Bicycling has become a popular form of recreation for Tennessee residents. In addition, many people are turning to bikes as an alternative form of transportation outside of passenger vehicles. However, the designs of most roads leave bicyclists vulnerable to car and commercial vehicles. It is not uncommon for bicyclists to be involved in vehicle crashes.
If you or a loved one was involved in a bicycle accident that was caused by a negligent driver, you may have grounds for legal action. Contact a Knoxville bicycle accident lawyer today to explore your legal options.
For additional information about filing a personal injury claim, complete the Free Case Review form on this page.
Statistics on Car vs. Bicycle Accidents
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 52,000 bicyclists were injured in motor vehicle accidents in 2010. Listed below are more surprising statistics on car vs. bicycle accidents:
- According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, in 2009, approximately 33 percent of fatal bicycle accidents took place at intersections.
- Studies have shown that off-road bike paths, on-road marked bike lanes and on-road bike routes, are the safest places for cyclists.
- For commuters that ride their bikes to work, the average accident rate is equivalent to one accident every 8 years.
- When New York City added protected bike lanes, bicycle injury crashes decreased by 40-50 percent in several locations.
- Nearly one-third of bicycle accidents that occurred in 2010 happened between 4 p.m. -7:59 p.m.
- In 2010, the average age of bicyclists killed in traffic crashes was 42, according to the NHTSA.
If you or a loved one was injured in a Tennessee bicycle accident, contact Greg Coleman Law today.
Common Car vs. Bicycle Accident Injuries
When a car or commercial vehicle hits a bike rider, it often results in critical and life-threatening injuries for the bicyclists. Injuries commonly seen in bicycle accidents include:
- Bone fractures
- Lacerations
- Road rash
- Head injuries
- Brain injuries
- Back and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Death
If your family member was killed in a bicycle accident due to a negligent driver, contact a wrongful death lawyer to learn about the legal rights available to an accident victims family.
How to Avoid a Bicycle Wreck
When drivers and bicyclists are sharing the road they can avoid car vs. bicycle accidents by remaining alert. Tennessee motorists need to recognize that bike riders, also referred to as pedalcyclists, have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers do.
Drivers can avoid hitting a bike rider by following the tips below:
- Be cautious on two-lane roads. Nearly 60 percent of all bicycle collisions occur on roads where vehicles travel at high speed on narrow lanes.
- Stay focused on the task of driving. Distracted driving increases your chances of being in a crash.
- Drive at safe speed for the current weather and road conditions.
- Never drive while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
Additionally, bicyclists should take the following precautions to avoid being hit by a car:
- Keep both hands on the handlebars to have complete control of your bike.
- If you are going to ride your bike at night, make sure that you have flashing lights on your bicycle.
- When going through intersections avoid riding next to cars. You should always merge into traffic when riding through intersections.
- Never attempt to make a left-hand turn from a designated bike lane. To turn safely, you should merge into the left lane. Do not cut in front of vehicles, the driver may not be aware that you are on the road.
- Wear a helmet every time your ride your bicycle. In the event of a collision, a bicycle helmet may prevent you from sustaining severe injuries, such as a skull fracture or a brain injury. Tennessee law requires that anyone under the age of 16 must wear a helmet when operating a bicycle or when they are a passenger.
Knoxville Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Bicycle crashes can be complex cases to handle. At times, it can be difficult to determine who the liable party was. Oftentimes, these case come down to who had the right-of-way. At
Greg Coleman Law, we urge all bicycle accident victims to seek legal guidance. A skilled attorney can review the circumstances of the accident and recommend the best legal remedy to pursue.
Our attorneys and staff are dedicated to helping injured individuals receive the justice that they deserve. We have helped numerous Tennessee residents receive favorable outcomes for their legal claims.
To learn more about bicycle accident lawsuits, fill out the contact form on the right.
