Cycling has become more popular in recent years. Many people in Maryland of all ages regularly ride bicycles either for exercise or as an alternate form of transportation. Unfortunately, the increased popularity of cycling coincides with a significant increase in major traffic incidents.
When looking at preliminary data from 2023, it becomes quite clear that it is a dangerous time for cyclists to be out on the road. How many cyclists are experiencing major crashes and serious injuries?
Cycling crashes tend to be more severe
A collision involving a bicycle colliding with a motor vehicle has the potential to be relatively serious. Those who get into crashes while inside four-wheeled vehicles have the protection of multiple different safety systems including restraints and vehicles designed to absorb the force of impact. Cyclists do not have any such protection.
When a motor vehicle strikes a bicycle, the cyclist may suffer immediate traumatic injuries. They may also end up in the street, putting them at risk of getting hit again by another vehicle. That may be why Maryland reports that
Maryland has long tracked the number of bicycle collisions that occur. For example, as many as 92% of collisions between cyclists and motor vehicles result in injury or death, at least based on figures from 2019. As of October 2023, there had been 13 cyclist fatalities. 2024 has already seen numerous concerning collisions resulting in injury and death across Maryland.
What rights do cyclists have?
Cyclists involved in serious collisions do have certain legal rights. They can potentially hold the driver who caused the crash accountable. That process often begins with a car insurance claim. However, the coverage required to drive in Maryland may not be high enough given the expenses a cycling crash could cause.
Cyclists with serious injuries may need to file personal injury lawsuits against the driver who caused the collision. In scenarios where a cyclist dies because of a crash, litigation may also be necessary. Surviving family members can potentially pursue a wrongful death lawsuit in response to a deadly cycling collision.
Successfully holding drivers accountable for causing car-bicycle crashes can lead to both a sense of justice served and appropriate compensation. Cyclists who understand that their risk levels are higher now than in years past may find it easier to fight for their own rights – and the rights of fellow cyclists – after a crash.