According to police reports, a 79-year-old Sacramento cyclist was hit by a 19-year-old driver who was heading eastbound near West Capitol Ave and Jefferson Blvd in a four-door car. The police have not determined the cause of the accident. One of the passengers stated the cyclist was heading the right way on the road before he was hit. However, police are still investigating. The cyclist was rushed to the hospital.
Cyclist-Involved Accidents: Bike Accident Lawyers
Both cyclists and pedestrians take a risk when traveling on roads. According to statistics from the NHTSA Traffic Safety Facts, 726 cyclists were killed in vehicle crashes in 2012 while another 49,000 were injured. Sadly, this is an increase from the 682 bicyclist fatalities and 48,000 injuries reported in 2011. Since 2001 the number of cyclist death due to vehicle accidents has risen 7.5 percent. The number of bicyclist injuries has increased 8.9 percent from 2001 to 2011. Those who are killed or injured while riding their bike represent just over two percent of the total number of people killed and injured in traffic crashes in 2012.
There are obvious risks when riding a bicycle, especially near or on a road. However, bicycling remains a very healthy and safe activity for millions of people around the country. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has created a detailed breakdown of the age, gender, and location of bicycle crash victims revealing that in 2012 the average age of bicyclists killed in crashes with motor vehicles was 43 years old. It also showed that 88 percent of those killed were male. The data also showed that 69 percent of bicyclist fatalities occurred in urban areas while 30 percent of them occurred 4:00 p.m. and 7:59 p.m.
Sacramento Bicycle Accidents and Personal Injury Lawyers
This data not only helps reveal higher risk times and areas to be riding a bicycle, but also points out that bicycle accidents do occur often and can leave someone with severe injuries. About 29 percent of those who are injured while riding a bike are injured by being hit by a car. When an individual is hit by a vehicle, especially if it was the driver’s fault, the bicyclists may be able to seek compensation for damages. These damages can include compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, and loss of wages due to the inability to work because of the accident. If you have been injured due to the negligence of another driver, you need the help of an experienced personal injury attorney to ensure your rights are protected and you receive your just compensation.
