Reasons People Seek Cycle Accident Compensation

By Steven Harrison


With the cost of gasoline increasing, more and more people are riding bicycles to work and to run errands. With this increase in bicycle traffic, accidents are also becoming more common, and the results of a bicycle being hit by an automobile can be devastating. Anyone who has been injured on their bicycle will wish to seek cycle accident compensation in order to help bear the physical and financial burdens of their injuries.

One of the reasons that there are more of these accidents is the simple fact that people are not accustomed to watching out for bicycles. This is not true in every city, however. There are some urban centers which are accustomed to bicycling. There are some areas which are used to cycling aficionados on the weekend, but not during working hours.

Of course, everyone knows how cellular telephones have increased the number of accidents on our roadways. Law enforcement has begun to crack down on telephone users, as they have been the cause of countless accidents due to the distraction of the cellular phone. Some drivers engage in many distracting activities, and this can create real problems with their driving.

Of course, there is also the issue of individuals choosing to drive under the influence as well. It is not always alcohol you have to worry about, but prescription drugs. Anyone who bicycles near elderly housing, hospitals, and other facilities which cater to those whom are ill should be aware and vigilant while traveling.

Motorists should be aware that driving under the influence of prescription drugs is still driving under the influence, and they can be arrested. Law enforcement cracks down hard on that, but they also are cracking down on phone usage and texting while driving. It is the opinion of law enforcement that cell phone usage is just as big a hazard as DUI.

Many urban centers are putting in bicycle lanes to help assist those on cycles to avoid interacting with traffic. These are helpful in that it provides a space for the bicycle where they do not have to take a part of the automobile lane. Still, these lanes have no barriers around them, so the bicyclist is still exposed to the potential for disaster to strike unexpectedly.

One thing many bicyclers can do to help protect themselves is to put a mirror on their handlebars. This way they are able to watch for anyone coming from behind, and take proper measures to avoid being struck. It can not prevent all accidents of happening, but it at least allows one to see what is coming up behind them.

Making sure the bicycle is fitted with reflectors, and possibly even a headlamp are other measures one can take to help keep them safe. Basic safety equipment like knee and elbow pads, and of course a helmet, can help lessen the seriousness of injuries sustained. No matter the precautions taken, anyone who has been struck will surely be seeking cycle accident compensation, and motorists should be aware that hitting someone on a bicycle can result in them being sued at the very least, and they can even be charged with a vehicular crime.




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