Riding a bicycle is an excellent means of transportation. Not only is it healthy for you, it is healthy for the environment. Cycling can also be a fantastic way to deal with the congestion in Houston traffic, making commutes more manageable for cyclists and for others on the road.
However, cyclists in Houston are at risk of serious collisions. Even when cyclists are vigilant and take every possible precaution, reckless driving and other lousy driver habits can put them at risk.
Understanding the common causes of bicycle accidents in Houston can help cyclists avoid these incidents. They can also help cyclists identify when a motor vehicle operator might be liable for damages. Call today to speak with a dedicated cycling wreck attorney.
Distracted Driving
Drivers ignoring their surroundings are the most common cause of bicycle crashes in Houston. Any distraction that prevents a driver from watching the road, keeping their hands on the wheel, or concentrating on driving can lead to accidents.
Texting and driving are the best-known types of distracted driving since they involve all three types of distraction. However, changing stations on the stereo, eating, drinking, smoking, and putting on makeup are other frequent distractions. The other people in the vehicle can also be distractions, especially young children or disruptive passengers.
Cyclists are at particular risk for distracted drivers, since bikes are smaller and more difficult to spot than other vehicles. By the time the driver notices the cyclist, it may be too late to avoid a collision.
Driving While Impaired
Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs is another significant contributor to bicycle wrecks in Houston. This cause can apply to drivers and cyclists. What many people do not realize is that it is illegal to cycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Even though impaired cyclists may cause some of these crashes, motor vehicle operators are the main culprit. Intoxication impairs judgment, increases reaction time, and can keep people from focusing on the road.
If a cyclist is in an accident with a person who appears impaired, they should relay that information to the police who respond to the scene and ask for drug or alcohol testing. Unfortunately, many cyclists have severe injuries and may not be able to communicate that request to first responders. The good news is that most law enforcement officers are trained to spot signs of impairment when they respond to an accident scene.
Reckless Driving
Speeding, failure to yield, tailgating, and erratic lane changes increase the overall risk of causing a crash. Drivers may range from people oblivious to others on the road to angry, hostile, and intentionally dangerous motorists.
While reckless drivers pose a risk to everyone around them, the risk is even greater for cyclists, who lack the protection of a cage. Even cyclists who are wearing protective gear can sustain severe injuries in a wreck.
Talk to a Lawyer About Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Houston
If you have been injured in a bicycle collision, piecing together the events of the crash can be challenging. By understanding the common causes of bicycle accidents in Houston, a personal injury attorney could help you uncover why a wreck occurred and who is liable for your injuries. Schedule a case evaluation to learn more.