Dearborn Height Bicycle Accident Lawyer

To Prevent Collisions and Injuries, Cyclists Need to Always Ride Defensively

‍As the number of cyclists increases, the number of collisions involving bikes will also likely grow. And, like many other car crashes, a large number of them occur at intersections. Many of these collisions are the result of motorists that appear to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roadways. They fail to look out for cyclists when making turns or moving through intersections. These kinds of collisions are worsened by excessively large and busy intersections. Furthermore, bicyclists are endangered by quickly changing traffic signals that might turn red before they completely cross the intersection.

‍What Are the Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

‍Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents involve:

‍Drivers failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections

‍Some motorists may not be familiar with the rules of the road when dealing with cyclists sharing the road. This lack of awareness can be especially hazardous when a bicyclist and a vehicle are sharing the roadway while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for vehicles and bicyclists. Intersections are one of the main locations where crashes leading to devastating injuries take place.

‍A motorist failing to observe cyclists on the road

‍Drivers not seeing a cyclist when driving is a common reason for a crash involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists should take safety measures to reduce this very avoidable cause of bike accidents.Cyclists can utilize safety accessories like side view mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored apparel to help lower the possibility of a crash. Likewise, motorists need to realize that cars are not the only vehicles they need to look out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers need to be particularly mindful at intersections, near bike lanes, and in locations with a large number of bike commuters.

‍Drivers encroaching into bike lanes

‍Even while riding within the boundaries of a bike lane, cyclists need to be alert at all times for distracted and reckless motorists. Cars can unintentionally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after just a few seconds of distraction. This can possibly cause a cyclist to sustain serious injuries.

‍Bicycle doorings when a motorist or passenger does not pay attention while opening a car door

‍As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a serious threat to cyclists, especially in urban settings. These incidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can cause catastrophic injuries like brain injuries, neck and back injuries, facial damage, and long-lasting pain and suffering. Engaging in defensive riding techniques is the best way for a bicyclist to prevent being the victim of a dooring.

‍Distracted motorists hitting a bicyclist

‍Distracted driving is one of the greatest problems for road safety that we experience today. As smartphones have become a huge part of our everyday lives, many individuals find it hard to put down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a risk to other vehicles. However they are even more dangerous to cyclists and pedestrians since they have practically zero protection if they are struck. Somebody that is distracted by texting, eating, or a myriad of other reasons might veer into bike lanes. Likewise, they might not notice a cyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a bicyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big problem that it's been identified as the leading reason for bicycle accidents involving automobiles.

‍Drivers neglecting to yield to bicyclists while pulling in and out of driveways or parking lots

‍When a driver that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not completely assess their surroundings, it can result in major repercussions for pedestrians and bicyclists. Cyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while individuals are backing out because of their smaller size and their reduced noise levels. Backup cameras and sensors are starting to minimize these types of accidents. However motorists can not rely on these technologies in place of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.

‍How Can I Prevent a Bike Accident?

‍Following appropriate safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Dearborn Heights is the best way to avoid accidents and injuries. When riding in traffic, cyclists need to do the following:

• Obey the rules of the road
• Assume that vehicles and motorists will fail to see you
• Give cars a wide berth
• Occasionally yield to motor vehicles under certain conditions when you do not know if a motorist has seen you
• You should have proper safety gear

How Can I Protect Myself in a Bicycle Accident?

• Wear a properly-fitting helmet
• Wear bright or reflective apparel
• Use a bike light, reflectors, and reflective tape
• Comply with all posted traffic laws
• Flight with the flow of traffic
• Use bike lanes whenever possible
• Make sure your bicycle is in good working condition
• Remain alert at all times and avoid distracted riding

What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?

‍If you get hurt in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:

• Call 911 and file a police report. Do not let a driver talk you into not making a police report. That can result in issues later on.
• Exchange information with the motorist that hit you. Photograph of his or her driver's license and insurance coverage card.
• Take multiple pictures of your bike, the car that hit you, and the scene of the crash.
• Obtain witness information from anybody that happened to see the accident. Do not bypass this step, as authorities don't always record witness details and you may need it later on.
• If needed, get medical attention immediately.
• Consult with an experienced bike accident lawyer in Dearborn Height. Do this before calling the other side's insurance carrier.

Contact a Dearborn Height Bicycle Accident Attorney at Marko Law

‍If you sustain an injury in a collision with a car while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you should talk to a knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer immediately. They will help figure out whether you may have a valid personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent driver. At Marko Law, our experienced bicycle accident attorneys help cyclists in pursuing claims against negligent drivers who have caused major injuries. We understand how to collect all of the compensation you deserve for your injuries, whether that means filing a claim or seeking a solution through other methods.

‍Contact Us Today to Get a Free Consultation

‍If you are ready to start your case or need more information about bicycle accident lawyers in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, contact Marko Law Firm today. Let us represent you as you seek justice and compensation for your pain and damages. Call (313) 777-7LAW today to get a free consultation or visit our website: MarkoLaw.com to get more information.