The growing popularity of bicycling is easy to understand. Bicycling provides fun and affordable recreation as well as an excellent form of exercise. In addition, bicycling is an environmentally friendly and economical means of transportation, fueled by human energy rather than by gasoline.

But just like any activity, bicycling carries a risk of injury. To be safe, a cyclist must be alert to road hazards, such as potholes, as well as motor vehicles and pedestrians. Because they ride without any outer protection, cyclists, like pedestrians and motorcycle riders, are especially vulnerable to sudden, dangerous, or illegal maneuvers by motor vehicle drivers.

A review of statistics confirms the dangers of bicycling:

• Every 6 hours a bicyclist is fatally injured in an accident.
• Over 75% of all bicycle accidents result in head injuries.
• 15% of bicycle accidents involve collisions with motor vehicles.
• The median age of cyclists sustaining fatal injuries has risen from 13 years old in 1975 to 36 years old in 2000.
• Approximately one million children are injured every year in bicycle accidents.

In terms of prevention, some simple precautions can help bicycle riders to avoid accidents and reduce injuries.

• Wearing a helmet is the single most important safety measure for a bicyclist. Bicycle helmets save lives and reduce the risk of brain injury by as much as 88%.
• Obey all traffic laws.
• Avoid riding at night if possible. If you do ride at night, make sure your bike is properly outfitted with lights and reflectors.
• Wear brightly colored clothing to increase visibility.

Safety measures like these, along with an increase in designated bicycle paths and motor-vehicle driver awareness programs, have led to a steady decline in the number of bicycle accident fatalities over the past 25 years. Still, there is no foolproof way to guarantee a safe bicycling experience, and accidents often result in significant physical and financial damage.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, contact our office immediately. Failure to take prompt action could jeopardize a potential claim.

Call toll-free 1-866-778-5500 today for your free legal consultation.