Common Injuries from Bicycle Accidents in Allentown

Unfortunately, bicycle accidents are a serious public health concern. They often involve collisions with cars or hazardous road conditions, and severe and life-altering injuries and fatalities continue to rise.

If you were in an avoidable crash caused by a negligent motorist, you have legal rights and may pursue a payout from the liable party. Contact our office to speak with a skilled lawyer, learn about common injuries from bicycle accidents in Allentown, and review your case and options.

What Are the Most Typical Injuries in a Bike Crash?

Cyclists sustain a wide range of injuries when involved in crashes with motor vehicles, and the severity depends on specifics, such as how fast both they and the car are traveling when they collide. Examples of the typical injuries from bike accidents in Allentown include the following:

• Head, skull, and brain injuries are among the most severe and common, often leading to long-term disabilities, or in the worst cases, death
• Fractures, such as ribs, collarbone, arms, wrists, hands, and legs
• Soft tissue injuries, such as contusions, painful whiplash, sprains, and strains
• Lacerations, bruises, and abrasions, such as road rash
• Back problems, such as herniated discs and spinal injuries, can lead to paralysis and permanent disabilities
• Facial injuries, such as fractured jaws or noses, and dental damage from impact with the car, the ground, or another object
• Internal bleeding and organ damage, such as the lungs, spleen, or liver
• Traumatic amputations and loss of a limb or other body part if caught in the vehicle during the collision

While there is no way to control motorists, cyclists should keep some prevention tips in mind to limit accidents on their end and reduce the extent of bodily harm. Wearing a properly fitted helmet drastically reduces the risk of a severe, potentially life-altering head or brain injury, and using other protective gear, such as gloves, elbow pads, eye protection, and padded shorts, can help protect against impacts. Bicycle operators should also use bike lanes and other infrastructure and follow road rules while riding.

Know the Traffic Laws

Bicycle operators must obey all traffic signals, signs, and speed limits, barring some specific exceptions. Further, according to the Pennsylvania Traffic Injury Prevention Project, every cyclist riding on public roads and highways has the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists.

The state allows them to travel on sidewalks and paths when necessary. However, when they are also used by pedestrians, the cyclists must yield the right-of-way to anyone on foot, and use visible and distinguishable signals before passing or overtaking them.

Vehicle Operators

Motorists must remain alert and ready to stop or act if necessary when bicycles are present, allow a minimum of 4 feet of clearance, and reduce speed when passing. Making sure there is adequate space is the driver’s responsibility, and not the cyclists’ to move over and allow them to pass.

They may cross the double yellow line if necessary to pass bikes if they can complete the maneuver safely while maintaining the minimum four-foot clearance. During the appointment, our lawyer could answer questions about the process and typical injuries from Allentown bicycle accidents.

Call Today to Speak to a Seasoned Attorney About the Common Injuries From Allentown Bicycle Accidents

Cycling is a much-enjoyed hobby and way to stay in shape, and many residents are out on the roads and bike paths whenever the weather allows. While it offers many benefits, it is important to remember the risks and that you are vulnerable when traveling near vehicles.

If you suffered bodily harm in a collision caused by someone else’s negligence, you have initiated legal action and pursued compensation from the responsible party. Call soon to speak to a knowledgeable lawyer and learn more about the common injuries from bicycle accidents in Allentown.