Californians love to ride bicycles. It’s a good way to get some exercise in the great outdoors, and for some, bicycling is their primary mode of transportation.
But despite these perks, bike riders face many hazards on the roads. Below is some important information regarding the dangers present for those riding bicycles.
They are no match for a vehicle
Even though those riding a bike account for only a single percentage of all trips, bikers make up more than 2% of all motor vehicle fatalities in the United States. Each year in America, almost a thousand bike riders die and more than 130,000 are injured in collisions with motorists.
The high cost of bike wrecks
These deaths and injuries carry a high cost. The losses may be incalculable to the survivors of those who were killed, but more than $23 billion is assessed per year for these losses and injuries. In addition to the lives lost, costs include the health care totals, lost time from work and an estimation of loss of life quality for those who survive their accidents.
Which riders are most at risk?
While older adult riders (ages 55 to 69) have the highest fatality rates, it is those ages 10 to 24 who get emergency room treatment for bike wreck injuries. Also, it is the males with the higher injury and death rates — five to six times higher than females.
What should an injured rider do?
If you are injured in a California bike wreck, understand that you have the option to seek both compensation and justice from the liable parties. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under the law.