Common Bike Accidents and How to Avoid Them

March 29, 2022

Biking is a great way to get around, save money, and stay healthy, but it can be dangerous if you’re not careful. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are more than 800 deaths and 300,000 injuries due to bike accidents every year in the United States. Let’s go over some of the most common types of bike accidents and how to avoid them.

Falling Off the Bike

One of the most common types of bike accidents is simply falling off the bike. This can happen if you hit a pothole or a rock, lose your balance, or if your bike hits something and causes you to fall. In most cases, falling off your bike will only result in minor injuries like scrapes and bruises. However, sometimes people can suffer more serious injuries like broken bones or concussions.

To avoid falling off your bike, it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for obstacles on the road. Additionally, make sure to inspect your bike before each ride to ensure that everything is in good working order. According to this article, it is also recommended that cyclists wear helmets that are tested and certified. By doing everything you can to avoid falling off your bike, you can help keep yourself safe on the road.

Getting Hit by a Door

Another common type of bike accident is getting hit by a door. This usually happens when a driver of the car opens their door without looking, causing you to crash into it. While this might seem like a minor accident, it can actually be quite dangerous. In some cases, cyclists have been thrown from their bikes and into oncoming traffic as a result of getting hit by a door.

In this case, it is also important to always be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the cars around you and make sure to give them plenty of space. Additionally, it is important to wear reflective clothing so that drivers can also see you coming.

Getting Hit by a Car

One of the most dangerous types of bike accidents is getting hit by a car. This can happen if a driver isn’t paying attention, is driving under the influence, or simply doesn’t see you. Unfortunately, getting hit by a car can often result in serious injuries or even death. For example, one common type of injury is a traumatic brain injury, which can have long-lasting effects.

In order to avoid getting hit by a car, it’s important to make sure that you are always visible to drivers. You can do this by wearing bright clothing during the day and reflective gear at night. Additionally, it’s important to use hand signals when you’re turning so that drivers know what you’re doing. By following these safety tips, you can help reduce the risk of getting hit by a car.

Running Into a Curb

Another common type of bike accident is running into a curb. This can happen if you’re riding a bike on the sidewalk, and suddenly lose balance, swerve to avoid something, or simply don’t see the curb. Sidewalk riding is particularly hazardous for children. Riding a bike on the sidewalk can be just as dangerous as riding on the street since you can easily collide with curbs or pillars near the sidewalk. In addition, cars pulling out of driveways or getting into parking spaces can also pose a risk to cyclists on the sidewalk.

To avoid running into a curb, it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings and watch for obstacles. Additionally, it is recommended that cyclists ride in the street rather than on the sidewalk.

Running Into Someone

Besides running into inanimate objects, cyclists also sometimes run into people. This can happen if you’re riding in a crowded area and someone steps into your path. Additionally, it can also happen if you’re riding on the sidewalk and someone opens a door into your path.

Since you can’t always avoid people, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of running into someone. In most cases, you will only suffer minor injuries like bruises or scrapes. However, in some cases more serious injuries can occur. Therefore, it’s important to always wear protective gear like a helmet to help reduce the severity of injuries.

Following Too Closely

Another common type of bike accident is following too closely. This can happen if you’re riding behind another cyclist and they suddenly brake or swerve. Additionally, it can also happen if you’re following a car too closely and they make a sudden stop.

In order to avoid following too closely, it’s important to always give the person or object in front of you plenty of space. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for sudden stops.

By following these safety tips, you can help reduce the risk of being involved in a bike accident. By wearing a helmet, staying visible, and being aware of your surroundings, you can help keep yourself safe while cycling.

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