Researchers examine injuries and fatalities in SUV vs. bicycle crashes.
A study finds that people on bicycles who are struck by SUVs sustain worse injuries than if they are in accidents with smaller cars.
Cyclists hit by SUVs tend to be knocked down and could face serious injuries or even death by being run over by the vehicle. However, in bicycle accidents with cars, the rider might get thrown onto the vehicle's hood rather than knocked down. In such cases, the cyclists might not get as seriously injured compared to an SUV vs. bicycle crash, according to a recent Forbes report on the study.
The study finds that a bicycle rider faces a higher risk of trauma to the body and is more likely to suffer head injuries in SUV crashes. In addition, fatal bicycle accidents have been on the rise in recent years, according to the article.
Common types of bicycle accidents
As the temperatures rise in Massachusetts this spring, cycling enthusiasts are tuning up their bikes and taking to the roads. While cycling can be fun and an excellent form of exercise, bicyclists face risks when sharing the roads with SUVs, cars, and trucks. It's important for drivers in larger vehicles to watch out for bicyclists, especially SUVs, given the findings of the recent study.
Here are common scenarios that lead to bicycle accidents:
- Intersection accidents: Drivers might fail to stop for a cyclist and strike the bicycle in an intersection. The driver might say they didn't see the person on the bike, but that's no excuse.
- Driver distraction: Drivers might be looking at a phone or engaging in another distraction. This dangerous behavior can result in an accident involving a cyclist sharing the road.
- Speeding or reckless driving: Drivers who fail to stay at or below the speed limit put cyclists sharing the road at risk. By going too fast, the driver has a reduced reaction time and may be unable to avoid a crash with a bicycle. Similarly, drivers who make reckless decisions like failing to obey traffic signs or driving aggressively can increase the risk to cyclists.
- Drunk driving: Drivers who are intoxicated endanger everyone sharing the road. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable to severe injury or death in accidents with SUVs or cars because they have little protection and take the full brunt of impact in a crash.
What to do if you're hit by a car while riding a bicycle
If you're involved in a bicycle accident with another driver, prioritize your safety and seek immediate medical attention. Call 911 and inform the police about the incident to document the details.
Obtain the driver's information, including their full name, address, phone number, and insurance details. Collect contact information from witnesses, take photos of the accident scene, and preserve evidence.
Lastly, consider seeking legal help from an experienced bicycle accident attorney who can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
How a bicycle accident lawyer can help
Bicycle accidents can become complex. The at-fault driver might say you're partially to blame. The insurance company might downplay your injuries and offer a settlement that doesn't begin to cover the full extent of your losses.
Because so much is at stake, you should contact an experienced bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible. Don't talk to the insurance companies. Anything you say could be used against you in your claim.
Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone to arrange a free consultation about your bicycle accident. We put experience and resources to work for clients involved in bicycle accidents. We take an aggressive stand on behalf of injured riders. And we know how to counter the tactics insurance companies use to pay victims less.
When you have our law firm on your side, you can focus on your recovery and have peace of mind that you have a strong advocate on your side looking out for your best interests. Best of all, you won't pay us anything unless we secure compensation on your behalf. Tell them you mean business!