A Philadelphia Bicycle Accident Attorney Explains Top causes of Philadelphia bicycle accidents and how you can avoid them

Bicycling is a fun and enjoyable mode of transportation for recreation, exercise, or commuting. It has become increasingly fashionable to ride a bicycle to work or navigate Philadelphia. Changes to roadway design and traffic have made bicycle travel more attractive. Riding is a great exercise and environmentally friendly—one fewer vehicle means less congestion and cleaner air. Unfortunately, bicycling comes with significant risks, especially when sharing the road with motor vehicles. Cars, trucks, and SUVs pose a threat to even the most defensive riders. The number of bicycle-motor vehicle accidents in Philadelphia shows the danger. To avoid accidents, we must understand their causes and work to prevent them, reducing the chance of significant injuries. Philadelphia bicycle accident attorney Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C., knows cycling poses a continual threat to safety. If you’ve been injured, contact our office today. We offer free consultations to help you learn your legal options.

Avoiding a bicycle accident- what steps do you need to take?

It has been said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In no other area is this statement more appropriate than when we consider bicycle accidents. Healing injuries or replacing a damaged bicycle are appropriate goals to have after suffering a bicycle accident. Better than that is the goal of avoiding an accident in the first place. Given how severe bicycle accident injuries tend to be there is no better time than the present to learn how to avoid an accident while traveling by bicycle. 

Safety precautions and basic knowledge of traffic patterns and the rules of the road can be enough to avoid a serious bicycle accident. What separates a bicyclist from a motorist is quite obvious- a motor vehicle offers its driver and passengers ample protection from many types of accidents. Low-impact collisions occur every day on the streets of Philadelphia without issue. Even moderate impact car accidents can result in limited or no injuries being sustained by any person involved. 

Unfortunately, most cyclists who are injured in an accident suffer significant injuries. Without any protection, other than a helmet, cyclists are at the mercy of other avoidance techniques that can be employed to prevent a significant accident. Even though, as a cyclist, you stand to bear the brunt of the impact in an accident with a vehicle, you can take practical steps to avoid an accident altogether. 

Why is the design of a bicycle so important when it comes to the likelihood of an accident occurring? 

Not only does a bicycle offer you, as a rider, no protection, but it is also extremely lightweight. This makes for a faster and less labor-intensive ride. However, the flip side of a light bicycle is that it does not stand a chance when impacted by a motor vehicle. As an experienced Philadelphia bicycle accident attorney, Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C., understands the frustration and anxiety that comes with a bicycle accident. 

A lightweight bicycle is typically no match for abrupt changes in direction. For example, an abrupt turn left can cause your bicycle to skid out from underneath you. Road burns, a twisted bicycle frame, or even a painful broken bone can result from a bicycle accident. Each time you ride your bicycle and avoid the difficulties described in our blog post, you are performing a tremendous service not only for yourself but for those motorists directly around you. Consider purchasing light-reflective clothing or any other item that can help motorists see you when visibility is limited. 

What are the most common injuries suffered in Philadelphia motorcycle accidents?

Bicycle accidents can result in a range of injuries. When you are hurt in a bicycle accident, it is critical that you understand your options on how to proceed. Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C., offers free-of-charge consultations that help injured people learn how best to seek justice in their specific circumstances. Talk to our team of experienced legal professionals before making a decision about how to move forward. 

Collisions and falls after a bicycle accident commonly result in fractures. Arms, legs, hips, and ribs are minimally protected when riding a bicycle. Wearing protection on your arms and legs can provide some degree of protection, but not much. Otherwise, even being minimally contacted by a motor vehicle while riding your bicycle can result in fractures. Depending upon the extent of your injuries, you may require surgery and rehabilitation. Missed days of work and the possibility that you may not be able to return to work are also considerations that require close attention. 

Neurological issues stemming from traumatic brain injuries and spinal injuries are among the most debilitating and life-changing injuries you can suffer in a bicycle accident. Wearing a helmet is a must for any bicyclist, no matter their level of experience. A seasoned cyclist will tell you that wearing a helmet can be the difference between life and death. Even still, wearing a helmet is not enough to protect against all types of spinal cord or brain injuries. Permanent neurological issues mean issues like paralysis and loss of sensation in your extremities can occur without warning. 

What are the most common causes of bicycle accident injuries?

Unfortunately, distracted drivers contribute significantly to bicycle accident events in Philadelphia. Cyclists like yourself can monitor road conditions and follow all traffic laws while out on a ride. However, when a motorist does not pay attention to road conditions, there is little you can do to prevent a collision. Replying or sending a text message and re-adjusting their GPS are potential reasons why the at-fault motorist did not see you moments before a life-altering collision occurs. 

Next, drunk driving is a major concern for bicyclists who frequently travel on city streets. The judgment of a drunk driver is seriously impaired. Additionally, intoxicated drivers frequently make decisions behind the wheel that are not well thought out. Swerving to avoid obstacles that are not present and switching lanes erratically are hallmarks of drunk drivers. Add to that speeding and failing to control their speed, and drunk drivers will put you, as a cyclist, at risk of harm at every turn. 

Finally, weather conditions contribute to bicycle accidents, as well. For example, as the weather in Philadelphia begins to warm, that can create an entirely new set of weather concerns. Thunderstorms create slick road surfaces and poor visibility. Poor visibility is a major reason why motor vehicle-bicycle accidents occur. On the other hand, poor visibility and slick road surfaces are also possible when the weather is cold, as well. Snowfall creates some of the more treacherous roadway surface conditions. 

How to avoid a bicycle accident?

Certainly, there are some situations that you, as a cyclist, can find yourself in that are unavoidable. Those accidents may be brought about by one of the causes discussed today or a myriad of others. On the other hand, there are steps you can frequently take to prevent or significantly reduce the likelihood of a bicycle accident occurring. 

As we have already mentioned, wearing a helmet is the number one safety measure for a cyclist of any age or skill level to employ on their rides. It does not matter if you are riding around the block or through the entire city of Philadelphia. Wearing a bicycle helmet protects against high-speed and low-speed injuries alike. Consult with your local cycling shop to determine the best helmet for your needs and preferences. 

While you cannot control the drivers around you, that does not mean that you should contribute to the uncertainty on the road. Rather, ensure that drivers around you are aware of your next moves. Use your hands and arms to signal turns. When you do not have the right of way, be sure not to go. When a driver can anticipate your next move, it is less likely that an accident will ensue. A combination of predictability and following the rules of the road greatly reduces your likelihood of being injured in a bicycle accident. 

Questions about bicycle accidents in Philadelphia? Contact a Philadelphia bicycle accident attorney from Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C.

A Philadelphia bicycle accident attorney at Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C. understands the stress, uncertainty, and pain you are in after a bicycle accident.  Contact our office today for a complimentary consultation that can help you establish a solid foundation for regaining your health and achieving peace of mind.