Bicycle accidents are more common than you might think, and have risen by 25 percent since 2010. In 2018 alone, there were more than 850 bicyclist fatalities. When a bike and car collide, the bicyclist has the highest risk and usually sustains significant injuries. If you or a friend or loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, you will need a lawyer to keep your best interests in mind. The legal team at The Musgrove Trial Firm helps people who have been involved in a bike accident see just compensation. Contact us at 678-226-1994 to schedule a free consultation, or read more about bike accidents in Atlanta, GA below.
Common Types of Bicycle Accidents
There are many different types of bicycle accidents, but some of the most common include:
- Vehicle in a bike lane
- Distracted driving or texting while driving/biking
- Following too closely
- Changing lanes or turning without looking in mirrors
- Parking lot and driveway accidents
- “Dooring” accidents
- Bicyclist falling over or poor road conditions
Bike Accidents in Big Cities
Because of the fast-moving traffic, congestion, and distracted driving, big cities are where the majority of bike accidents happen. In fact, 75% of cyclist fatalities occur in urban areas. Many urban areas have an increased number of bicycle
commuters, but bike lanes aren’t always designed for protection, leading to bicyclists having to swerve around open car doors and into traffic.
Ways to Avoid Bicycle Accidents
Some of the best ways to avoid bicycle accidents include:
- Staying within your lane (both cyclists and motor vehicle drivers)
- Driving without distraction (smartphones, texting, radio, etc.)
- Checking all mirrors and doing a full visual check before changing lanes or turning
- Using indicators to signal when changing lanes or turning
- Maintaining appropriate distance between cars and bicyclists (three car lengths in Georgia)
- Obeying traffic laws, including stopping at stop signs and red lights
What to Do if a Bike Accident Occurs
If you are involved in a bicycle accident, follow the steps below:
Call 911
If you can, call emergency services immediately to alert medical personnel and police of the accident.
Check for Injuries and Damages and Take Pictures
Check to see if there are any injuries. If anyone has sustained serious injuries, do not attempt to move them unless it is for their immediate safety (like being in oncoming traffic). Take photos of any injuries you have sustained, of the scene of the accident, and of any damages. Do not get any of your equipment repaired until the case is resolved.
Once the Police Arrive, Give Your Version of Events
When the police officer takes statements about what happened, make sure you give your side of the story and do not let the police leave until they take your statement. Do not admit fault or apologize until you are able to consider the cause when you are no longer under stress.
Obtain Information from All Involved Parties
Get contact, insurance, and vehicle information before leaving the scene of the accident. Additionally, try to get statements from witnesses that were able to see the accident or the aftermath. Document all information you gather for your case.
Document and Track Injuries and Medical Care
If you were injured, take photos of the initial injuries and the weeks of healing afterward. It’s also important to document all medical care given and the costs associated.
Call the Bicycle Accident Attorneys at The Musgrove Trial Firm in Atlanta, GA
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, please contact The Musgrove Trial Firm at 678-226-1994 today for experienced legal care. Let us help you following a serious bike accident in Atlanta, GA.
