Bicycle Sales Boom During the Pandemic, But is the Public Safe?

While the pandemic has affected multiple facets of American life, it has also caused significant growth in certain business sectors, namely particular retailers.

One of the biggest trends in the pandemic economy? Bicycles.

With shelter in place orders, Coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, and nationwide protests, bicycle riders have swarmed the streets in record numbers. Bicycles are good for the environment and for cyclists’ health, but they can also present specific risks.

Are swarms of bicyclists safe on American roads? Not quite. Learn more about bicycle accident statistics and how to be an informed cyclist. 

Bicycle Accident Statistics

The United States reports more fatal and injury-causing traffic accidents than most other countries, according to injury experts. In 2018, there were 857 bicyclists killed in traffic crashes in the United States, and 783 bicyclists killed in 2017. Deaths among bicyclists, specifically age 20 and older, have nearly tripled since 1975. 

Beyond the impact of the loss of a loved one, bicycle accidents have had an impact on medical costs. One 2017 study conducted by researchers at UCSF reported that, over a 17-year period, the medical costs of bicycle injuries to adults in the United States, both fatal and non-fatal, amounted to $237 billion dollars. The amount is nearly double the medical and other costs for all occupational illness over the same time period. 

What Bicyclists Need to Know

The Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, especially when in unprotected bike lanes. Bike riders are more likely to suffer serious injuries than victims of other accidents. 

Collisions with motor vehicles are responsible for 90% of bicycle accident fatalities, with majority occurring in urban areas during rush hour. Other common causes of bicycle accidents include:

• A motorist failing to see a cyclist
• A motorist running a stop sign or stop light
• A motorist cutting off a bicycle
• A motorist making a right turn in front of a cyclist in a bicycle lane
• A motorist opening his or her car door (dooring accident)
• Poorly maintained roads
• Defective bicycles
• Collision with debris

What to Do After a Bicycle Crash

Being informed on how to deal with a bicycle accident can help you and your loved ones feel more prepared when riding. If you are injured in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:

• Stay calm. While it may be difficult if you are in severe pain, staying calm can help you logically deal with the situation at hand.
• Call the police. Contact the police after a collision, even if you do not feel it is necessary. The police will compile a report based off of your statement of the events and the accident scene.
• Collect contact information. If you are able, collect contact information, the full name, license number, and insurance information from the driver. If there are witnesses, also collect their contact information.
• Seek medical care. Some injuries following a bicycle collision are not readily apparent. Visiting a medical professional can help identity injuries and give you a record of your injuries. 
• Preserve evidence. Refrain from repairing your bike or other property that was damaged in the collision. Take photos or videos of the accident and surrounding area and write down your side of the story as soon as possible.

Legal Rights of Bicyclists 

Cyclists have the right to use open roads, but only if done so responsibly. In all fifty states, bicyclists must obey the same laws as drivers.

Bicycle riders are also able to recover compensation if the negligent actions of another contributed to or caused a bicycle accident. In a personal injury case, a bicyclist is entitled to compensation for their medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and possibly future wage loss. To learn more about the legal rights of accident victims, speak with a bicycle accident lawyer. 

Concluding Thoughts

Cycling has always been a popular method of transportation, but with the current climate surrounding the global COVID-19 pandemic, it’s popularity has surged. Added bicycles on the road also means the added responsibility of drivers and cyclists alike to respect the rules of the road, understand the risks associated with driving and cycling, and educate themselves on biking safety. Whether you are a driver or a cyclist, stay safe this summer by staying informed.