Statistically, more road accidents involve bicyclists than other types of drivers on the road. Some of the most frequent collisions occur due to motor vehicle drivers doing unsafe lane changes and driving too close to bike shoulders and lanes. Additionally, it would seem drivers of covered vehicles tend to hit bicyclists more often than uncovered vehicles.
Bicyclists face more risks on the road than other drivers, even though they are entitled to the same rights and privileges. Drivers constantly put bicyclists through dangerous situations through negligent driving, distracted driving, and several other factors. Speaking to personal injury attorneys at Doroshow Pasquale Krawitz and Bhaya at this time can be quite effective. Below are some common reasons drivers hit bicyclists and what both parties can do to drop this trend.
Less Cover for Bicyclists
Vehicles and bicycles sharing the same road is already dangerous as it is, given the general size and weight disparity between the two. As a result, bicyclists are disadvantaged because it is often harder to spot smaller vehicles from the side of a car, truck, or van. Additionally, bicyclists have less cover than motor vehicle drivers, with nothing protecting them from the potential dangers outside.
Besides a helmet, bicyclists wear very little covering, which puts them at high risk in an accident. Even the smallest impact with a vehicle can result in a bicyclist’s injury.
Drivers Do Not Anticipate Bicycles
Another cause of vehicle-bicycle collisions is that many vehicle drivers anticipate other drivers, not bicyclists. That means it is more likely for a driver to keep an eye out for an incoming car than for a bicycle. Many drivers fail to think about the chances of a cyclist suddenly appearing, even if the chances are high. Since cyclists are becoming more common by the day, vehicle drivers should be cautious of them.
For a cyclist, careless driving by a car or truck at even low speeds can be extremely dangerous, let alone excessive speeding. This lack of anticipation of cyclists will often lead to the types of road crashes we witness today. It particularly becomes a problem when the driver is speeding, which further limits the time they have to make driving decisions.
Running Red Lights
Drivers’ failure to heed red lights and stop signs is another common cause of vehicle-bicycle collisions or intersection accidents. This case is very common in suburban areas and neighborhoods, as well as in urban locations like city centers. Often, cyclists don’t have enough time to react to a speeding car that’s heading their way.
Running a red light is risky even for the motor vehicle driver, but it can be disastrous for cyclists. When drivers fail to consider cyclists and drive through a red light, they magnify the risks already associated with running red lights.
Tiredness
Another cause of collisions between a driver and a bicyclist is tiredness. Driving while you are tired is similar to drunk driving because the driver is partially impaired. Moreover, studies have confirmed that the severity of the results of driving while tired is similar to those of drunk driving.
Unsafe Lane Change
Sometimes, collisions result from drivers making unsafe lane changes, which is why bicyclists suffer the most. These types of accidents often occur because drivers merge into or drive through cyclists’ lanes without first checking and ensuring a clear lane, especially when making a right turn.
Conclusion: How Can You Limit the Occurrences?
Collisions between a vehicle and a bicycle are bound to happen at one point. However, everyone involved can take steps to reduce how often they happen by driving safely and with consideration for others.
On the one hand, drivers should pay more attention to the road and other drivers, including bicyclists. On the other hand, cyclists should put on easily noticeable safety vests and ensure their lights are strong when riding at night.
