Common Causes of Michigan Bicycle Accident Injuries

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Christensen Law 
David Christensen  
25925 Telegraph Rd #200  
Southfield, MI 48033 
248-900-9000 
inquiry@davidchristensenlaw.com 
https://davidchristensenlaw.com 
https://plus.google.com/101403597068266196711/posts

Common Causes of Bicycle Accident Injuries

Poor Bicycle Helmet Use

There is no law in Michigan that requires bicyclists to wear a helmet, but bicycle riders increase their chances of a head injury or traumatic brain injury by neglecting to wear a helmet. If you are making sure your child is properly equipped with safety equipping before getting on a bicycle, do the same service for yourself and wear a properly fitted helmet every time you ride.

Nighttime Cycling

There are certainly times of day that are more favorable to bike riders. Getting on two wheels during daylight hours will reduce your risk of being involved in an accident with a motor vehicle. If you must get on your bicycle at night, be sure to take all precautions to increase rider visibility by wearing reflective clothing and affixing lights to your bike.

Off-Lane Bicycle Riding

Where you choose to ride affects the probability of getting into an accident. Ideally, you are riding within bike lanes that are clearly marked. If your route takes you onto less-traveled roads or narrower highways that do not have designated bike lanes, it’s essential to be extra-careful about your surroundings and the cars zooming by you – you cannot trust that the motor vehicle operators will all be cautious enough to keep you safe.

Inexperience

Every cyclist has to start somewhere, but the more inexperienced you are as a bicycle ride right alongside motor vehicles, the greater your chances of being involved in an accident. Practice, study, and memorize the rules of the road, especially if you are a newbie bicyclist. Veteran bicycle riders have the benefit of familiarity with the roads they travel and the rules that govern them, as well as the ability to make better quick decisions in a critical situation.

Smartphone Usage

Bicyclists in Michigan are not legally prevented from using a cell phone while they cycle. As a result, some cyclists do use their smartphone while riding their bicycle, and this distraction can lead to preventable accidents with another cyclist, pedestrians, and motor vehicles. Likewise, drivers operating a motor vehicle are equally distracted by their own cell phone usage, which can easily lead to an accident with a bicyclist who goes unseen.

Intoxication

You shouldn’t get behind the wheel of a car when intoxicated, and you shouldn’t hop on your bike and pedal away if you’ve had anything to drink. Your judgment, biking skills, awareness, and reflexes will all be tremendously dulled, which means a collision with an motor vehicle or a solo biking accident are far more likely.

Poorly Maintained Roads

Even if you avoid roads that are lacking bike lanes, that doesn’t ensure safety. Poorly maintained roads and bike lanes make bicycle riding dangerous for Michigan cyclists. Be especially careful in the winter and spring when weather conditions and slow road repairs mean potholes galore abound as well as other cracks and drop-offs in the roads.

About David Christensen
LISTENING. PROTECTING. WINNING
At Christensen Law, we are leaders in helping victims of automobile and truck accidents. We understand the overwhelming challenges that come with these life-changing events, and we want to help. You are not alone – we will become your voice.

Christensen Law 
David Christensen  
25925 Telegraph Rd #200  
Southfield, MI 48033 
248-900-9000 
inquiry@davidchristensenlaw.com 
https://davidchristensenlaw.com 
https://plus.google.com/101403597068266196711/posts