Bicycle accidents happen unexpectedly in most cases. Different factors increase the chances of bicycle accidents, and being aware of some of the most common causes might help you avoid them. Following certain safety tips for bicycling may decrease your chances of future accidents. If you were in an accident with someone else, consider asking a New York City bicycle accident attorney for advice.

Causes of Bicycle Accidents

There is a multitude of factors that contribute to bicycle accidents, from bicyclists and drivers alike. The most common causes of bicycle accidents involve negligence. Some of the top bicycle accident causes include:

• Inattention
  
• Failing to yield
• Driving at night
• Road hazards

Inattention impacts drivers and bicyclists. Distracted driving like texting while driving can be done by bicyclists too. Many bicyclists are now using headphones and hands-free smartphone devices like smartwatches that can pose as distractions. All it takes is a few seconds of a glance at a smartwatch to lead to an accident.

Failing to yield the right of way is a mistake both drivers and bicyclists can make. This is common in unfamiliar driving situations and four-way stops. One driver may misperceive what the bicyclist is about to do, and a collision can occur. Some drivers and bicyclists may not know what the right of way rules are for each other. This can also lead to consequential mistakes.

Driving at night or in dark places can lead to accidents when drivers do not use headlights and bicyclists have no reflective materials. Bicyclists without reflective bicycle parts or clothing run a higher risk of being struck by a car when riding at night.

Lastly, road hazards and poor road conditions can cause unexpected accidents. Road bumps, potholes, and uneven roads can all make a bicyclist lose control.

How to Avoid Bicycle Accidents

Following recommended bicycle safety tips can help reduce the chances of an accident. Just like a car, bicycles should be routinely checked, maintained, and adjusted. Failing to follow up on faulty brakes or tire issues, for example, could lead to losing control of the bike.

Wearing reflective clothes and having reflectors on the bike when riding at night is vital. So many accidents happen because of a failure to do this. Rules of the road are also important to be aware of. Bicyclists should remain in bicycle lanes or on the furthermost side of the road. Staying with the flow of traffic is as important as being out of the way of traffic.

Try contacting a New York City accident lawyer if you were hit by a driver. You could be eligible for compensation.

New York City Bicycle Accident Lawyer

You may not have to pay for your bicycle accident injuries. Call the Sullivan and Brill Law Firm today at (212) 566-1000 to talk to a New York personal injury attorney for a free consultation. Our Nassau County lawyers can increase your chances of compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, and medical costs. We serve clients in New York City, Long Island, Kings, Bronx, Queens, Richmond, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, and Rockland Counties, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.