Cyclists are at every disadvantage in traffic; they are smaller, slower, lighter and less protected than anyone traveling in a car. Yet more and more people are choosing to bike to work for environmental, health and financial reasons.
As car and bicycle accident attorneys, we help bike injury victims with their claims and cases. Here is some information we hope will be of help to you.
You may be able to avoid getting into a bike accident by knowing these five most common accidents and how to avoid them.
The five most common bicycle accidents:
- Left cross. Almost half of all bicycle crashes happen when a cyclist makes a left turn and the motorist fails to see them, according to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center.
- Right Hook. This happens when a car passes you on the left and then turns right, directly into your path. The only way you can avoid this type of accident is to be anticipating the possibility of the vehicle on your left making a sudden right turn and you being able to stop in time.
- Car-door crash. A driver parked parallel to traffic opens a door and a cyclist rides into it. Always be looking a few cars ahead to avoid this type of accident.
- Parking lot peek-a-boo. A car pulls out of a parking lot, and right into the path of a cyclist. Try to avoid routes with many entrance and exits; if you can’t, ride in the lane and not on the sidewalk.
- Rear-end. A motorist hits you from behind. Using reflectors, signaling, and riding predictably can help you avoid this type of accident.
Even the most defensive cyclist can end up in an accident from time to time. When you do, protect your rights as a cyclist and your property by calling our office. An attorney can evaluate your case and determine if you are entitled to an injury settlement.
Get more information on accidents in our eBook, 9 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your California Accident Case. You can download the book for free and read more about vehicle accident issues in the book.
At the Law Offices of John P. Burns, we handle your bike accident claim so you can focus on recovering emotionally and physically without dealing with the details. It’s free to ask questions, so contact us directly at 949-496-7000 or email us at john@johnburnslaw.com. We’ll be sure to get back to you within 24 hours.