How Common are Bicycle Accidents in Utah?
Bicycling is unique in that it serves as both a mode of transportation and a hobby for enthusiasts. Since the invention of the modern bike in the early 1800s, bicycling has become one of the most popular and reliable forms of transportation worldwide. In recent years, bicycling has become even more popular, with 35% of all Americans aged three or older having ridden a bike at least once in 2024. That number is expected to increase in 2025. This is especially true for juveniles, with recent data showing that 56% of people aged 17 and younger are regular bike riders.
The use of a bicycle comes with the risk of accidents. Often, bicycle accidents are routine and result from factors such as uneven terrain, unexpected debris, and human error. Proper safety precautions and gear usually prevent these accidents from becoming more serious. Under some circumstances, though, bicycle accidents aren’t just avoidable; they’re the result of someone else’s carelessness. This can be especially true in Utah.
As of 2024, Utah is one of the leading states in America for bicycle accidents. In 2023, Utah hit a five-year high for bicycle accidents, with 548 reported collisions between automobiles and bikes. That placed Utah among the top ten states in the union for bike accidents. Of those 548 collisions, nine were fatal, and 55 resulted in serious injuries. 70% of these accidents were the result of a driver failing to yield to a bicyclist who had the right of way. In many instances, drivers’ insurance companies will attempt to pay out the minimum amount possible in the event of an accident. This includes accidents involving bicyclists. This is why if you or a loved one were severely injured in a bicycle accident, it’s essential to contact an experienced personal injury attorney.
How Serious are Bicycle Accidents?
Many people who have only ever been in minor bicycle accidents are unaware of how serious they can be. Television shows and movies often feature physical comedy sequences in which bike riders get hit by vehicles. In real life, accidents involving bikes and cars are no laughing matter.
Even a minor collision involving a car going as low as 35mph carries with it a 50% chance of severe injury and a 25% chance of death. Those numbers increase as the speed of the car increases. A bicyclist hit by a car going 45mph or more has a 90% chance of severe injury and a 50% chance of dying. These numbers can change based on the size and type of the vehicle. For example, someone may have a greater chance of serious injury if struck by a large truck going 35mph versus a smaller vehicle.
Other factors, such as whether the bicyclist was wearing safety gear and the location of the accident, can potentially increase the likelihood of serious injuries.
Can I Sue if I’m Involved in a Bicycle Accident?
Yes. Many people are unaware of this. Many bicyclists treat accidents the same way they would fender benders or other traffic collisions. They exchange insurance information with the driver, file a report, and often take whatever offer the driver’s insurance company gives them. This is a mistake. Insurance companies do not exist to pay money to people who deserve it. Their first priority is to protect themselves and their clients. This involves paying out as little as possible in the event of an accident.
Insurance companies may even look for excuses not to pay out any money at all. They will look for reasons to blame you for your own accident. They may try to claim you were riding irresponsibly, not aware of your surroundings, or that you engaged in behavior that caused your own accident. If an insurance company does decide to pay, they will often offer you a minimal amount of money and hope you accept it.
Even if you try holding out for a higher offer, insurance companies will frequently attempt to pressure bicyclists into accepting a quick settlement. They rely on people being eager to get money to pay for their hospital bills and other expenses. These settlements will often not be enough to compensate accident victims adequately. On the other hand, insurance companies are often eager to settle and avoid going to court when dealing with attorneys. If the case goes to court, a bicyclist represented by a personal injury attorney has a greater chance of winning and receiving more money than if they represent themselves.
What Evidence Do I Need to Bring My Attorney?
A personal injury attorney can help you compile the necessary evidence to bring to court. You do not have to have it already when contacting an attorney. Many people do not realize what evidence can benefit them in the event of an accident. In many instances, an attorney will make collecting evidence much more straightforward than if you try to obtain it on your own. An experienced defense attorney will know what evidence to gather. Depending on the circumstances of the case, an attorney may even collect evidence on your behalf.
Evidence that can prove crucial in a bicycle accident case includes but is not necessarily limited to:
- Security Camera Footage
- Bystander Cell Phone Footage
- Crime Scene Photos
- Post-Accident Photos
- Police Reports
- Eyewitness Testimony
- Medical Records
These are only a few potential pieces of evidence that may prove crucial to your case. You will not only need to demonstrate that it was the other driver’s fault you were hit but also the extent of your injuries. An experienced personal injury attorney can gather the proper evidence and use it to build a case on your behalf.
What Should I Do if I’m in a Bicycle Accident?
Bicycle accidents are serious. What happens in an instant can lead to a lifetime of recovery. In some instances, injuries sustained in a bicycle accident can be permanent.
William Enoch Andrews prides himself on being kind to his clients and aggressive with insurance companies. He believes every bicyclist should be able to get where they’re going and enjoy their day safely without fear of injury from irresponsible drivers. He also doesn’t think insurance companies should get away with paying nothing or next to nothing when people get seriously injured.
If you or a loved one were seriously hurt in a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact William Enoch Andrews, Injury Lawyer, PC, at 385-483-4703 for a free fifteen-minute initial phone consultation.
