Numerous accidents involving bikes occur every year in the U.S., but there are still many myths about them. Believing these can cause some people to miss out on the compensation they deserve. Here are a few common bike accident myths:
- Most Bike Accidents are Caused by Bicyclists: Although bicyclists are to blame for some bike accidents, the majority of these accidents are caused by negligent drivers. If drivers are speeding, fatigued, texting, or behaving in another negligent way, they are in danger of hitting bicyclists.
- It is Safer for Bicyclists to Ride on the Sidewalks: Some bicyclists mistakenly believe that it is less hazardous to ride on sidewalks. However, the state of Nevada prohibits this, and since motorists do not expect bicyclists to ride on the sidewalk they might not keep an eye out for them at intersections.
- Bicyclists do Not Follow the Rules of the Road: Another common misconception a bike accident lawyer in Las Vegas, NV, hears is that bicyclists disobey traffic laws all the time. The truth is that the majority of bicyclists adhere to the rules of the road, including stopping at red lights and not riding on sidewalks, to prevent accidents.
- Bicyclists Should Ride Facing Traffic: Bicyclists who ride facing traffic are actually at a greater risk of accidents. Instead, they should ride with the flow of traffic so that they will be more visible to motorists.
- It’s Not Necessary to Wear a Helmet Every Time: Some bicyclists falsely assume that they only need to wear a helmet when they’re riding on a busy street. However, accidents can still happen on residential roads with very little traffic. It is important for bicyclists to wear helmets at all times to reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of an accident.
If you’ve been injured in a bike accident, consult with a Las Vegas bicycle accident lawyer at Eglet Law.
