Between 2010 and 2012, the number of bicyclists killed in accidents involving motor vehicles in the U.S. has risen by 16 percent, reports the Los Angeles Times. The statistics were obtained from the nonprofit Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA).
According to the GHSA’s report, 722 bicyclists were killed in accidents involving automobiles in 2012, which is an increase of 6 percent from the previous year and a 16 percent increase from 2010.
Many of those fatalities could have been prevented if helmets were worn. In many states, the law requires minors to wear helmets while bike riding. Generally, state or federal laws do not require adults to wear helmets. Local laws, however, may require helmets in some jurisdictions.
GHSA reports that 28 percent of bicycle riders killed in motor vehicle crashes had blood alcohol levels over the legal limit. Drinking and riding are not a good mix.
The report showed that the overwhelming majority (9 in 10) of bicycle fatality victims are adult males, with 88 percent of those killed in 2012 being men.
Deadly accidents increasingly occur in urban areas. The report demonstrates that 69 percent of fatal bike accidents occurred in urban areas in 2012.
Bike accidents can and do result in serious or fatal injuries. Similar to injuries or deaths sustained in automobile accidents, damages may be recovered through a personal injury lawsuit.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a bike accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Contact one of our Gacovino Lake attorneys at 1-800-246-HURT (4878) to discuss your options.
