The majority of people blame drivers of motor vehicles for bicycle accidents, and most of the time they are correct in their thoughts. However, negligent bicyclists' actions have also led to many Atlanta accidents.

Because bicycle wrecks in Atlanta and throughout Georgia can cause very serious injuries, both motorists and cyclists should do their best to avoid collisions at all costs. However, bicycle crashes still occur at a disturbing rate.

What are the common reasons for Atlanta bicycle accidents?

Common causes of a bicycle accidents triggered by cyclists include:

  • Running a red light
  • Not stopping at a stop sign
  • Not crossing the street at a crosswalk 
  • Riding two cyclists across the bike lane
  • Not signaling intentions
  • Not using lights at night

Atlanta bicycle crashes caused by motor vehicle drivers' actions include:

  • Drivers running a red light
  • Drivers not stopping at a stop sign
  • Speeding and aggressive driving
  • Distracted driving
  • Drunk driving
  • Not looking before turning
  • Not following the safe passing laws and giving a bicyclist three feet while passing

These examples indicate how both motor vehicle drivers and cyclists need to obey the rules of the road, share the road, be courteous to one another, indicate their intentions to each other, and look out for one another while traveling on the same road.

Because motor vehicles are bigger, have more power, travel faster, and weigh more than a bicycle, they can pose more danger to a bicyclist than a cyclist can create. This is why it is crucial that drivers pass a cyclist at a safe distance and always be on the lookout for bicyclists. This way, drivers may be able to avoid hurting cyclists and causing critical injuries, such as spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, head trauma, broken collar bones, paralysis, and even death.

If you have been injured in an Atlanta bike accident due to a negligent driver of a motor vehicle, you may have rights to recovery. Contact a skilled Atlanta bicycle accident attorney with The Dover Law Firm at 1.770.518.1133 today. Our Atlanta personal injury lawyers will provide you with a free legal evaluation of your case and answer your questions. Also, be sure to request our FREE book, 4 Common Mistakes that Will Ruin Your Georgia Car or Truck Claim.