New York bicyclists may recognize that they are vulnerable when traffic is heavy as they move from place to place. However, biking is one of the most affordable options for getting around. Still, it is important for these vulnerable individuals to be aware of the dangers they face because of their activities. Statistics collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicate that an estimated average of two bicyclists per day perish in the United States, which represents approximately 2 percent of deaths in all traffic accidents.
The average age of bicyclists killed in accidents during 2013 was 44. At least 22 percent of bicycle fatalities occur in the early evening hours, and a BAC of .08 or higher is an issue in approximately one-fifth of these incidents. Nearly 30 percent of bicyclist injuries occur because the individual has been hit by a car. Only 13 percent are attributed to bicyclist error. Additional causes of bicyclist injuries include falling, crashing, dealing with a dog that has gotten in the way, and dealing with a road or walkway that is in disrepair.
More than two-thirds of fatal bicycle accidents take place in urban locations, and 83 percent of bicyclists killed in accidents are males. Two states had more than 100 bicycle fatalities during 2013, and five states reported no bicycle fatalities during that time. While statistics can provide a view of trends, each bicyclist must exercise caution to keep their own chances of a serious accident to a minimum.
A bicyclist who is injured in an accident caused by a motorist may receive some financial assistance through that driver’s insurance coverage. However, legal assistance could be important if there is a lack of cooperation from the insurance carrier or if the available benefits fall short of the injured party’s medical and personal expenses related to the accident.