Dearborn Bicycle Accident Lawyer

To Avoid Collisions and Injuries, Cyclists Must Always Ride Defensively‍

As the number of bicyclists increases, the number of accidents involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like many other car crashes, a number of them happen at intersections.A lot of these collisions are the result of motorists who appear to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roadways. They neglect to look out for cyclists when making turns or driving through intersections. These kinds of collisions are exacerbated by excessively large and busy intersections. Furthermore, bicyclists are put at risk by quickly changing traffic signals that may turn red before they completely cross the intersection.

‍What Are the Most Frequent Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

‍Several of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include:

‍Drivers failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections

‍Some motorists might not be familiar with the rules of the road when dealing with cyclists sharing the roadway. This lack of understanding can be particularly hazardous when a cyclist and a car are sharing the road while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are among the most hazardous places for vehicles and cyclists. Intersections are one of the major areas where collisions leading to devastating injuries take place.

‍A driver failing to observe cyclists when driving

‍Motorists not seeing a cyclist when driving is a common reason for a collision involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists need to take preventative measures to reduce this very avoidable cause of bike accidents.Bicyclists can use safety accessories like side view mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored clothing to help lower the possibility of a crash. Likewise, drivers should realize that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for when driving. Motor vehicle drivers need to be especially cautious at intersections, near bike lanes, and in areas with a lot of bike commuters.

‍Motorists encroaching into bike lanes

‍Even while riding within the boundaries of a bike lane, bicyclists must be alert at all times for distracted and reckless drivers. Cars can inadvertently or intentionally drift into a bike lane after just a few seconds of distraction. This can potentially cause a cyclist to suffer major injuries.

‍Bicycle doorings when a driver or passenger doesn't pay attention while opening a car door

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

‍Distracted motorists hitting a bicyclist

‍Distracted driving is one of the biggest problems for road safety that we face today. As cell phones have become a huge part of our daily lives, many people find it difficult to set down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a danger to other vehicles. But they are even more dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians because they have almost zero protection if they are struck. Someone who is distracted by texting, eating, or a myriad of other things might divert into bike lanes. Likewise, they may not notice a bicyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a cyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big concern that it's been identified as the leading reason for bicycle accidents involving cars.

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

‍When a motorist that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not completely check their surroundings, it can lead to major consequences for pedestrians and bicyclists. Bicyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while individuals are backing out due to their smaller size and their low noise levels. Backup cameras and sensors are starting to lessen these types of accidents. However drivers can not rely on these technologies instead of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.

‍How Can I Avoid a Bike Accident?

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

• Follow the rules of the road
• Assume that cars and drivers will fail to see you
• Provide cars a wide berth
• Periodically yield to cars under certain conditions when you do not know if a driver has seen you
• You should have appropriate protective gear

How Can I Protect Myself in a Bicycle Accident?

• Use a properly-fitting helmet
• Wear bright or reflective clothing
• Use a bike light, reflectors, and reflective tape
• Follow all posted traffic laws
• Ride with the circulation 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 injured in a bicycle accident, it is important to do the following:

• Call 911 and make a police report. Do not let a motorist talk you into not making a police report. That can lead to issues later on.
• Exchange information with the motorist that hit you. Photograph of his or her driver's license and insurance card.
• Take several photos of your bike, the vehicle that hit you, and the scene of the accident.
• Get witness information from anybody that happened to see the accident. Do not skip this step, as police officers don't always record witness info and you could need it later on.
• If needed, seek medical attention right away.
• Contact an experienced bike accident lawyer in Dearborn. Do this prior to calling the other side's insurance carrier.

Contact a Dearborn Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Marko Law

‍If you sustain an injury in a collision with an automobile while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you need to speak with an experienced bicycle accident attorney right away. They will help determine whether you might have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent driver.At Marko Law, our skilled bicycle accident lawyers help cyclists in seeking claims against negligent motorists who have caused severe injuries. We understand how to receive all of the compensation you deserve for your injuries, whether that means filing a claim or seeking a solution using other means.

‍Contact Us Today to Get a Free Consultation

‍If you are ready to start your case or need more information about Bicycle Accidents in Dearborn, 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.