Personal Injury Lawyer Atlanta Illinois | 4 Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycling is a popular activity in Illinois, providing a healthy and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. However, with the increasing number of cyclists on the road, the risk of accidents has also risen. If you have been involved in an accident, our personal injury lawyer Atlanta Illinois will work to ensure you are fairly compensated. Call us today for a free consultation at 309-820-0600.
At Kelly & Castagna, our injury attorneys will help you recover medical costs, lost income, and compensation for pain and suffering. Most importantly, we will make sure that you are taken seriously and that you are cared for throughout the legal process. Understanding the common causes of bicycle accidents can help cyclists, motorists, and policymakers take steps to prevent them.
1. Motorist Negligence
One of the leading causes of bicycle accidents is motorist negligence. Drivers often fail to see or properly acknowledge cyclists on the road, leading to dangerous situations.
Common forms of motorist negligence include speeding and distracted driving. Using a cellphone, eating, or engaging in other distractions while driving can lead to drivers missing cyclists in their vicinity. Also, excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way to cyclists at intersections, driveways, and crosswalks. When a parked car’s door is opened into the path of an oncoming cyclist, it can cause serious accidents. This is a common issue in urban areas with narrow streets and limited bike lanes.
No matter the cause, it is important to have an experienced personal injury lawyer Atlanta Illinois on your side. We will work to determine who is responsible and the best course of action for your case.
2. Road Conditions
Poor road conditions significantly contribute to bicycle accidents. Cyclists are more vulnerable to hazards such as potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces. Potholes and cracks can cause cyclists to lose control and fall, especially at high speeds or during turns. Gravel, glass, and other debris can lead to tire punctures or skids.
Poorly maintained bike lanes: Inadequate maintenance of bike lanes, including overgrown vegetation and accumulated debris, can force cyclists into the main traffic lane, increasing the risk of collisions. When collisions occur, cyclists run the risk of being severely injured, so it is important that you have a caring and experienced personal injury lawyer Atlanta Illinois on your side.
3. Cyclist Behavior
While motorists are often at fault, cyclists’ actions can also contribute to accidents. Understanding safe cycling practices is crucial for preventing incidents. Risky cyclist behaviors can be even more dangerous when combined with poor road conditions and poorly maintained infrastructure.
Cyclists should ride in the same direction as traffic. Riding against traffic increases the risk of head-on collisions. Running red lights or stop signs can lead to collisions with vehicles that have the right of way. Failing to use hand signals to indicate turns or stops can lead to misunderstandings with drivers. Cycling under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents.
4. Lack of Infrastructure
The lack of proper cycling infrastructure is a significant issue in many areas. Inadequate bike lanes, poorly designed intersections, and lack of signage can all contribute to accidents. A lack of bike lanes is problematic. Without dedicated bike lanes, cyclists must share the road with vehicles, which can be dangerous.
Unsafe intersections that do not accommodate cyclists can lead to confusion and collisions. Clear signs indicating bike routes and cyclist crossings are essential for informing both cyclists and drivers. When infrastructure is inadequate and an accident occurs, our personal injury lawyer Atlanta Illinois will determine your best legal course of action.
Contact our personal injury lawyer Atlanta Illinois to pursue your legal claim
Preventing bicycle accidents requires efforts from both cyclists and motorists, as well as improved infrastructure and awareness programs. Always wear a helmet to reduce the risk of head injuries. Use lights and reflective gear, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions. Obey all traffic signals and signs, and use hand signals to indicate turns and stops.
If you are a motorist and sharing the road with cyclists, there are some important actions you can take to protect everyone on the road. Avoid distractions and always be on the lookout for cyclists, especially in urban areas and near bike lanes. Maintain a safe distance when passing cyclists, at least three feet, as required by Illinois law. Always check for oncoming cyclists before opening your car door.
Bicycle accidents in Illinois are often caused by a combination of motorist negligence, poor road conditions, adverse weather, cyclist behavior, and inadequate infrastructure. By understanding these common causes, cyclists can take steps to protect themselves, motorists can drive more responsibly, and policymakers can work towards creating safer environments for all road users. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, consulting with a personal injury lawyer Atlanta Illinois can help you understand your rights and pursue any compensation you may be entitled to. Contact us today for a free consultation.
