Bicycling is one of the most enjoyable activities one can partake in. First of all, it’s a thorough workout. When you’re on the bike, you’re getting a complete cardio workout. It’s good for the heart, and even better for the body as a whole! Secondly, cycling is the only truly efficient mode of transport without a carbon footprint. Your only other options are walking and electric cars. One is not a choice for long distances, the other simply exports the carbon. This makes cycling a real wonder!
Unfortunately, your neighbors on the road do not share this view. Most roads, even in a city as well-developed as New Jersey, are not developed with Bicyclists in mind. Unfortunately, this is taken to mean that cyclists are not allowed on roads – a false assumption. This faulty belief leads many drivers to disregard a cyclist. They may not follow the standards required for a safe on-road experience. Or, the road and the environment itself might not be conducive.
The fact remains, if you as a cyclist have sustained an injury due to these factors, you can seek damages. In fact, the experts at www.njpa-law.com have always represented and assisted cyclists with legal areas. This allows punishing the erring parties, and in a way, fostering safer bicycling standards. Here are some of the major areas which can be targeted as part of a personal injury proceeding…
Poor Road Design
Poor road design is a major contributor to bicycle accidents in New Jersey. Many roads lack dedicated bike lanes, forcing cyclists to share the road with motor vehicles. This increases the risk of collisions, especially in areas with heavy traffic. Inadequate signage, poorly maintained surfaces, and narrow lanes further exacerbate the dangers cyclists face.
Inadequate Lighting
Inadequate lighting is another significant hazard for bicyclists, especially during early morning and evening hours when visibility is low. Poorly lit roads make it difficult for drivers to see cyclists, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Streetlights that are broken or insufficiently spaced contribute to this problem, creating dark spots that put cyclists at risk.
Driver Inattention
Driver inattention is a leading cause of bicycle accidents. Distracted driving, failure to yield, and general negligence can have devastating consequences for cyclists. Drivers who are not fully focused on the road may not notice cyclists, leading to collisions that often result in severe injuries. In some cases, drivers may also collide with cyclists with intention to cause harm.
Cell Phone Distractions
The rise of cell phone use while driving has significantly increased the risk of accidents. Texting, browsing, and even hands-free conversations can divert a driver’s attention from the road, endangering cyclists and other road users. Cell phone distractions are particularly dangerous because they combine visual, manual, and cognitive distractions, greatly impairing a driver’s ability to react to sudden hazards.
Blind Spots
Blind spots are a common issue for drivers, particularly those operating large vehicles like trucks and buses. Cyclists can easily fall into these unseen areas, making it difficult for drivers to detect them. Accidents resulting from blind spots often have severe consequences due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved.
No matter how and why the accident occurred, the bottom-line can never be “You should not have been cycling”. Such a regressive approach only helps support the erring parties, allowing further potential harm and unsafe roads. Instead, it’s essential for cyclists to seek damages. By working with an expert attorney, it’s possible to identify and investigate the factors surrounding the accident. This allows for a strong case to be built for fair compensation and damages! So don’t wait, reach out to an expert attorney today!
