Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Unfortunately, wrecks involving bicycles are on the rise. In June 2008, 716 bicycle fatalities were reported. The age of bicyclists injured and killed in bicycle accidents has increased over the last decade as well, with the average age of fatalities rising from 32 to 41, and the average age of injured bikers rising from 24 to 31.

The NHTSA report proves that bicycle accidents continue to be a problem for all age groups - not just children cyclists. It is important that all bicyclists understand what causes wrecks involving bicycles in an effort to avoid them.

Drivers Being Unaware of Cyclists

The single biggest cause of bicycle wrecks is the car's driver "not seeing" the bicycle. The most common bicycle wreck scenario is when a vehicle overtakes a cyclist and then turns right in front of the bicycle, causing a wreck. This is also when some of the most severe injuries can occur.

Another common cause of car wrecks where drivers don't see bicyclists is when vehicles are exiting parking lots. Cars exiting parking lots are looking toward the center of the street for oncoming traffic; not looking at the side where bicyclists may be riding. In many cases, these cars or trucks pull straight out in front of an oncoming bicycle or even into an oncoming bicycle while they are checking traffic.

Alchohol is a Factor

In 37% of the fatal wrecks involving bicycles, either the car driver or the bicyclist was under the influence of alcohol. Over 28% of bicyclists involved in fatal wrecks had a measurable blood alcohol level, and 23% of those people were over the legal limit for alcohol consumption. Whether you're driving an automobile or riding a bicycle, drinking and operating a vehicle can be fatal.

U-Turns, Road Debris, Rear-End Collisions and Car Doors

As if that was not enough hazard for bicyclists to navigate, cyclists also have the potential for bicycle wrecks with cars making U-turns, wrecks because of road debris, motor vehicles rear-ending bicyclists, or even autos opening car doors in bicyclists' paths. All of these can cause serious and even fatal accidents, so know your road rules and be prepared to pursue a bicycle wreck case when you're involved in an accident.