While I hope you’re enjoying the wonderful summer we’re having, as a Memphis bike accident lawyer, I want to remind everyone that the roads get more dangerous this time of year. Kids and teens riding bikes around the neighborhoods need to be extra careful.
According to the journal Accident Analysis & Prevention, from 2006 to 2015, 600 kids aged 5 to 17 were treated in emergency rooms each day — or 25 kids per hour. Many experts and safety organizations, such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), report that more bike accidents happen from May to September than any other time of year. 10- to 15-year-olds are most at risk.
It makes sense, too. Summer break means less supervision; warmer weather often means rides to friends’ houses, parks, or swimming pools. But with every ride, children face a chance of colliding with a motorist.
Most Common Injuries From Bike Accidents
Head injuries. 11% of the total injuries kids were treated for from 2006-2015 were traumatic injuries. Riding without a helmet is a leading factor in these severe cases.
Fractures. Falls can lead to fractures, broken bones, and sprains.
Soft tissue injuries. These include cuts, scrapes, and bruises.
Preventive Measures
Always wear a helmet. The single most important thing for your child to do is wear a helmet — and a properly-fitting one at that. Some studies have found that helmets lower the risk of severe head injuries by approximately 70%. Helmet laws are typically stricter for kids and teens than adults, but even older riders should wear one: kids are likelier to put on a helmet if their parents do.
Get other protective gear. Many collisions with motorists happen because drivers cannot see cyclists. Installing lights and reflectors will keep your son or daughter in sight, and visibility leads to fewer crashes. Lights also help your kids see any obstacles on the path. In addition, children should ring bells while passing other cyclists or crossing busy intersections.
Follow basic road safety rules. No cyclist, even an older one, should ride against traffic, ignore traffic signs and signals, or use electronic devices. As parents, you should review these rules with your child, or even consider enrolling them in an affordable bike safety class.
More cyclists on the road doesn’t always mean more cautious drivers. As motorists, we can do our part to ensure kids stay safe this summer. Every driver should yield to cyclists at intersections, respect bike lanes, and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Talk to a Memphis bike accident lawyer today.
If you or your child have been injured while riding your bike, you could be entitled to compensation. Our award-winning personal injury lawyers can help you identify your best options moving forward in a free consultation with a Memphis bike accident lawyer.
Call us at (901) 327-1212 or contact us here.