Learning to ride a bicycle can be an exciting and exhilarating time for youth, as they are able to explore this new mode of movement. For both children and adults who ride bicycles, there can also be risks of serious injury. According to accident statistics from sources including the National Safety Council, the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, and Stanford Medicine, each year, approximately 100 children are killed and 254,000 are injured as a result of bicycle-related accidents. The drivers of motor vehicles share the roads with cars, bicyclists, and pedestrians, and bicyclists have the same rights as those of drivers of motor vehicles. Children, who have a much smaller stature and can be harder to identify and see from a distance, may also not be fully aware of the rules that may keep them safe. Drivers must pay close attention to their surroundings, including paying special attention to any children who may be around and riding their bikes.
A recent news article revealed that a man has been criminally charged with a misdemeanor in connection with a crash that resulted in the death of an 11-year-old boy in Arizona. The 11-year-old boy was riding a bicycle at the time of the accident, and the car driver stayed at the scene of the crash and cooperated with the investigation.
Accident Prevention
There are some precautions and riding habits that we can teach children as they ride bikes. This includes ensuring that children are wearing proper and well-fitting helmets and protective gear, teaching children road rules and enforcing that they follow the rules, reminding children to always remain aware of drivers, wearing appropriate colors that allow drivers to see them, and ensuring that children ride their bicycles at appropriate hours of the day when it is not dark.
Who Is Responsible for a Children’s Bike Accident?
Although taking the necessary precautions and having safe habits can be helpful, accidents happen and may not always be able to be prevented. When bicycle accidents happen and when they involve children, it can be scary because of some of the severe risks that children may face, including brain injury and broken bones. A driver who is found to be at fault for injuries after a bicycle-related accident may be held liable for injuries that resulted from the accident due to their negligence. Each state has different laws regarding accidents and personal-injury suits, including the statute of limitations (or the deadline by which a suit must be filed). This is why it may be important to find a lawyer in your state who has expertise in the law. If your child has been injured in a bicycle accident, connect with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you navigate claims.
Have You or a Loved One Suffered Injuries after a Maryland Bicycle-Related Accident
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries after being involved in a bike accident in Maryland, contact Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC today for help with your case. Our attorneys approach their work not only with the compassion and understanding needed to help you and your family during a difficult time, but our attorneys also have the dedication and experience needed to help you recover damages. To schedule an initial consultation for free, with no obligation, call us today at 800-654-1949.