The Dangers of Sideswipe Bicycle Accidents
Even when bicyclists take every measure to stay safe while riding, bicycle accidents can strike at any time, often leading to serious injuries and sometimes fatalities.
One common type of bicycle accident is a sideswipe accident. Sideswipe accidents, even at low speeds, can have devastating effects on bicyclists.
The attorneys of Reed & Terry, L.L.P. are experienced in representing victims of sideswipe bicycle accidents in the Sugar Land, TX area and will fight to get the compensation you deserve.
The Dangers of Sideswipe Bicycle Accidents
A sideswipe bicycle accident is when the side of a vehicle going the same direction as a bicyclist, collides with the side of the bicycle. While two cars sideswiping one another may cause only minor damage to one or both vehicles, sideswiping a bicycle can lead to serious injuries or even the death of the person riding the bicycle.
The primary reason that sideswiping a bicycle is so dangerous is the fact that the size and weight of motor vehicle is far greater than a bicycle. Even a light graze can cause the cyclist to lose control and become injured.
Of course, another factor making sideswipe accidents dangerous is the fact that bicyclists, even those who wear helmets and other protection, are greatly exposed when riding. Without the protection of the metal frame of a car, bicycle riders are at greater risk of injury in the event of an accident.
Common Causes of Sideswipe Bicycle Accidents
A sideswipe accident can happen to any cyclist any time he or she rides a bike on the road with other vehicles. Despite riding in designated bike lanes, sideswipe accidents can still happen.
Some common causes include:
- Distracted driving: Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of accidents on the road, including sideswipe accidents. Distracted driving occurs any time a driver takes his or her full attention off of the road, even for a second. Texting while driving, talking to passengers, changing the radio station, or reaching for something on the passenger seat are just a few examples of distracted driving.
- Wide vehicles: Wide vehicles, like cargo trucks, motor homes, vans, or dual-wheel trucks, may easily sideswipe a bicyclist. Because many of these vehicles take up an entire lane, just a slight move to the right, toward the bicycle lane, can cause a wide vehicle to sideswipe a bicyclist.
- Turns when towing trailers: Trailers don't move exactly like the vehicle towing it. Sometimes, this can lead to a towed trailer swinging into a bike lane when the driver makes a turn.
- Driving recklessly: Unfortunately, some drivers are irresponsible on the road and may speed, drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or drive in other reckless ways that could cause them to swerve and sideswipe a bicyclist.
Common Injuries in Sideswipe Bicycle Accidents
Sideswipe bicycle accidents can cause minor to severe injuries. For some, injuries can cause lifelong disabilities and post-traumatic stress disorder.
While injuries vary greatly in sideswipe accidents, some possible injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Contusions
- Lacerations
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Head injuries
- Back injuries
- Broken or knocked out teeth
- Limb amputations
- Paralysis
Contact the Attorneys of Reed & Terry, L.L.P.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. To find out, please call (281) 201-0988 to schedule your personal consultation.