Spring and summer are the ideals seasons for cyclists. After a cold winter season, many two-wheeled enthusiasts anxiously await the open roads, streets and bike paths that Canada is well known for.
It is very important however, that safety be in the forefront of everyone's minds in an effort to minimize potential accidents.
Bicycle accidents are one of the biggest contributors to brain injuries in Canada. While enjoyable, cyclists and motorcyclists are at a higher risk of being hurt if involved in any kind of accident.
The risk of personal injury is great because your safety is not entirely in your hands; other drivers, especially motorists directly impact your safety as well.
Below are a few statistics of bicycle accidents in Canada and Ontario.
- In 2009, there were over twenty-six thousand Ontarians who were admitted into emergency rooms for injuries they encountered while cycling. (And these were just those that were reported or needed medical attention).
- According to data examined from the Office of the Chief Coroner on cycling deaths in Ontario, between the years of 2006 - 2010 there were one hundred and twenty-nine accidental cycling deaths.
- Of these deaths mentioned over the four year period, eighty-six percent were male.
- Based on this information collected, the majority of accidental cycling deaths could be prevented.
While enjoying your ride or exercise, it is important that you are vigilant and take the necessary precautions to avoid getting hurt. Utilizing the proper gear and following the law goes a long way in protecting you from certain injuries, but it does not guarantee that you will not be hit by someone else who is negligent.
The focal point in saving your life is avoiding an accident.
Below are a few ways to avoid bicycle accidents:
| Scenario | Solution |
| A car pulls out of an opening on your right. (You can either be hit from the side or you may hit the vehicle from the side). | If at night, it is advisable that you have your headlights on but having them on during the day services as a good cautionary measure as well. It can warn motorists of your approach with its reflective quality. |
| A driver opens his door just as you approach. | Ensure that you slow down when driving alongside parked vehicles. The motorist may not be paying attention or might simply be negligent. When riding, ride as far left as legally possible when passing parked cars. You may get a few angry horns blown at you but the motorist behind you will plainly see you versus someone attempting to get out of their parked car. |
| Riding against traffic | This is not a safe practice at all. Motorists making a right turn will generally look for traffic on their left, not expecting anyone to be coming up from the opposite direction. Always ride with traffic. |
| Waiting at a red light | Waiting at a red light can be dangerous especially if you are in the motorist's blind spot. It is advisable that you stop behind a car versus alongside it. |
At Gluckstein Lawyers, we offer services to individuals who have been hurt in cycling accidents. There are many injuries and fatalities associated with cyclists, both young and old.
It is important that you are able to count on your personal injury lawyer to handle your case from beginning to end. Our bicycle accident lawyers at Gluckstein Lawyers allow you to focus on your recovery while we handle the insurance adjustors and their lawyers.
Call us now for a free initial consultation and get started on the road to recovery and compensation.
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