Bicyclists in California Face Serious Injuries in Crashes

California is one of the few states that can boast beautiful weather throughout the year. As such, you might enjoy taking an alternative form of transportation, such as walking, rollerblading or bicycling, to enjoy the weather. No matter what season it is, if you’re biking to work or just out for exercise and fun, you may face serious injuries from a bicycle accident if your route takes you close to traffic. At the Cowan Law Group, we understand the risks you face that may necessitate legal services in Orange County.

In a bike crash, it is usually the bicyclist who fares the worst. On a bicycle, you do not have the same protections in a collision that those inside a vehicle have, and you are therefore much more vulnerable. When you and your bike are pitted against a fast-moving vehicle that can weigh two tons or more, you would hardly stand a chance.

California Helmet Laws

What if you were wearing a helmet? According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, California is one out of only 21 states that have enacted some type of bicycle helmet law. Bicyclists under the age of 18 in California are required to wear helmets. A helmet provides some measure of protection in a bicycle accident, but cannot protect against broken bones or all head injuries. If you are over 18, you might even decide not to wear a helmet at all, which can greatly increase your risk of suffering a traumatic brain injury in a crash.

Other common bicycle crash injuries include broken bones – especially to the extremities – sprains and strains, lacerations, internal injuries and road rash.

National Bike Accident Statistics

What information should you know regarding the times and locations you are most likely to get into a bike crash, as well as your overall risks? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that more than 786,000 people bike to work every day throughout the United States. Out of all traffic crashes in 2012, about 2 percent of fatalities and 2 percent of injuries involved bicyclists. Nearly half of all bicyclist deaths happen between 4:00 pm and 12:00 am, which can coincide with the times people are getting out of work or school. Not surprisingly, most of these crashes occur in busy urban areas.

Many cities in California and across the country are attempting to address this serious issue by strengthening laws that make drivers more accountable for bicyclists’ safety. Additionally, bike lanes and bike-friendly paths located away from busy traffic areas have been constructed. If you are a frequent bike rider, you may have already made use of many of these bike paths and road lanes. These conveniences can greatly improve your safety, but are not a complete guarantee that you won’t be struck by an inattentive or inconsiderate driver.

You should also know that children are especially vulnerable, although anyone can be injured in a bicycle accident. The summer months can be dangerous while kids are out of school, but school months are also risky, as many children ride their bikes to and from school. Bicyclists who have been injured by an intoxicated, negligent or distracted driver may find help by contacting legal services in Orange County for injury compensation.

Stacy Toolson is a writer that simply loves words. She can spend hours discussing 'their' vs 'there', and the placement of an Oxford comma.