Bicycle accidents can lead to several types of injuries, with the most common being fractures and head trauma. If you have been hurt in a crash, you are likely dealing with pain and uncertainty about what comes next.
Fortunately, our dedicated and compassionate bicycle accident attorneys can help with your case. Contact DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers today to get started on building a compelling case for compensation.
What Injuries Do Cyclists Sustain in Accidents?
Compared to motorists and other drivers, cyclists are typically at higher risk of more severe injuries in a crash. This is mainly because of their lack of bodily protection on the road. Several parts of a biker’s body can be exposed to impact in a collision, especially if they are not wearing a helmet.
Head and Brain Injuries
Head and brain injuries are common and extremely dangerous. Any type of trauma to the skull can lead to debilitating and sometimes permanent injuries. Brain bleeding, contusions, concussions, and swelling are just a few possible risks of head injuries.
Broken Bones and Fractures
A cyclist can break multiple bones in a single accident. However, some of the most common breaks and fractures seen in these incidents include the collarbone, wrists, and ankles. One 2021 study documented that the appendicular skeleton is the most vulnerable in bicycle accidents. This would consist of bones in the arms, legs, shoulder girdle, and pelvic girdle.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Any kind of damage to a person’s spine can create long-term complications. The spinal cord plays an essential role in bodily functions, and serious damage can lead to permanent disabilities, including paralysis, neuropathic pain, and cardiovascular dysfunction.
Facial and Dental Injuries
Impact to the face during an accident can cause dental damage, a broken nose, and scarring. Facial trauma is often associated with both physical and mental suffering, as the visible changes it makes to one’s appearance can be as emotionally damaging as they are physically.
Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries
While road rash and soft tissue damage may sound less alarming, these injuries can consist of deep wounds that require extensive medical treatment. Even minor abrasions can lead to skin scarring and discoloration.
Internal Injuries
Bicyclists should always seek medical help after an accident to treat any apparent injuries and to determine if they have internal harm. From internal bleeding to severe concussions, these types of injuries may not be immediately apparent and often require prompt medical attention.
Fatal Injuries
Data from 2023 shows that more than 1,100 bicyclists were killed in crashes involving motor vehicles. This is the highest number of bike deaths ever recorded, having increased by 15% since 1975. In the vast majority of these cases, death resulted from a head-related injury.
Safety Tips To Avoid Bicycle Injuries
To reduce the number and severity of bicycle injuries that occur each year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has compiled a list of precautions all cyclists can take:
- Wear protective gear: Sixty-two percent of bicyclists killed in 2023 were not wearing helmets.
- Yield the right-of-way: Failing to yield the right-of-way was the highest factor in fatal bike crashes.
- Maintain your bike’s integrity: Make sure your bicycle’s components, including brakes, steering, and wheels, are functioning correctly.
- Use reflectors at night: Reflective gear improves safety when visibility is poor. This includes wearing bright clothing and using white front lights and red rear lights.
Each of these safety tips can help prevent an avoidable accident and minimize harm if an impact still occurs.
Find more safety tips in our complete pedestrian and cyclist safety guide.
How DiBella Law Has Helped Victims With Serious Injuries Recover Compensation
case. The amount of compensation a person can receive from a personal injury case is often contingent on damages. Both economic and non-economic damages, such as medical bills, emotional trauma, and lost wages, are heavily influenced by the severity of your injuries. Our legal team can seek out the full amount of compensation you deserve to reflect the losses from your accident.
Injured in a Bicycle Accident? Contact DiBella Law Today
Whether your bicycle accident stemmed from a driver’s actions, a property owner’s negligence, or another form of harm, our team is on the case. At DiBella Law, we put in the time and effort needed to ensure your case is thoroughly investigated and you secure the compensation you deserve.
Our office offers a free 30-day trial and a no-win, no-fee guarantee, allowing you to partner with us without financial risk. Call today at 855-342-3552 (855-DiBella) to schedule your initial, complimentary consultation.