Because of their size bicyclists are more vulnerable to the inattentiveness of drivers. The majority of accidents between bikes and cars occur at intersections and since the driver of the car may be checking email or texting at the stop sign, cyclists need to be extra vigilant about being sure that drivers see them. As an avid cyclist myself, I handle quite a few bicycle accidents involving cars or trucks. One recent settlement was in excess of $100,000 for a broken wrist(but remember past results are no indication of future results and every case is different). If you are the victim of a car hitting you on your bike call a Springfield Missouri Bicycle Injury Attorney immediately.
You should keep all damaged clothes and equipment, including the bike and helmet.
Broadside or Right Angle
Bicycle accident where a bicyclist hits or is hit by a vehicle on a perpendicular roadway or driveway. The car may not stop if signs require it to, or it may proceed again without realizing a cyclist is taking its turn at the intersection.
Overtaking Turn or Right Hook
Bicycle accident where a bicyclist hits or is hit by a vehicle traveling in the same direction as the bicyclist, approaching from behind, and turns right,crossing the path of the bike. An especially frustrating and seemingly avoidable kind of accident as surely the car sees the cyclist if it just passed the bike.
Approach Turn or Left Cross
Bicycle accident where a bicyclist hits or is hit by a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction and turning right or left. Again, the car failed to stop or yield or proceed through without realizing a bike was approaching.
Sideswipe
Bicycle accident where a bicyclist hits or is hit by a vehicle traveling in the same direction or opposite direction as the bicyclist, or the car is changing lanes, passing or weaving. This type of bicycle accident can be fatal as high rates of speed can be involved.
Rear End or Hit from Behind
Bicycle accident similar to this between type of accident between two cars. The vehicle does see the bike or misjudges the distance and hits the bicycle from behind. This type of bicycle accident accounts for many fatalities.
Remember, bikes are to ride on the same side of the road as cars. Don’t confuse things by riding on the sidewalk or the wrong side of the road. Be cautious and aware, but also be confident. If you are injured in a bicycle accident, call an Springfield Missouri Bicycle attorney who also is a cyclist–Jason Krebs of The Krebs Law Firm.