Preventing Las Vegas Bicycle Accidents
Nevada has a hot dry climate well suited to alternative modes of transportation like bicycling. However, the high traffic congestion within Las Vegas can be a very dangerous place for a cyclist. Making sure to follow the proper rules of the road and taking safety precautions can help prevent a Las Vegas car accident and keep a bicyclist safe and uninjured. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2012, there were 726 bicyclists killed in traffic crashes in the United States. This is the equivalent of two bicyclists killed every day. Additionally, 48,000 bicyclists were injured in traffic crashes. These are sobering statistics and highlight the importance of following the proper safety precautions when riding a bicycle. Bicycling is becoming an increasingly popular mode of transportation, especially in states with hot dry climates like Nevada. However, the high traffic congestion within Las Vegas can be a very dangerous place for a cyclist. Drivers often do not pay attention to cyclists and fail to yield the right of way, which can result in a Las Vegas car accident. To avoid a car accident, it is important for cyclists to know and follow the proper rules of the road. In Nevada, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. This means that they must obey all traffic signals and signs, and must use the rightmost lane that is safe for them to ride in. Cyclists should also use hand signals to indicate their intentions to drivers. In addition to following the rules of the road, it is important for cyclists to take safety precautions. They should always wear a helmet and brightly colored clothing to make themselves visible to drivers. Additionally, cyclists should stay aware of their surroundings and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary.
If a cyclist is involved in a car accident, they should take the following steps:
1. Move to a safe location.2. Check for injuries and ask for medical attention if necessary.3. Exchange information with the other driver.4. Notify the police.5. Contact an attorney. Following these steps can help ensure that a cyclist is safe and uninjured after a car accident. There are certain road rules and safety tips that bicyclists must and should follow when travelling on Nevada roads, especially if the roads are in high traffic cities like Las Vegas:
- Ride on the right side of the road and always with the flow of traffic;
- Be alert for cars pulling in and out of driveways;
- Stay off sidewalks;
- Use hand signals when turning or stopping;
- Look over your shoulder;
- Ride in a straight line;
- Wear reflective clothing and outfit a bicycle with a white headlight and red tail reflector if riding at night;
- Wear visible, bright-colored clothing during day-time riding;
- Make sure your tires are properly inflated;
- Have a horn or bell on your bicycle to alert others to your presence while riding;
- Always wear a hard-shell helmet; and
- Maintain a car door’s width away from parked/immobile cars to prevent being “doored.”
What To Do If You Are Involved In A Bicycle Accident
Even if a bicycle rider follows all of these rules and safety guidelines, it cannot prevent all bicycle accidents. Such is the situation with pedestrians, skateboarders, skaters and any other person using an active means of transportation. When Las Vegas drivers are inattentive, distracted, intoxicated, or otherwise reckless or negligent, other people often pay the price, whether they are a bicyclist, pedestrian, or motorist. With the help of an experienced Las Vegas personal injury attorney, a negligent or reckless driver can be held accountable for any accident and/or injuries they caused. You can learn more about bicycle safety from the National Safety Council.
Do You Need A Bicycle Accident Attorney?
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you may need legal representation to get the best outcome possible. Because bicycles offer little protection in the event of an accident, bicyclists often suffer catastrophic injuries. These injuries can include brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and road rash. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you should immediately consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer. Your lawyer will review the facts of your case and determine the best way to proceed. In many cases, it is advisable to file a lawsuit against the person or entity responsible for the accident. If you have suffered a bicycle accident injury in Las Vegas, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. You may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. You need an experienced and qualified attorney to represent you and fight for the compensation you deserve. At the law offices of Shook & Stone, we have been representing victims of bike crashes and wrecks in Vegas for years. We understand the complex legal process that is involved in these bicycle accident claims and we are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome for you. We will work to get you the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We will also work to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. If you have been injured in a bike crash or wreck, please do not hesitate to call us for a free consultation. We will review your case and let you know how we can help. Bicycling is an excellent way to get around the streets of Las Vegas. Cyclists save on fuel, don’t have to pay for parking, and get a little exercise. Many people who move to central Las Vegas rely on public transportation, walking, or bicycling instead of personal vehicles. It’s one of the benefits of living in a big city, but it can also be one of the pitfalls. Bicyclists face serious risks when they hit the roads of Clark County. Aggressive drivers, lack of bicycle lanes, and busy intersections can all add up to tragedies. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our attorneys if you have any questions or concerns. They are there to help you every step of the way. Please call us today at 702-570-0000 for a consultation.