Bicycling is a popular mode of transportation for commuting, exercise, or leisure across urban landscapes—but are bike crashes normal? Bicycling is not inherently risky, but cycling on America’s roads has significant risks. The mix of dense traffic, numerous bicyclists, and occasionally negligent drivers commonly lead to accidents, and the combination of risk factors in urban environments increases the likelihood of crashes involving cyclists. As a result, close to 1,000 cyclists lose their lives, and upwards of 130,000 sustain injuries in road accidents across the U.S. each year, according to the CDC.

These accidents frequently happen when drivers fail to yield the right of way or because bicyclists aren’t visible enough to drivers.

A Closer Look at 6 Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

The following scenarios contribute significantly to the occurrence of bicycle crashes:

• Driver Inattention: Modern distractions such as texting have increased the risks for drivers and bicyclists, making awareness of one’s surroundings crucial.
• Failure to Yield: Proper yielding at intersections is critical; many accidents occur when drivers overlook this duty.
• The “Right Hook” and “Rear-End” Accidents: Right hook accidents occur at intersections, while rear-end accidents occur when a vehicle overtakes a bicycle, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities.
• Wrong-Way Riding and Driveway Hazards: Riding against traffic or emerging from driveways can create unexpected obstacles for drivers and cyclists.
• Low Visibility Conditions: Riding at night significantly increases the risk due to decreased visibility. Appropriate lights and reflective clothing are essential but sometimes insufficient to prevent accidents.
• “Dooring” and Proximity to Parked Vehicles: Urban areas with frequent street parking increase the risk of “dooring” accidents, where a driver opens their car door in the path of an oncoming cyclist.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Securing expert legal representation is crucial given the complexities of bicycle accidents, especially those leading to severe injuries. Law firms like Burnett & Williams specialize in personal injury cases, including those involving bicyclists. They understand the importance of meticulous preparation, from accident reconstruction to negotiating with insurance companies, ensuring their clients receive the maximum possible compensation.

Choosing Burnett & Williams for Bicycle Accident Claims

Unfortunately, bike crashes are normal, and choosing the right law firm is vital to achieving a positive outcome for bicycle accident cases. For customers in Virginia, Burnett & Williams is here to ensure your rights are protected, and you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Our commitment extends beyond legal expertise; we focus on compassionate and personalized legal counsel with individual attention, expert guidance, and unwavering support. We advocate for our client’s rights and with dedication to achieving the best results for those we represent.

If you or a loved one becomes involved in a bicycle accident, contact Burnett & Williams. We are here to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.