Bicycling offers an environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and enjoyable way to stay active and explore the outdoors. However, cyclists are more vulnerable on the road compared to those in motor vehicles like cars and trucks. Without the protection of an enclosed vehicle body, riders have limited defense against the impact of a collision.

According to data from the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, there were 50 bicyclist fatalities reported across the state in 2022. Meanwhile, the CDC estimates over 130,000 bicycle-related injuries occur annually nationwide.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle accident in Central New York, a Syracuse bicycle accident lawyer can help determine your grounds for a claim and guide you through the legal process.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

While enjoying a bike ride, several factors can increase your risk of an accident. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Failure to Yield Right of Way: A top cause of bike crashes is a cyclist’s or driver’s failure to yield the right of way. Intersections and other crossing points are high-risk areas where both parties must remain alert and follow traffic laws and signals.

• Distracted Riding/Driving: Distracted riding/driving compromises safety on the road, putting everyone at risk of an accident. For drivers, distractions can include using a phone, eating, or adjusting the radio. Cyclists are at risk when using their phones, wearing earbuds, or not paying full attention to their surroundings.

• Poor Visibility: Poor visibility is a common issue in bicycle accidents. At night or in low light, drivers might not notice cyclists, especially if they aren’t wearing reflective clothing or using bike lighting and reflectors. 56% of bicyclist deaths happen during night-time conditions or at dusk or dawn.

• Road Hazards: Road hazards such as potholes, loose gravel, debris, pooled water, ice, and uneven surfaces can cause drivers and cyclists to lose control. These surface conditions could result in sudden swerving and collisions if not spotted and avoided in time.

• Increased Summer Traffic: The warm summer months see a rise in vehicular traffic and the number of cyclists on New York roads as more people are out enjoying the weather. Increased interactions between cars and bikes heighten accident risks, with 34% of rider fatalities in the U.S. occurring from June to August in the U.S.

Staying Safe on Two Wheels

While you can’t control all variables as a cyclist, there are several precautions and best practices you can follow to prevent accidents. When riding in New York, keep these tips in mind:

• Always Wear a Helmet: In New York State, cyclists under 14 must wear CPSC-approved helmets to reduce head injury risks. Properly fitted helmets can help prevent catastrophic head injuries in crashes or falls for riders of all ages.

• Ride Defensively: Remain hyper-aware of your surroundings and ride defensively. This means anticipating potential hazards on the road and from other vehicles and pedestrians.

• Use Lights and Reflectors: Working front and rear lights, along with reflectors on clothing and safety equipment, give riders maximum visibility to drivers, especially in low-light conditions. It’s also required for cyclists riding between 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise.

• Obey Traffic Laws: Bicycles must follow the same traffic laws and regulations as other vehicles. Running red lights or stop signs, riding against traffic, and distracted cycling puts riders at serious risk.

• Maintain Your Bike: Keep your bicycle well-maintained with properly inflated tires, working brakes, and functioning gears. This helps you operate it safely and avoid mechanical failures on the road.

• Be Prepared for Weather: Rain, snow, and other adverse conditions make cycling more hazardous. Adjust your riding for the weather, slow down, and use extra caution to account for reduced traction and visibility.

• Choose Safe Routes: When possible, plan cycling routes using streets with dedicated bike lanes, low traffic volumes and speeds, and minimal potential road hazards like potholes or construction.

Arrange Your Free Injury Consultation Today

Even when following all safety precautions, bicycle accidents can still occur due to the negligence of others on the road. If you or a loved one has been injured in a cycling crash caused by someone else’s reckless actions, you deserve experienced legal representation.

Our bicycle accident lawyers at Catalano Law defend the rights of the injured throughout Central New York, with a 95% success rate in winning settlements or jury verdicts for victims. We can help you get the financial support you need after a collision.

Contact us today for a free consultation to review your case and discuss your options for pursuing maximum compensation.