With warmer weather on its way there are more bicyclists on the roads. Many people see cycling to work as a healthier alternative to driving. In Seattle it is even Bike to Work month with many people cycling their way to their jobs instead of using other means. With more cyclists sharing the road the chance of a car accident is also higher.
A bicycle rider was killed on May 1st when he collided with a semi on a Seattle roadway. The cyclist was riding on East Marginal Way when he collided with the semi. The area had many hazards including railway tracks and bumpy pavement. The cyclist was known to be very skilled and there were calls to make the route safer for bicycle riders.
Seattle welcomes many bicycle commuters. There are also many pleasure riders all around the city. In Seattle bicycle riders have the same rights on the road as other motorized vehicles. Bicycle accidents often result in more serious injuries. In a vehicle a driver is more protected because of safety features such as airbags and seatbelts and the frame of the car or truck. A bicycle is exposed thus the rider is exposed completely aside from their helmet. Most bicycle accidents are caused by two things either the driver of a vehicle or the type of road and hazards within it.
Bicycle injuries are often more severe. Broken bones as well as other back and neck injuries are common. Medical bills and missed work can be very expensive if in an accident. Drivers need to be more aware of bicycles in Seattle. If injured it is best to know your rights in a personal injury claim.
Source: Seattle Post-Intelligencer, “Riders honor cyclist killed in semi-truck accident,” Joshua Trujillo, May 7, 2013