Distracted driving occurs when a driver is doing anything that can take their attention from the road. While we often think of texting as the main offender in distracted driving, there are other activities that can cause a driver to lose focus, including using GPS, eating, and checking social media. Any time a driver takes their eyes and attention from the road, the results can be devastating, especially when it causes an accident that involves a cyclist.
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 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.
Distracted Driving and Bicyclists
According to a recent study conducted by Public Health Reports, the number of cyclists killed due to a distracted driver has increased over 30% in the past five years, which most experts believe is likely underreported.
Even if a cyclist isn’t killed by a distracted driver, the injuries they sustain can be life-altering, life-changing, and economically devastating.
Common Distracted Driving Scenarios
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) identifies texting, using the phone, or using a navigation system as the main causes of distracted driving. The CDC also reports that there are three types of distracted driving, which are:
- Visual distracted driving-Taking one’s eyes off the roadway.
- Manual distracted driving-Taking one’s hands off the wheel.
- Cognitive distracted driving-Taking one’s mind off of driving.
Texting is identified as one of the most dangerous types of distracted driving as it compromises visual, manual, and cognitive abilities and takes a driver’s eyes off the road for 5 seconds, long enough to cover the length of a football field.
Cyclists are far more likely to be injured in an accident with a motor vehicle due to the lack of protection they face while on their bicycle. Common scenarios where a cyclist may be injured due to distracted driving include:
- Dooring
- Side-swipe collisions
- Right and left turn collisions
- Rear-ending
Distracted driving is a choice and this negligent behavior can put others at-risk, especially those that are at a distinct disadvantage like cyclists. If you or a loved one was injured in a cycling accident due to distracted driving, an experienced personal injury lawyer can review your case and help secure you the compensation you deserve.
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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