Rochester, NY is home to many bicyclists and these riders enjoy biking to work, for fun, and just to get exercise all year round. Unfortunately, since Rochester roads can be crowded with additional vehicles and other obstructions, there are plenty of dangers for bicyclists in the area. Here are some of the more common causes of bicycle accidents in Rochester. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, our attorneys may be able to help. Call 585.546.2500
Ever-changing Rochester weather
If you live in Rochester, you know of the severe weather changes that can happen almost by the minute. Your morning commute downtown can be a beautiful ride and your 12pm bike trip for your lunch break can be a frigid excursion through snowcapped Rochester roads. Snowy, rainy, windy, and other poor weather conditions make for an extremely dangerous bike ride. This can lead to bicycle accidents of all kinds. If you do plan on biking, it’s important to make yourself aware of the weather forecast for the day to plan ahead.
Bicycle Accidents with Cars
A collision with a car is one of the most common types of bicycle accidents. Even in perfect weather conditions, bicycle accidents can still occur due to the number of vehicles on the road. While drivers should always be aware and do whatever they can to avoid collisions with bicyclists, that’s not always the case. Distracted drivers – those who are using cell phones, talking with passengers, etc. – are a common cause of bicycle accidents.
Another frequent cause of bicycle accidents is when a rider is cycling against oncoming traffic and a vehicle makes a right turn directly in front of the cyclist. Cyclists should always ride with traffic and use hand signals for turning, etc. when necessary.
Illegal Maneuvers (by Vehicle Driver or Bicyclist)
Illegal maneuvers performed by both vehicle drivers and bicyclists can result in bike accidents as well. Whether they’re performed on purpose or by accident, these types of accidents can be very detrimental to bicyclists, drivers, and pedestrians alike. Speeding, not using a turn signal, driving without headlights, running a stop sign, etc. are all maneuvers that can cause a very serious bike accident. And, bicyclists should follow the rules of the road - ride with the flow of traffic, obey traffic signs, and be alert of surroundings.
Roadway Conditions
Another situation that can have an unfortunate impact on a bicyclist is roadway conditions. Some common poor roadway conditions can include a lack of proper signage, potholes, uneven pavement, water pooling, and excessive gravel and debris on the road. In Rochester, potholes can be a common occurrence, especially after a winter with a lot of snow. Whether it’s from construction impediments, broken-down roads, or other highway defects; bicyclists need to be aware and understand safe cycling through and around these hazards.
Pedestrian Negligence
It’s not just vehicles that can be a problem for cyclists, pedestrians can also be the cause of bicycle accidents. While it may seem that a bicycle accident with a pedestrian may not do much damage, that may not be the case. If a pedestrian steps out into the path of a bicyclist, the bicyclist may not be able to stop in time. In addition, the cyclist may swerve to avoid the pedestrian causing the cyclist to crash.
Contacting a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one have been involved in a bicycle accident that was the result of the negligence of someone else, our bicycle accident lawyers may be able to help. If involved in a bicycle accident, it’s important to get witness statements if available, contact the police for a police report, take photos of the accident scene, and document your injuries.