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Marysville Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Marysville boasts many scenic bike trails, offering over 280 miles of cycling adventures in northern California. From the renowned American River Bike Trail to the captivating Humbug-Willow Creek Trail and Sutter Bike Trail, outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in their passion for cycling amidst picturesque landscapes.
As biking gains popularity among Marysville residents for commuting, exercise, and recreation, prioritizing bike safety has become paramount. No one wishes to endure the harrowing experience of a bicycle accident, where injuries or fatalities can occur unexpectedly. While it's natural to feel invincible, certain circumstances are beyond our control.
If you or a loved one has suffered severe injuries in a bicycle accident in or near Marysville, seek the expertise of our seasoned Marysville bicycle accident lawyers. Call (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400 for free and compassionate advice from our dedicated team. We're here to guide you through this challenging time.
National Statistics for Bicycle Accidents
Drive DefensivelyBicycle accidents and deaths are not uncommon in the United States. The roadways in America are dangerous for bicyclists. A recent report shows more traffic accidents and deaths occur in the United States than in any other country. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 846 bicycle deaths in the nation in 2019.
Bicycle Accident Statistics in California
Riding a bike in California has proven more dangerous than in most states. A recent report by Streetlight shows that California ranks 10th as the most dangerous state for bicyclists and 6th for the state with the highest bicyclist fatalities per capita. The NHTSA reports that 455 California bicyclists were killed from 2016 through 2018.
California Law for BicyclistsIn California, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles on the roadways. Cyclists must follow the same traffic law as motor and commercial vehicle drivers. This means cyclists must obey all traffic signals, speed limits, and stop signs.
Under California law, it is illegal to operate a vehicle under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both. Bicyclists can be charged with a DUI or DWI if intoxicated while riding.
Bicycle Death Statistics According to Gender and AgeAs with other deadly traffic accidents in California, men are more likely to die in bicycle crashes than women. Between 2016 and 2018, about eight men were killed in bicycle accidents for every woman killed. The reason is that men are about twice as likely to bike to work than women. Bicyclists under 20 were more likely to get killed on minor roads than bicyclists over 20.
Bicycle Death Statistics According to Time of DayThe time of day makes a massive difference in bicyclists' danger. The most dangerous time for bicyclists is during rush hour. Dusk and dawn can also be hazardous for cyclists.
According to findings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS):
- 78.6% of accidents occurred during the day.
- 15.1% of accidents happened in the evening with street lights.
- 3.8% of accidents occurred at dusk or dawn.
- 1.7% of accidents took place at night with no streetlights.
Stay focused and alert on the road. Anticipate what motorists may do even before they do it. This is called defensive driving. The sooner you see a possible conflict, the sooner you can do something to prevent a potential accident. You can also avoid a possible crash when you:
- Obey traffic signals, street signs, and road markings.
- Assume the motorist doesn't see you.
- Look ahead for hazards such as potholes, train tracks, or grates that may cause you to fall.
- Don't listen to music or use anything that can take your eyes and ears off the road.
You should ride where you are expected to be seen. When you ride predictably, motorists will understand what you plan to do. This plan of action can prevent an accident.
You should avoid riding on the sidewalk. Some sidewalks end unexpectedly, which forces the cyclist into the road. Motorists don't expect to look for a bicyclist on a sidewalk and won't see you when turning or backing out of a driveway.
If you can't avoid riding on the sidewalk, keep in mind to:
- Look out for pedestrians.
- Pass pedestrians with caution and announce, "On your left."
- Ride in the same traffic direction as motor vehicles.
- Slow down and look for traffic when crossing a street.
- Be prepared to stop and follow the pedestrian signals.
- Look for vehicles turning or backing out of the driveways.
The next time you go for a bike ride, make your safety a priority. Be sure to have all the proper gear, wear a helmet, and know the rules of the road. You can never go wrong with being too prepared.
Watch the animated YouTube video below to learn more about the rules of the road for cycling.
Bicycle Accident Attorneys in Marysville, CAIf you or a loved one was severely injured in an accident in or near Marysville, call our experienced Marysville bicycle accident lawyers at (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400 for our free and friendly case advice.
See a list of our past cases on our verdicts and settlements page.
Editor's Note: updated [cha 6.9.23] Photo by Adrianna Calvo from Pexels cha bw [cs 870]
