Sideswipe accidents are common in areas where bicycles and motor vehicles meet. Cars, trucks, and SUVs weigh thousands of pounds more than a bicycle and even the smallest bump can cause catastrophic injuries to the cyclist. Sideswipe accidents are as dangerous as head-on collisions, and within the blink of an eye, a cyclist can be thrown from their bicycle and into oncoming traffic.
At America’s Consumer Lawyer, we represent clients in Illinois who have suffered personal injuries from a bicycle accident, as well as family members who have lost a loved one in a road accident caused by the negligent or reckless conduct of another person. We know that when a bicycle collides with a vehicle weighing at least 2,000 pounds, the odds are not in the cyclist’s favor and the results can be tragic.
Causes of Sideswipe Accidents
Any time a cyclist shares the roadway with other vehicles, there is a risk for a sideswipe accident to occur. Even when cyclists are using dedicated bike lanes or traveling on the right-hand shoulder as Illinois law states, the buffer zone between the bicycle and other vehicles is so small that there is almost no protection for the cyclist in the event of an accident.
Sideswipe accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, which include:
- Distracted driving – Distracted driving takes a driver’s eyes off the road and can come in many forms, from checking text messages to eating to talking on the phone or changing the radio station. When a driver is not keeping their attention on the road, they can quickly swerve into a cyclist and cause a sideswipe accident.
- Negligent behavior – A driver that is fatigued, driving under the influence, speeding, or has road rage is not making good decisions and can either intentionally or unintentionally sideswipe a cyclist.
- Wider vehicles – Vehicles that are larger, have larger mirrors, dual-wheels, or are pulling trailers or other loads take up more room on the roadways. When they turn or have even a slight movement to the right or into the bike lane they can sideswipe a cyclist.
Sideswipe accidents are dangerous because there is almost nothing a cyclist can do to avoid being hit. If you notice any driver acting strangely or the vehicle is repeatedly swerving into your general direction, it is best to try to slow down and allow them to pass and do not ride beside anyone driving dangerously.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a sideswipe accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
It’s important to consult with an experienced Chicago bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and determine if you have a valid personal injury claim or wrongful death claim against a reckless or negligent driver. If you were injured in a bicycle accident, contact America’s Consumer Lawyer, for a free consultation.
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