Biking has become more popular in Connecticut and throughout the United States in recent years. Bicycle commutes are practical in that they reduce carbon emissions and provide riders with exercise. The problem with bicycles is that they’re small and require a good balance to operate effectively. Accidents with other vehicles, especially cars, can lead to injuries for cyclists.
Bicycle accidents by the numbers
Over two-thirds of fatal bicycle accidents happen in cities. Since 2014, the number of bike accidents has gone down overall. However, in 2015 there were more fatal accidents recorded than in the prior year. Understanding how and where these accidents happen is one of the keys to preventing more of them.
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Distracted drivers are one of the biggest forces behind the uptick in fatal bike accidents. Today, phone calls, text messages and other media can pull a driver’s attention away from the road. When drivers are distracted, they’re more likely to end up in a collision with a bike, pedestrian or another car.
Cyclists who aren’t riding safely are another contributing factor to the level of bike accidents. It’s very important for cyclists to pay attention to their surroundings. That’s doubly true at night. Although there are fewer bikes on the road in the dark, about half of all bicycle accidents happen during the nighttime. Inexperience is another factor. In some cities, the number of cyclists has gone up more than ten percent in just five years.
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If you have been injured in a bike accident due to poor road conditions or a vehicle, you should contact a lawyer. An experienced attorney may be able to help you file a personal injury claim. You may be able to collect damages that will cover medical bills and other expenses.
