Serious bicycle accidents occur many times each day in the United States, and kids have the greatest risk of suffering a significant injury as a result. In fact, thousands of kids are seriously injured or killed in bike accidents each year. Some of these collisions may be attributed to rider error; such as riding against traffic or darting in front of a moving vehicle. However, a large percentage of bicycle accidents are caused by driver negligence, usually by a failure to keep a proper lookout for bicyclists.
Bicycle Collision Injuries
In the blink of an eye, a careless driver can strike a child on a bike. The result of this collision can be catastrophic, regardless of whether the child was hit on the road or in a driveway. Kids involved in biking accidents often suffer broken bones, head and brain trauma and paralyzing spinal cord injuries. In some cases, the injuries are permanently disabling or even fatal.
Unlike motorists, bicyclists do not have the protection of seat belts and airbags. Helmets can save bike riders from many head injuries, yet studies have shown that nearly half of all children fail to wear helmets when riding, even in states with mandatory helmet laws. Without the protection of a helmet, kids involved in bicycle accidents are more likely to experience severe injury or death. Even children who do wear safety gear are at risk of harm.
Risk Factors for Bicycle Accidents
Research from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has shown that bicycle accidents involving children, adolescents and young adults account for nearly 60 percent of all bicycle-related injuries seen in hospitals and emergency rooms. And, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, a large percentage of all bicyclists killed are under the age of 15. Males are at the greatest risk for being injured in a bike accident, but any child not wearing a helmet is 14 percent more likely to suffer fatal injuries in motor-vehicle related bicycle collisions.
Dealing with the Aftermath of a Bike Accident
When a child is seriously injured in a bicycle collision, the consequences can be devastating. Medical bills can be overwhelming, especially if the child needs ongoing treatment. The recovery process from serious bicycle accidents can be long and complicated, often involving surgery and intense rehabilitation. Families of children who are injured or killed while riding bikes may be able to recover damages from the parties responsible for the collision. Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering and even bicycle repair or replacement costs.
Victims of serious bike collisions have rights, and working with an experienced personal injury lawyer can be the best way to hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence. Has your child been involved in a serious bike accident in the Boise, Idaho, area? If so, contact the attorneys at Montgomery Dowdle Law for a free consultation. With 35 years of experience, they can answer all your questions regarding your children and bicycle accidents.