Although it’s a healthy way to get around, riding a bike on roads in the U.S. can be dangerous. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tracks bike accidents; in 2010 there were 618 fatalities in bicycle-motor vehicle crashes in the U.S., a little below 2% of all people killed in fatal crashes.
Bike injuries run much higher. 2010 saw 52,000 injuries reported, which is much lower than the actual number—a lot of bike injuries go unreported. 52,000 is estimated at 10% of the actual injuries resulting from bike-vehicle crashes. Bike-car collisions cost a lot; fatal crashes and injuries account for more than four million dollars annually, according to the National Safety Council. And bicycle trips only make up 1% of all the trips in traffic in the United States.
The NHSTA has been studying the statistics of bike crashes in hopes of bringing down the high rates of death and injury. Its last major study was in 2009, and it found that the average age of bicyclists killed in crashes with motor vehicles was 41, which was up from 32 in 1998, and 24 in 1988. Overall, 87% of bikers who died on the road in 2009 were male, and 64% of those killed were between 25 and 64. In a period of about ten years, the crash demographics shifted from young to middle aged men, and the location of crashes moved to more urban areas. Many bikers who ride in traffic are adults, often delivery men and women—not so many teenagers or children are riding in cities.
To stay safe on your bike, obey the traffic laws and dress to be seen—wear bright clothing and use bike lights at night. Wearing a helmet often means the difference between surviving a crash or not. When riding on city streets, keep four feet between you and parked cars, to avoid getting “doored” by an oblivious motorist.
If you have been injured in a bicylce accident, contact Mike Agruss Law, for a free consultation at 312-224-4695. Mike Agruss Law, handles personal injury cases throughout Illinois. Mike Agruss Law, will handle your personal injury case quickly, will advise you every step of the way, and will not hesitate to go to trial for you. This litigation strategy will provide you with the best possible compensation. Lastly, Mike Agruss Law, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple.
Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire our Chicago personal injury law firm–just the opportunity to seek justice. Call us today at 312-224-4695.
