When a person goes outside to enjoy a bicycle ride, the last thing he or she expects is to become involved in an accident – thus becoming a statistic. It is natural for people to assume that nothing bad will happen when enjoying free time. Regrettably, accidents are rarely in our control. The following information provided in this article highlights the most recent bicycle accident statistics within the State of California.

Statistics and Facts Regarding Bike Accidents in California

Before we examine the data, it is important to note that collected information is not always 100% accurate as it is updated constantly and changes over time. This can happen because some accidents are not reported to the police. Furthermore, agencies that collect information may only report information involving specific factors. For instance, the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration will only report studies that involve accidents involving the cyclist colliding with a vehicle.

The following is a collection of data reported by the following agencies: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration.

  • On a national level, the State of California is among the leading states that have the most fatal accidents involving bike accidents.
  • Bicycle-related casualties accounted for an average of 3% of California’s total vehicle accident fatalities. This is higher than the national average, which is estimated to be at about 2%.
  • The State of California was the first to pass a helmet law that states that bicyclists 17 and under must wear approved helmets.
  • Most recently, there were a reported 48,000 injuries from auto-related accidents.
  • Each year, medical facilities treat over 500,000 patients for bicycle-related injuries.
  • Patients 15 years of age and younger account for approximately 60% of hospitalized injuries.
  • When a bicyclist wears the proper headgear, he or she has the probability of reducing head or brain injury up to 85%.
  • The most common injuries involving bicycles are head and brain injuries.
  • Bicycle-related deaths make less than 2% of casualties involving auto accidents.
  • The number of these fatalities decreased by 61% between the years 1975 and 2010.
  • Since the year 2010, however, the number of fatalities has dramatically increased by nearly 20%.
  • A majority of bicycle fatalities will happen in the midst of summer and in the evening hours.

When Injured in a Bicycle Accident, Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Who Rides

Riding a bicycle can be a very relaxing exercise that can provide many health benefits. As careful as a cyclist is, however, accidents can happen. If you or someone you know was recently involved in a bicycle accident, it’s critical to know what to do after an accident and seek the legal skills of a professional attorney.

Scot Moga is highly experienced in handling cases involving bicycle accidents in the State of California. Mr. Moga has helped accident victims obtain the financial restitution they deserve after they have suffered injuries because of a negligent person. If you or a family member have suffered injuries from an accident, act swiftly; personal injury cases in California are subject to strict time limitations. Consider obtaining the legal support you need during this difficult time.