Many cyclists experience minor accidents with a few superficial injuries, but major bicycle accidents can have severe injuries or fatalities. There’s not much to protect a cyclist from the impact of a moving vehicle, which is much worse at high speeds, and a bike helmet or pads only go so far in lessening the severity of injuries.
Common Bicycle Injuries
Here are some of the most common bicycle injuries:
- Head and brain injuries: Though a helmet provides some protection, bicycle accidents can often cause skull fractures, head lacerations or traumatic brain injuries. Some of these injuries can take time to show up, so it’s vital that anyone involved in a bicycle accident seeks medical attention immediately.
- Neck injuries: Like head injuries, bicycle accidents can cause severe neck injuries, such as whiplash, that take time to show up.
- Back injuries: A cyclist’s back is unprotected in an accident, and falling or hitting a vehicle or obstruction can cause severe back injuries.
- Broken bones: Like the back, the legs, arms and hands of a cyclist are unprotected while riding, which can lead to broken bones and joint injuries in the event of an accident. Pads only protect against superficial injuries for falls, but don’t do much to protect from bone injuries or injuries to the structure of the joint.
- Internal damage: Blunt force trauma is caused by collisions and damages one or more internal organs. A cyclist colliding with a vehicle or being thrown into an object can suffer internal damage and bleeding, so immediate medical attention is necessary.
How to Avoid Bicycle Accidents and Injuries
Bicycle accidents can never be avoided completely, but there are a few ways to lower the risk and lessen the severity of the injuries.
- Always wear a helmet.
- Stay aware of your environment.
- Use your rear-view mirrors and know what’s behind you.
- Learn your hand signals and use them, always.
- Obey the same rules of the road as drivers.
- Wear bright-colored clothing and reflective gear.
- Share the road.
- Use your lights at night and in situations with low visibility.
- Ride in the same direction as traffic.
- Ride as close to the right side of the road when riding slower than the flow of traffic.
Wearing your protective gear and obeying these basic safety rules will help you stay safe and lower your risk of bicycle accidents.
Call Gruber Law Group
It only takes a split second for a bicycle accident to occur, but the injuries can be devastating. Even if you don’t appear have injuries, it’s vital to seek immediate medical attention and have documentation for any injuries that may appear later.
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, it’s important to contact an experienced accident attorney as soon as possible. At Gruber Law Group, we help bicycle accident victims recover and get the financial compensation they deserve. Call or visit the Gruber Law Group today for your free consultation!