Omaha Injury Attorney Offers 5 Tips to Help Motorists Avoid Accidents with Cyclists
When most people imagine car accident injuries, the thought of a serious collision comes to mind. The truth, however, is that there are other road users besides motor-vehicles. Cyclists, for example, are at a particular risk for injuries in an accident with a car or truck.
Most crashes between cars and bikes end with injuries or fatalities. Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that bicyclists face a higher risk of crash-related deaths and injuries than drivers of cars. In 2013 alone, there were more than 494,000 emergency-room visits from cyclists due to crashes.
If you were in a cycling accident in Nebraska, then an Omaha personal-injury attorney may be able to help. At Rensch & Rensch Law, we can evaluate your crash and guide you through the claims process. We may be able to help you recover lost wages and medical expenses from the negligent driver. To schedule a consultation, call us today at 1-800-471-4100.
If you are a driver, then read on to learn five tips for avoiding crashes with cyclists:
- Check Blind Spots
BicycleSafe.com reminds readers that it is often difficult for motorists to see cyclists on the road. This is particularly true at dusk, dawn and at night.
As a driver, you have a duty to check your blind spots carefully at all times. Always anticipate that there may be a cyclist in your blind spot, and learn to recognize the size and shape of a bicycle. If you are simply looking for vehicles, then you may not notice the cyclist.
- Exercise Caution While Overtaking
If you have to overtake a cyclist, then it is important to exercise caution. Give the cyclist a lot of space. Allow for at least 1.5 meters between you and the bicycle, and only overtake when you can do so safely. This may mean being patient while waiting for traffic to clear or the road to widen.
- Do Not Underestimate the Speed of a Bicycle
In some cases, a bike can go faster than a car – particularly in traffic. If you are unsure about the speed of an approaching bicycle, then wait for it to pass. Do not pull in front of a cyclist unless you are sure you can do so safely.
- Check Mirrors When Opening Doors
Check your side and rearview mirrors carefully before opening your car door. Make sure you are not opening your door directly into the path of a cyclist.
- Be Cautious around Children on Bicycles
Pay extra attention to children who are on bicycles. They are often unstable and unpredictable. Slow down and give them extra space, and anticipate that they may veer into your path at the last minute.
If you were in a car or bicycle crash in Nebraska, then Rensch & Rensch Law can guide you through the claims process. An Omaha injury attorney will investigate the accident and determine if you may have valid grounds for a lawsuit. Call us today at 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation.
