10 Bicycle Accidents Types

Using a bicycle as a means of transport allows you to enjoy some fresh air and get some cardio while getting from point A to point B. Whether you ride a bicycle for transportation or leisure, it’s essential to be aware of the dangers of the road.

Bicycle accidents can go down in many ways. Here are the top types of bicycle accidents an experienced bicycle accidents attorney can help with.

Rear End Bike Accident

As a cyclist, you should stay on the side of the road to avoid holding up traffic. You should stop at red lights and crosswalks, like other motorists.

Sometimes, car drivers find it hard to calculate the distance between them and you, and they rear-end you while you are cycling or when you stop at a red light. Even though you may not be going at full speed, you can still suffer serious injuries, including broken bones and brain damage.

Overtaking Accidents

Many accidents happen when car drivers overtake you and then merge back into your lane before giving you enough space. They might crash directly into you or merge in front of you, causing you to crash into them.

Pulling Out of the Driveway

When driving past side roads or driveways, it’s important to watch out for vehicles pulling out. In the case of driveways, many car drivers will be pulling out backward, and it can be hard for them to see you while they are reversing.

Parking Lot Accidents

You’d be surprised by how many accidents occur in parking lots. Many people drive while distracted in parking lots – according to the NSC, a third of drivers make phone calls while driving in parking lots, and more than half answer texts or check social media.

Sudden Swerving

A car driving in front of you or on your side might suddenly swerve in your direction, causing you to crash. That can happen for several reasons. Perhaps the driver saw an obstacle on the road, or maybe they lost control of their vehicle. In either case, it could lead to a severe injury.

Running a Red Light

An example of gross negligence is when a driver runs a red light and T-bones you while crossing the intersection. A similar case is when a driver fails to stop when there is a stop sign or slow down when there is a yield sign.

Speeding

Motorists may speed when they are in a hurry to get to work or under the influence of various illegal substances. Speeding puts everyone else on the road at risk, including cyclists, who don’t enjoy the same protections as other drivers (such as an airbag). If you notice a speeding vehicle behind you, try to stay on the side of the road until they pass you.

Drunk Driving

Similarly, a lot of bicycle accidents occur due to drunk driving. In case you were riding your bike while under the influence of alcohol, getting compensation for your injuries might be more complicated, as you may be at fault. However, if the motorist who crashed into you had a blood alcohol content over the legal limit, it’s easier to prove their negligence.

Motorcycle Accidents

You may think that motorcyclists don’t pose as much danger to bicyclists as cars, but you can still suffer serious injuries if a motorcyclist crashes into you. Motorcycle riders can go at high speeds, causing you to fly off your bike and hit the concrete.

Truck Accidents

If you were in an accident with a truck driver, there are additional factors your lawyer will have to look at. For example, was the driver an independent contractor or an employee of the company? Who can they hold responsible? In some cases, it’s the driver; in other cases, it’s the company.

Conclusion

Bike accidents can be scary, regardless of which of the above accidents you were involved in. A lawyer can help you recuperate your losses and get compensation for damages. Above all, make sure to get proper rest until you recover from your injuries.