Florida’s 5 Most Common Types Of Bicycle Accidents
Florida’s highway safety report reveals that a bicycle accident that usually involves another automobile often results in a serious injury. For bike enthusiasts who are passionate about their sport, it is vital to know how to avoid collisions and injuries. Below is an informative explanation of the five most common types of bicycle accidents which occur in the state of Florida. Hopefully, bicyclists and motorists alike will become better educated so they can lessen their odds of being the next bicycle-motorist accident statistic.
#1 Bicycle Accident: Intersection Slam
The most common type of bicycle accident in the state of Florida occurs at traffic intersections. A bicyclist on a crossing path collides with the motorist on the right who is facing the stop sign. In this case, the bicyclist can be hit when he or she crosses the front of the car. Also, if the car unexpectedly pulls out in front of the bicyclist, then the bike would smash into the vehicle.
#2 Bicycle Accident: Driver Door Smack
The second type of bicycle accident involves a moving bicycle and a parked car. If the bicyclist is riding at a steady pace and the driver suddenly opens the door, then the individual on the bike is likely to smack into the car door. Frequently, bicyclists are simply unable to stop in time to prevent an accident.
#3 Bicycle Accident: Crosswalk Crash
The third most common type of bicycle accident occurs within a crosswalk. Bicyclists should not be riding on the sidewalk or using crosswalks in order to prevent these types of collisions. If a bicyclist is riding on the sidewalk, and uses the crosswalk, then a car is more likely to crash into a bicyclist while making a right turn.
#4 Bicycle Accident: Going Against the Flow
The fourth type of bicycle accident occurs when bicyclists chose to ride against the flow of traffic. A huge misconception lies among these riders, believing that they will be more visible if they ride against traffic on the left side of the street. But when a car makes a right turn, the bicyclist is a sitting duck for a catastrophic collision.
#5 Bicycle Accident: Red Light-Green Light
Bicyclists can avoid the fifth most common type of accident by never stopping beside a car at a signal light. It is much safer for bicyclists to come to a full stop behind a car instead of stopping to the right side of the vehicle. For example, when there is a red light a bicyclist will often stop to the right of the car. When the light turns green and the car decides to turn right, the bicyclist is a prime target for a tragic collision.
If you have been in a bicycle accident in South Florida, it is important to talk with an experienced South Florida bicycle accident attorney. Contact the Law Offices of David Benenfeld to find out what your legal rights are and how to receive help. Call: 954-677-0155 to meet with a skilled Broward County accident attorney.
