We spend a lot of time on this blog talking about the legal aspects of Philadelphia area car accidents. And when someone hears the words car accident, it is easy to envision two cars smashed together.
But several hundred times throughout the year, a different kind of car accident occurs. Bicyclists have less protection (no seat belts or air bags, for instance) than car drivers and therefore have a higher risk of receiving extreme injuries if they are involved in a crash. Below, we take a look at some of the most important statistical and legal aspects of bicycle accidents.
PA Statistics
We gleaned these stats from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s 2012 Pennsylvania Crash Facts and Statistics handbook.
- 16 bicyclists died and 1,377 were injured in 2012 accidents — both numbers represent increases from 2011.
- There were 1,369 crashes in 2012 statewide.
- Children ages 5-14 suffered the most injuries while riding a bicycle (441).
- People aged 20-34 had the highest number of injuries.
- People in the age group of 45-64 had the highest number of deaths.
- 81% of the deaths of bicyclists occurred on state roads, while 54% of the injuries occurred on non-state roads.
Law
Victims of bicycle accidents have the right to pursue compensation for resulting expenses and damages. Medical bills, broken equipment, and lost wages from work may all be recovered. A claim can be filed against:
- The at-fault driver: negligent and reckless drivers can be held responsible for the damages.
- The bike manufacturer: a defective bicycle or accessory may have caused the accident.
- The government: some accidents are a direct result of dangerous roadway conditions.
What to Do if You are Involved in a Bicycle Accident in the Philadelphia Area
Basically, you need to treat a bicycle accident as you would a car or truck accident. We have links to articles that detail what to do immediately after an accident, as well as what to do in the days that follow.
Philadelphia area residents involved in bicycle accidents should contact our office for a free consultation. There are several factors to consider before making a claim or filing a court case, and you need the best advice from an experienced, skillful bicycle accident attorney. Also, take a look at our FAQ to learn more about the laws and stats surrounding these scary accidents.
