Although the rate of bicycle accidents has decreased in the past few years, it is not the case in every state. For example, in Nevada, drivers need to be extra cautious since the bicycle accident rate continues to rise and is higher than the national average. Although bikes are becoming increasingly popular, the state is way behind others regarding safety for bicyclists. In fact, Las Vegas is ranked 48/100 for bicycle safety.
Hundreds of bicycle accidents occur by cars annually in Nevada, resulting in serious personal injuries, and cyclists are the fifth type of user with the most fatalities in the state.
Faced with this situation, it is important that, when driving your car, you become aware and apply the respective road safety measures to reduce the risks of accidents with cyclists.
This article will take a closer look at what Nevada drivers can do to prevent cycling accidents, but first, let’s discuss what the statistics say:
Nevada Bicycle Accidents—Statistics
Nevada statistics show that in large cities like Los Angeles, most bicycle accidents result in fatalities, most of which involve men. A cyclist is more vulnerable and likely to experience injuries in an accident than a car driver in the same situation.
In addition, most fatal accidents occur at night, while 80% of bicycle accidents occur during the day. And most importantly, the statistics also reveal that, in most cases, it is the cyclist’s fault (73%). However, regardless of who’s at fault, the cyclist suffers more injuries.
How Nevada Drivers Can Prevent Cycling Accidents
Here’s what car drivers must do:
- Visualize Your Surroundings Before Turning: If you are making a turn when the light is red, look to the sides and behind to avoid colliding with a cyclist. Both you and the cyclists always have to drive predictably so everyone on the road has a clear idea of what they intend to do and can react on time to any unforeseen event.
- Always Keep Your Distance: If you are traveling in your car very close to a bicycle, any unexpected turn or carelessness behind the wheel can cause an accident. To make coexistence with bicycles more feasible, give them the space they deserve, as you would with any other vehicle, and keep the three-second following distance.
- Never Exceed the Speed Limit: Most fatal accidents happen due to excessive speed. Therefore, do not exceed the speed limit established by law to avoid risks and infractions.
- Slow Down When Approaching a Cyclist: All those who circulate on the roads must understand each other. The best way to avoid a cycling accident is to reduce the vehicle’s speed when you overtake or have one or more cyclists nearby.
- Consider Group Bikes as One Unit: Practically, a group of cyclists traveling together on the road should be considered a single vehicle. So, if the first rider in that peloton takes a junction, you have to be aware, stop and give way to the rest.
- Be Aware of the Surroundings When You Open the Door: Always use the side mirror to ensure before opening your door.
Here’s what cyclists must follow to avoid getting into accidents:
- Always Wear a Helmet: Do not forget to wear a right-sized helmet that is in bright colors and meets the security criteria
- Respect Traffic Signs: Remember that bicycles must also respect traffic lights, traffic directions and other rules and signs.
- Keep the Bike in Good Condition: A bicycle should be in good condition. Check the tires, brakes, chain, handlebars and seat well.
- Avoid Driving Near the Sidewalk: In addition to protecting pedestrians, this will allow you to be more visible to cars. In this way, you will have enough space to move out of the way, if necessary, when a car overtakes you keeping a short safety distance. However, this does not mean you go in the middle of the lane.
- Avoid Cars that are too Close Behind You: If a car follows you too closely, a sudden stop or a small decrease in speed will suffice to cause a serious or fatal accident. When a car does not respect the safety distance, avoid it simply by stopping on the sidewalk and letting it go.
- Look for the Bike Lane: If bike lanes are on your route, use them, even if they involve a small detour. If you are one of the fastest cyclists, remember that this is not a reason for choosing the street instead of the bike lane since you are just as vulnerable or more than the slower cyclists.
- Avoid Cycling at Night: If you have to, always carry your lights and, if possible, a reflective vest.
- Respect Other Drivers: Remember that drivers of other vehicles also have a hard time when they have to pass near a cyclist, don’t make it more difficult and give them the space they need, don’t block their way and always mark direction changes.
What to Do If You’re in a Cycling Accident?
Even the most cautious drivers can get into accidents in Nevada. If, despite taking reasonable precautions, you’re in such a situation, immediately contact a Nevada personal injury lawyer.
The Bourassa Law Group has a team of skilled attorneys experienced in dealing with personal injury cases involving bicycle accidents. A personal injury attorney will take care of everything from the moment you contact them and ensure the victim gets the fairest compensation.
Call us at (800)870-8910 for a free consultation!
1-800-870-8910