Bicycles are a common method of transportation in Daytona Beach. Although there are several bicycle laws in place to protect riders, we continue to see them harmed in crashes on our roadways due to reckless drivers.
These bicycle accidents can lead to severe injuries that have long-lasting effects on the lives of those involved. Whether you are an avid cyclist or simply curious about road safety, understanding why bicycle accidents are so dangerous is crucial for everyone sharing the streets.
It is also vital to recognize the importance of seeking help from a Daytona Beach bike accident lawyer if you are harmed in a crash.
Common Types of Bicycle Accidents
Several types of bicycle accidents are reported here in Daytona Beach, including the following.
Rear-end Collisions
These incidents occur when drivers crash into the rear end of bicyclists. These accidents often occur due to drivers being distracted while behind the wheel.
Intersection Accidents
Bicycle accidents at intersections take place often because drivers fail to yield the right of way. In some cases, drivers will proceed through intersections when they do not have the right to do so. Most often, these accidents involve drivers who turn at intersections without checking bicycle lanes.
Dooring Incidents
Dooring incidents occur when a cyclist is struck by the door of a parked car that is suddenly opened without warning. These often happen when cyclists are riding in bicycle lanes near parked cars, and a driver or passenger opens the car door into the path of the oncoming cyclist.
Sideswipe Collisions
These bicycle accidents often happen when a vehicle passes too close to a cyclist without maintaining a safe distance. It may also occur during lane changes or when a cyclist is riding close to traffic.
Left-Turn Accidents
Left-turn accidents occur when a motorist makes a left turn at an intersection or into a driveway without yielding to an oncoming cyclist.
Any bicycle accident has the potential to cause severe harm to a rider.
Factors that Contribute to the Severity of Bicycle Accidents
There are several reasons why bicycle accidents often result in such severe injuries for those involved.
Lack of Protection
While helmets offer crucial protection for the head, not all cyclists consistently use them. Even when riders utilize helmets, the rest of their body is completely vulnerable to the impact of a collision.
Speeding Drivers
Bicycles do not generally travel fast. When they are struck by speeding vehicles, it can exacerbate the severity of injuries. High-speed accidents further increase the risk of riders being ejected from their bikes, which can result in secondary collisions.
Road Conditions
Inadequate road signs, poorly maintained roads, and not having a dedicated bicycle lane can increase the risk of severe bicycle collisions.
After being hurt in an accident, a bicycle accident attorney in Daytona Beach can help you identify who is responsible and take legal action against them.
Serious Injuries Reported in Bicycle Accidents
Due to the above factors, bicyclists are at a heightened risk of severe injuries in accidents. Some common injuries that our bicycle accident attorney in Daytona Beach helps victims recover from include:
Head Injuries
Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function and overall quality of life.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The forceful impact on the spine can result in fractures or damage to the spinal cord itself. This type of injury may lead to paralysis or loss of motor function below the injury site, affecting an individual’s independence and mobility.
Broken Bones
Cyclists often try to break their fall using their arms, leading to wrist fractures or collarbone breaks. Additionally, leg fractures are common due to direct impact with a vehicle or other objects during an accident.
Internal Organ Injuries
Bicyclists are more likely to suffer internal organ injuries in accidents since their bodies are directly struck by vehicles in many cases. Internal organ injuries can include those affecting the lungs, liver, spleen, heart, and other vital organs.
Severe Cuts and Lacerations
Bicyclists are often ejected onto the roadway, which increases the likelihood of severe cuts and lacerations caused by striking the roadway or other hard objects. These injuries can lead to permanent scarring and, in severe cases, nerve and muscle damage.
A serious injury from a bicycle accident can require extensive and costly medical care. For this reason, you must seek help from a bicycle accident attorney in Daytona Beach as soon as possible. A dedicated legal team can help you recover compensation for medical costs, lost earnings, property damage, and more.
Call Our Daytona Beach Bike Accident Lawyer Now
At Zimmet & Zimmet, our experienced Daytona Beach bike accident lawyer is committed to helping you get justice after being harmed in a bicycle accident. We are dedicated to fighting for your rights and obtaining your deserved compensation. Let us use our knowledge, dedication, and resources to handle every aspect of your case so that you can focus on healing and moving forward. Contact our Florida personal injury law firm today for a free consultation.
