With the arrival of spring, more bicyclists will be on the roads. Although bicycling is an extremely healthy, cost effective, environmentally sound mode of transportation, it is not without risks. Between 2000 and 2012, the number of people who commute to work by bicycle in the U.S. rose from 488,000 to 786,000. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), bicycle accidents involving a motor vehicle were responsible for 743 cyclist deaths and 48,000 fatalities in 2013 alone. In crashes involving motor vehicles, the cyclist is the most likely to be seriously injured or killed. Contact a Boston Bicycle Accident Attorney Today.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
- In 2012, cyclists accounted for about 2% of total traffic fatalities.
- About 48% of bicyclist fatalities take place between the hours of 4 p.m. and midnight.
- Approximately 69% of bicyclist fatalities occur in urban areas.
- Nearly 1/4 of bicyclists killed in crashes had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08%.
- The vast majority of cyclists killed are male (88%).
- The top three states for bicyclist fatalities are: California (141), Florida (133), and Texas (48).
- The average age of those killed in bicycle / motor vehicle crashes is 44.
- The most common causes of bicyclist injuries are: being hit by a car, falling, roadway conditions, rider error, crashing, and an animal running out.
- Bicycle Safety Tips
By following the safety tips below, you can dramatically reduce your risk of serious injury or death in a bicycle accident.
- Always ride with traffic, on the right side of the road.
- Use bike lanes whenever possible.
- Obey traffic signals and signs.
- Always wear a helmet.
- Wear bright clothing.
- Don’t ride at night.
- If you must ride at night, make sure your bike is equipped with reflectors and a light, and wear reflectors on your clothing.
- Even if you have the right of way, yield to other vehicles if there’s any doubt about a car or truck driver’s next move.
- Avoid riding when under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
By taking the proper precautions, you can greatly reduce your risk while riding a bicycle. Wearing a properly-fitted helmet is your single best line of defense against serious injury. Follow the rules of the road, ride defensively, and wear brightly-colored clothing at all times. Being safe doesn’t have to take the fun out of bicycling.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Boston’s Premier Bicycle Accident Attorneys
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, the legal team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. It is easy for a bicyclist to become hidden in a driver’s blind spot. Distracted driving makes the problem even worse. As more and more drivers are checking their phone, texting, or adjusting their navigation while driving, the risk to bicyclists continues to grow. If you have been harmed by another’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, property damage, and lost wages. Our knowledgeable, compassionate injury team will make sure you understand your rights and options before moving forward. At Altman & Altman, LLP, we have over 50 years of experience protecting the rights of accident and injury victims. Contact us today for a free consultation about your case.