Bicyclists are at significant risk of getting into accidents after pedestrians. It is the responsibility of everyone using the road to be sincerely driving or riding their vehicle and remain attentive when doing so. In New York, like any other place, bicycle accidents are not uncommon.
The number of bicycle users is increasing because of the health benefits that it provides. It is also essential that their safety is taken care of. The vulnerabilities associated with bicycling cannot be overlooked. Almost around 1,000 fatalities are received per year in the United States alone.
As a result, bicyclists can receive severe injuries, and it can even potentially lead to death. Therefore, it is essential that they know about their rights and how to see compensation if they get into an accident.
Other road users need to be cautious of people using the road alongside them. Kelner & Kelner law firm can help individuals secure their rights and get the compensation that they deserve.
Why are cyclists considered to be more prone to accidents than motorists?
There are several factors that put cyclists at significant risk of getting into accidents. Some of those factors are discussed below:
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Not having any proper physical protection:
Those who drive cars have way more protective things around them than bicyclists; they do not really have any means to protect themselves in case they come across an accident. They have no airbags or seat belts that may protect them in case an accident is about to happen.
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Challenges in visibility:
As you might already be aware, pedestrians and cyclists are hard to see when driving at night. This can increase chances for them to get into accidents quickly as compared to those who drive cars or other motorists.
The areas that receive high traffic are at greater risk, where cyclists can get into accidents because other drivers might not be able to see them on the road. The drivers, as a result, might not be able to take the precautions that they should.
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Differences in speed and crowded places:
Cyclists share the same route as other motors, who might be driving at a much higher speed. Since there is a considerable difference in which a cycle runs and a car runs, the risk of the cyclist getting into an accident increases because of the speed.
Furthermore, those who live in urban areas are at even greater risk because of traffic and other factors than those who live in rural areas.
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Bad condition of the road and hazards in the way:
If there are many potholes in the way or the road is poorly constructed, it can also lead to severe accidents, especially for those who are riding a bicycle because they can find it challenging to have the right balance. They might also collide with different obstacles in the way and thereby get into potential accidents.
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Effect of Weather conditions:
Another factor that contributes to accidents is the weather. If it is not right, then it can make it difficult for bicyclists to ride safely. For instance, if a place has received heavy rainfall, then the roads can get very slippery, making it difficult for cyclists to ride safely.
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Limited mobility of bicyclists:
While most motorists have good mobility, bicyclists have to travel at a limited speed. If there are any changes in the traffic signal, it can make it difficult for a bicyclist to adapt to it and respond to it in time. Slower speed also increases the chances of collisions.
What to do following a bicycle accident?
It is essential for an individual who gets into an accident to know what to do next. It is recommended that you seek legal assistance as the first step. The injuries or the bills can be very high for you to pay all alone. If you got into an accident because of somebody else’s fault, then you are entitled to receive compensation for it.
