California Bike Accident Attorneys
Northern California Bicycle Accident Statistics
The following bicycle accident statistics are summarized from a variety of sources, including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, US Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Children's Safety Network, and the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center.
Bicycle Accident Statistics - from 2008 (released in 2010 and still the most recent information available)
- Bicyclist Deaths in 2008: 716
- Bicyclist Injuries in 2008: 52,000
- Alcohol was involved in 37% of bicyclist deaths in 2008.
- Bicyclist Head Juries requiring trips to the E.R.: approximately 150,000 per year
- Head injuries account for over 60% of bicycle fatalities.
In 2007, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission reported in their "Product Related Injury Report" that there were 515,871 injuries related to bicycles and accessories.
What causes bicycle accidents?
Those who operate motor vehicles are responsible for safely navigating the roads they share with cyclists. It is the unfortunate truth that in the majority of Northern California bicycle accidents, the negligence of a motor vehicle driver is the direct cause of bicycle accidents.
Common driver errors include:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Pulling out of a driveway or parking lot in front of a bicyclist
- Failing to yield
- Ignoring a traffic signal or sign
- Opening a car door in front of a bicyclist
- Merging into the path of a bicyclist
- Forcing a cyclist off the road
Cyclist errors include:
- Failing to yield
- Merging or turning into the path of a motorist
- Not wearing protective safety gear
Environmental factors also contribute to bicycle accidents:
- Dangerous road conditions
- Poor lighting
- Potholes, road debris, or tree branches
- Dog attacks
Local resources for Northern California Bicyclists:
- California Bicycle Coalition (CBC): Nonprofit organization working to improve bicycling conditions throughout California.
- Sacramento Area Bicycle Advocates: Improving the bicycling experience in Sacramento - this site has links for everything from maps to the effects of diesel exhaust fumes on cyclists.
- Sacramento Area Council of Governments (SACOG): SACOG approves the distribution of affordable housing in the region and assists in planning for transit, bicycle networks, clean air and airport land uses. The site allows you to print the Bicycle Commuting Guide and has links to bike maps and resources.
- San Francisco Bicycle Coalition: A coalition of thousands of cyclists who are promoting the bicycle for everyday transportation.
- Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition: A bicycle advocacy group improving the bicycling environment in the Silicon Valley.
- Marin County Bicycle Coalition: A bicycle advocacy group with a goal: "Our goal is for 20% of all trips in Marin to be made by walking or bicycling by 2020."
- Responsible Organized Mountain Pedalers (ROMP): Mountain cycling advocates in San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, the experienced San Jose bike accident attorneys at Van Der Walde & Associates have helped many clients throughout Northern California. We are recognized as a leader in personal injury litigation because we are dedicated to aggressively fighting for our clients' rights. Call our office today for a free case evaluation so that you will know your legal options (877) 862-6288.
