A bike accident lawyer with experience knows how to pursue cases where a bicyclist has been hit by a motorist. While bike rider death statistics are going down in the U.S., more riders are being injured. Take a look at some of these statistics:
• More injuries are occurring amongst bike riders. In 2009, 51,000 riders were injured, up from 43,000 in 2007.
• The average age of a cyclist killed on U.S. roads is 41.
• Reported in 2008, alcohol played a role in 37% of bicycle related accident deaths.
• Bike deaths represent 2% of all traffic fatalities.
• People are, however, getting the message about bike safety. In 2009, 630 bicyclists died on US roads compared to 718 in 2008, 1,003 in 1975.
• Nevada law states that riders under the age of 17 must wear a helmet if you are riding in the Duckwater Indian Reservation or Reno/Sparks Indian Colony.
Bike Accident Lawyer’s Advice on How to Avoid an Accident
Avoid being in an accident by following tips provided by a bike accident lawyer:
• When riding at night always use a front headlight so oncoming vehicles can see you.
• Make eye contact or wave at drivers so you know they see you.
• Slow down if you can’t make eye contact with drivers—if you have to stop, please do so; it’s better than getting hit.
• Ride toward the left of the bike lane so cars are more likely to see you.
•Ride with traffic instead of going against it.
• When riding with traffic, don’t stop in the car’s blind spot. Instead stop directly behind the car rather than to the right of it.
• Look behind you when making turns to ensure you don’t get side-swiped.
