Whether you ride your bike on a daily basis or you occasionally enjoy cycling, it is crucial to understand how widespread accidents involving cyclists actually are. In addition to devastating injuries, these accidents also lead to the loss of many lives.
When a collision with a vehicle occurs, you are very vulnerable as a cyclist. Sadly, the chances of you suffering a serious injury are especially high in this situation. Many bike accidents occur solely because of a driver’s negligent behavior, and it is vital to look into your options in the wake of such a crash.
Data shows how many bicyclist injuries occur per year
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that on an annual basis, more than 100,000 bicyclists suffer injuries in traffic collisions in the U.S. In addition, the CDC says that young cyclists between the ages of 10 and 24 account for almost one out of every three bike accident injuries tended to in emergency departments.
Statistics on fatal bicycle accidents
Aside from debilitating injuries, some of these accidents prove fatal. In fact, the CDC reports that almost 1,000 bicyclists lose their lives on U.S. roads every year and that cyclists between the ages of 55 and 69 are more likely to lose their lives in an accident than cyclists from other age groups. A majority of fatal bike accidents take place on urban roads.
Whether you are a young cyclist or an older bicyclist, you need to look into the risks you face on the road. If a negligent driver causes you to become hurt in a bike accident, firmly stand up for your rights.