Despite expanded prevention efforts across the nation, fatalities among bicycle riders have increased. In 2015, nearly 1,000 bicyclists were killed in accidents, a 12 percent jump over the previous year.
Decades ago, children and teens accounted for many of the cycling deaths, injuries and near misses, however, more recently, older cyclists have joined their ranks as the popularity of cycling has risen. Many more people than ever before are using their bikes to get to and from work as well as recreational activities, which putting them at risk for a motor vehicle accident.
Many attribute the rise in fatalities not only to the increasing number of cyclists but also to the ever growing number of cars on the road. Most bicycle injuries and fatalities involve incidents where drivers of a car do not see cyclists even when many cyclist believe they are seen. Unfortunately, bicycles are no match for a car, so any collisions can potentially be fatal to a cyclist especially when many do not wear protective gear.
In Iowa, hundreds of cycling crashes involving motor vehicles occur each year, with more than 4,000 reported between the years of 2005 and 2014 that resulted in incapacitating injuries and fatalities. State data shows that bicycle motor vehicle crashes largely occur in the city with over 90 percent happening in urban areas such as Des Moines.
Despite efforts in Des Moines to provide protected bike lanes, many of the problems occur when bikes and cars and even pedestrians start mixing at intersections. In fact, more than 50 percent of Iowa car and bicycle crashes take place at roadway crossings or intersections, with cars failing to yield the right of way cited as a big part of the problem.
If you or a family member is injured in an accident involving a car and bicycle, it is important to seek the help on an experienced personal injury attorney. Iowa personal injury attorney Marc A. Humphrey is committed to protecting the rights of Iowans that have sustained serious injuries. Contact the law firm of Marc A. Humphrey for immediate assistance and a free consultation at 515-331-3510.
