Flint Bicycle Accident Lawyer

To Prevent Collisions and Injuries, Cyclists Must Always Ride Defensively‍

As the amount of cyclists increases, the number of collisions involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like a lot of other vehicle crashes, a number of them happen at intersections. A number of these collisions are the result of drivers who seem to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roadways. They neglect to look for bicyclists when making turns or driving through intersections. These kinds of collisions are exacerbated by overly large and busy intersections. Additionally, bicyclists are put at risk by rapidly changing traffic signals that might turn red before they completely cross the intersection.

‍What Are the Most Prevalent Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

‍Several of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include:

‍Drivers failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections

‍Some drivers may 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 bicyclist and a vehicle are sharing the street while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are among the most hazardous areas for vehicles and bicyclists. Intersections are one of the major areas where collisions leading to devastating injuries occur.

‍A driver failing to observe bicyclists on the road

‍Drivers not seeing a cyclist when driving is a common cause of an accident involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists should take safety measures to reduce this very avoidable cause of bike collisions. Bicyclists can utilize safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored apparel to help lower the possibility of a crash. Likewise, drivers should understand that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers need to be especially careful at intersections, near bike lanes, and in locations with a lot of bike commuters.

‍Motorists encroaching into bike lanes

‍Even while riding within the boundaries of a bike lane, cyclists must be alert at all times for distracted and careless drivers. Vehicles can unintentionally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after only a few seconds of inattention. This can potentially cause a bicyclist to suffer serious injuries.

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

‍As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a serious danger to bicyclists, particularly in urban settings. These accidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can lead to 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 cyclist to prevent being the victim of a dooring.

‍Distracted drivers hitting a bicyclist

‍Distracted driving is one of the biggest problems for roadway safety that we experience today. As smartphones have become a huge part of our everyday lives, many people find it difficult to put down their phones even while driving. Distracted motorists are clearly a danger to other vehicles. But they are even more dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians because they have practically zero protection if they are hit. Someone that is distracted by texting, eating, or a variety of other reasons may divert into bike lanes. Likewise, they may not notice a cyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a cyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big problem that it's been identified as the leading cause of bicycle crashes involving automobiles.

‍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 cause major repercussions for pedestrians and bicyclists. Bicyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while people are backing out because of their smaller size and their low noise levels. Backup cameras and sensors are starting to minimize these types of collisions. However motorists can not depend 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 Flint is the best way to avoid accidents and injuries. When riding in traffic, bicyclists need to do the following:

• Obey the rules of the road
• Assume that vehicles and drivers will fail to see you
• Provide vehicles a wide berth
• Regularly yield to cars under certain conditions when you do not know if a driver has seen you
• You should have appropriate safety 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
• Comply with all posted traffic laws
• Ride with the flow of traffic
• Use bike lanes whenever possible
• Make sure your bicycle is in good working condition
• Stay 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 vital 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.
• Exchange information with the motorist that hit you. Photograph of his or her driver's license and insurance coverage card.
• Take multiple photos of your bike, the car that hit you, and the scene of the crash.
• Obtain witness information from anyone that happened to see the collision. Do not miss this step, as police officers don't always take down witness information and you may need it later.
• If needed, seek medical attention immediately.
• Consult with a knowledgeable bike accident lawyer in Flint. Do this prior to calling the other party's insurance company.

Contact a Flint Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Marko Law

‍If you sustain an injury in an accident with a motor vehicle while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you should consult with a qualified bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. He or she will help determine whether you may have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death case against a negligent motorist. At Marko Law, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers assist bicyclists in pursuing cases against negligent motorists who have caused major injuries. We know how to receive all of the compensation you deserve for your injuries, whether that means filing a lawsuit or pursuing a remedy through other means.

‍Contact Us Today to Get a Free Consultation

‍If you are ready to start your case or need more information about a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Flint, 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.