Blog Topic

Bicycle Accidents On The Road
Posted by: Craig A. Knapp
May 25, 2011

On the northwest corner of University Drive and Ash Avenue in Tempe lays a faded white bike with deflated tires cemented into the ground. Around it you'll find flowers, notes, signs, and candles, all in memory of a bicyclist who was killed last year in that very spot.

It is memorials like these that remind bicyclists of key questions: Are you taking the right safety precautions when riding your bicycle? Are you following your state and city laws when operating your bicycle? Last week, the Arizona Republic reported three fatal bicycle accidents over the course of five days, bringing Arizona's total this year to five so far.

Each year there are more than 700 bicycle deaths reported in the United States and more than 45,000 bicycle injuries. Unfortunately, since only serious injuries and fatalities are typically reported, the number of bicycle accidents is said to be much higher.

In most cases, injuries and deaths could have been avoided by taking simple safety measures. Here are some safety measures you can follow to prevent bicycle accidents:

?1.) Wear a helmet. This is the most important safety measure a bicyclist can take. Most bicycle injuries are head injuries, which, as you can imagine, are very costly. According to the NHTSA, the U.S. spends an estimated $8 billion each year on bicycle related injuries. However, for every dollar spent on bicycle helmets, it saves society $30 in indirect medical costs and other costs.

?2.) Follow traffic laws. Make sure you are following the signs, riding in the direction of traffic, and making wise decisions. Although drivers are supposed to yield to bicyclists, cyclists should also be aware of their surroundings.

?3.) Make yourself visible. Many accidents happen due to a driver's inability to see a cyclist. Make sure your bike has reflectors or lights to make you more noticeable to drivers. Also, avoid wearing dark colors at night. Wearing a brighter colored shirt is an easy way to make you more visible, day or night.

Whether or not something is required in your state when riding a bike, it is wise to take all precautionary measures in an effort to avoid accidents. If you, or someone you love, have been a victim in a bicycle accident and you need expert legal advice, give Knapp & Roberts a call. Despite your best effort, we realize some accidents cannot be avoided, and we are here to help.

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