on your head.
- Scan in front and to the sides, for vehicles that are maneuvering in a threatening way.
- Wear protective gear including knee pads, elbow pads, and gloves to grip handlebars.
- Learn hand signals and use them so car drivers are aware of where you plan to yield or turn while sharing the street.
- Always ride in the same direction of traffic, never against.
- Wear brightly colored clothing or reflective gear especially at night, so drivers can more readily see you.
When should a bicyclist see an attorney for legal assistance?
A bicyclist that has been hit due to the fault of a car driver should seek the help of a bicycle accident lawyer Dekalb County GA residents trust promptly after the incident. An attorney can provide advice and guidance when it comes to filing a lawsuit against the driver for compensation of your injury costs.
This article was written thanks to attorney Andrew Lynch, P.C.