3 Potential Causes Of St. Petersburg Bicycle Accidents
Michael Babboni
Law
It is no secret that all sorts of people invested in bicycles in 2020. When the pandemic was in full bloom, individuals got the equipment to exercise. Thanks to bikes, society members were able to get into or stay in shape while hitting trails and remaining socially distant from others. Of course, there are other reasons why people ride bikes in St. Petersburg. Some travel in this manner simply because they enjoy it.Meanwhile, many people decide to become bicyclists to save money. After all, they don't have to get auto insurance to ride a bike. Nor do riders have to buy gas as vehicle owners do. It really doesn't matter why or when people invested in bicycles in St. Petersburg. The point is that bikes and their riders aren't going anywhere. Instead, they are here to stay.
There's certainly nothing wrong with people traveling around town by bike. However, often, bicyclists are at the mercy of motorists. Hence, all it would take is for you to be in the wrong place at the wrong time with a negligent driver for your entire world to be turned upside down. Nothing good can come from getting struck by a car, as most of the time, that will injure or kill a person. Let's look at some of the common types of negligence associated with bicycle accidents.
Distracted Driving
Drivers shouldn't do things that take their attention away from their surroundings. Yet, many motorists become distracted daily. Cell phones and texting are usually to blame, but vehicle operators can really lose focus because of just about anything. Examples of other common distractions include:
• Passengers
• Radio
• Food
• Pets
Drunk Driving
The majority of motorists steer clear of alcohol while operating motor vehicles. However, that notion doesn't ring true for everyone. Some St. Petersburg residents probably don't mind drinking a margarita or two with lunch or dinner at a restaurant. Then again, others could feel that a shot or two among friends at a bar after work is acceptable. Drinking and driving don't mix. Yet, people partake in the activities all the time.
Swerving, speeding, and riding the brakes can become problematic when drunk drivers are on the roadways. A bicyclist can get struck by a drunk motorist in the morning, day, or night. It just depends on when the person decides to start drinking and get behind the wheel.
So, if a bike is your primary mode of transportation, continually be on the lookout for signs of drunk drivers. Spotting them before they get nearby could save you a lot of pain. Then again, it might save your life.
Turning In Front Of Bicycles
Bicycles are harder to see than most other vehicles on the streets. Therefore, motorists must really keep their eyes peeled to ensure they don't hit riders. Even though people know they need to be extra careful, sometimes, they forget and turn right out in front of bicyclists. Then, the two-wheelers slam into their vehicles.
Meanwhile, the riders fly into the air and land on top of the cars that hit them, breaking and fracturing bones. It is also possible for individuals to hit their heads on the ground and suffer traumatic brain injuries. If drivers pay closer attention, these types of events may be avoidable.
The Last Words
If a driver's negligence causes a bicycle crash that leaves you with severe injuries, you may have the grounds to seek compensation for your wounds. Would you like to find out if that's the case? Contact The St. Pete Lawyer to schedule a free evaluation today. He'll be happy to hear you out and listen to your side of the story. Then, the attorney will let you know where your claim stands.