Bikers chose to take their bikes as a mode of transportation or exercise for a number of different reasons. Whether for the physical activity or environmental sustainability or a mix of both, biking is a fun and relatively safe mode of transportation but, like any mode of transportation, it has its risks. Unfortunately, when those risks involve a crash between a bike and a vehicle, the risk can be catastrophic for the biker.
How bad are biking accidents?
Biking accidents is a serious problem in our country. As of March 15, 2022, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that almost 1,000 bikers suffer fatal injuries every single year. The agency also reports an additional 130,000 suffer injuries in crashes on our country’s roadways.
This is a big problem not just in the country, but here in South Carolina as well. The state’s Department of Transportation reports bicycle fatalities in South Carolina have more than doubled in recent years.
What is being done to address this issue?
Both federal and state authorities are taking action to help reduce the rate of bicycle fatalities and injuries throughout the country. In South Carolina, the Department of Transportation developed a Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plan that works to combine current efforts with a focus on some of the more dangerous roadways.
What can I do to avoid a crash?
Bicyclists can help reduce the risk of injury by wearing a helmet and bright clothing to increase visibility. Use of lights, white in front and red in the rear, also help reduce the risk of a crash.
Unfortunately, even when bikers take these and other preventative measures accidents happen. In those cases, it may be best to take action to hold the responsible party accountable.
Why should I hold the driver accountable after a crash?
This will serve two main goals. First, if successful, it can lead to funds to help cover the costs of the crash. This can include the expenses that come with medical bills and rehabilitation costs as well as lost earnings due to the inability to work while healing from these injuries.
Second, it can punish the driver while serving to deter others from making the same errors. This can make your community a safer place for pedestrians and bikers.