Fatal Bicycling Accidents
7 Tips for Safe Driving Around Cyclists

Did you know that 697 bicyclists were killed in crashes with motor vehicles in 2020 in the US?

Across the country, local leaders are trying to get legislation to make roads safer for cyclists. The University of North Carolina found that nearly 300 infrastructure projects were initiated around the world in 2020 to create safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists. Initiatives included closing roads to vehicle traffic and converting some vehicle lanes exclusively for walking and bike use.

The Smoky Mountains and the surrounding Western North Carolina area are too often the site of wrecks and debilitating injuries for cyclists.  Even simple, bike and pedestrian accidents are often catastrophic. While many such accidents are not fatal, they still can be life-threatening and debilitating, and require extended medical care.

And when an accident involves a car or truck versus someone on a bike, the results can be fatal – or result in traumatic and lifelong injuries. When such harm happens because of someone else’s negligence, the injured might need experienced, long-term care.

So if you or a loved one has been injured in a cycling accident, we invite you to call Fisher Stark, P.A., at 828-505-4300 for a free consultation. We are here to help you and your loved ones through these difficult times and ensure that you get the justice that you deserve.

7 Tips for Safer Driving Around Cyclists

Even with legislators trying to make roads a safer place for cyclist, it may not be enough to stop reckless drivers from causing catastrophic crashes with cyclists. All drivers must take steps to minimize the risk of hitting a cyclist:

• Always have a plan for how to navigate the road around a cyclist. Make sure that you understand the common biking hand signals that bikers use to let you know when they are stopping or turning.

• Pay close attention to and obey all traffic signs and signals, while staying aware of the speed of traffic and merging vehicles. Cyclists have the same right to the road as any other vehicle.

• Remember to share the road and give cyclists space when passing them. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association states that drivers should pass bicyclists as though they were overtaking another vehicle.

• Always remain alert for cyclists when you are traveling through intersections or any other areas where pedestrians may be present. Keep alert and check twice for pedestrians and smaller vehicles approaching an intersection, such as motorcycles or bicycles.

• When turning, pull forward slowly until you can see past anything that may be blocking your view. Once you are sure the intersection is clear, continue driving with care.

• One of the most important precautions you can take to avoid hitting a cyclist is to put away your cell phone, or any other device that would cause a distraction, until you have arrived at your destination.

• Even after you park, be considerate of cyclists if you are parked near a sidewalk or road. Check your side-view mirrors BEFORE you open your doors to make sure that no cyclist is coming up behind you. Dooring happens when a driver opens their vehicle door suddenly when a bicyclist is approaching. This causes them to either collide with the door or swerve into another lane and possibly out into traffic.

At Fisher Stark, P.A., we know that most bicycle and pedestrian accidents are caused by cars and other vehicles. There’s limited protection afforded to those who use their feet to get around. So, injuries sustained when struck by a vehicle like a car, bus, or truck can have traumatic, long-lasting effects.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, consult an experienced accident attorney. We invite you to call Fisher Stark, P.A., at 828-505-4300 for a free consultation, to see if we can help you if you have been hurt in a bike accident case.