It is not often that a bicycle is our main source of transportation, but, for those who live in a city, it can be an inexpensive and eco-friendly way to get around. Americans travel via bicycle about 1% 
of the time, but these infrequent journeys are actually some of the most dangerous. According to the CDC, bicyclists face a greater risk of injury or death in a crash than occupants of motor vehicles do. When you are injured in a bicycle accident, it’s vital to have an experienced lawyer on your side.
Dangers of Bicycles
A bicycle is a fun toy to play with as a child. As you grow older, it may become convenient to bike to work or around town for exercise. The most common age groups that experience minor bicycle injuries are children and young adults. However, young adults and adults over 45 have the highest bicycle death rates. In fact, in 2012, the average age of bicyclists killed in a crash with a motor vehicle was 43 years old. It is important to use safety precautions when riding your bike, no matter what your age.
How to Prevent a Bicycle Accident
- Wear a helmet. It may seem redundant, but it can protect you from serious brain injury.
- Use reflectors or bright clothing and accessories when riding at night.
- Obey all traffic laws when biking on the road.
- Make sure your bike doesn’t need any repairs – check tire pressure, brakes, etc.
- As a rule of thumb, do not allow children under 10 to bicycle on the street.
Staying safe is important, especially when you’re as vulnerable as you are on a bicycle. With such little protection, you are at risk for scrapes and bruises as well as more major injuries. Stay alert, just as you would if driving a car. Some accidents, unfortunately, cannot be easily avoided. Bike injuries can occur because of uneven pavement, collision with pedestrians, or loose animals, but most serious injuries on bikes occur between the bicycle and a motor vehicle. Negligence on the part of the motor vehicle driver can be extremely dangerous, and potentially deadly, for the bike rider.
Take Action
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident in Jersey City due to the negligence of a motor vehicle driver, you need a personal injury lawyer who will fight relentlessly to get you the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, contact The Law Offices of Anthony Carbone.
