Although it is still warm in North Carolina, many are looking forward to cooler weather and fall leaves. Autumn, with its vibrant colors of yellow, red, and orange, is one of the most beautiful times to ride a bicycle in North Carolina. The crisp air, the changing leaves, and the scenic beauty make cycling in nature a truly delightful experience. But what happens in late autumn when the leaves begin falling and roads become muddy and more dangerous?
Understanding the risks of bicycle accident injuries and Autumn can help you protect yourself as a bicyclist. If you have been injured, you must reach out to an attorney who can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses, property damage, lost income, and other damages.
Why is Fall Dangerous for Bicyclists in North Carolina?Fall leaves are beautiful when they are still in the trees, but they can be hazardous to bicyclists when they start falling to the ground. When leaves on the ground are eliminated, traction bicyclist tires have with the road. The loss of traction can lead to tire skidding and bicyclists losing control, falling on the ground, or colliding with other objects or vehicles.
Many do not realize leaves are wet; they do not just become soaked when it rains. They can also become what from frost when temperatures drop enough at night. In cold temperatures, there is a chance that the frost on the road or leaves can melt when you are out cycling. Precipitation can increase Vice accident incidents. Some reports have shown that bike accidents increase by more than three times when there is no drizzle or rain to when there is over an inch and a half.
Decomposing Leaves Can Be DangerousLeaves also cause another form of danger for bicyclists when they decompose in bike lanes and streets. When they decompose, a greasy film covers them, making them even more slippery, especially when they are covered by frost or water. The more the leaves are driven on by vehicles or written on by bicycles, the more they become crushed and slippery. Leaves can also cover up potholes, curbs, debris in the road, or other dangers, resulting in bicyclists colliding with them.
When bicyclists pass through leaves at a regular cycling speed, they could be surprised to find that they have gone over a pothole that can cause them to fly off their bicycle and become injured when they collide with the ground. This underscores the need to ride through leaves slowly and cautiously, always being alert to potential road hazards or potholes that could be hidden beneath the leaves.
For example, bicyclists could ride on pavement covered in fallen leaves. A bicyclist could try to avoid the leaves as much as possible but may have to ride over one area of the covered road to avoid colliding with oncoming traffic. The bicycle's tire could get caught in a hidden pothole and send the bicycle over the handlebars. Bicyclists usually use their arms to protect their heads but can still fall onto the pavement. Bicyclists can suffer fractured hands, elbows, or even facial injuries. There is always a risk of hidden danger when bicycling in the fall.
Other Causes of Bicycle Accident Injuries in the FallLeaves are not the only cause of bicycle accident injuries in the fall. As with any other time of year, being struck by a vehicle is the main cause of bicycle accident injuries. Falling off of a bicycle can also cause significant injuries. This is a stark reminder of the importance of safety precautions and the need to be mindful of bad road conditions, which can become worse in the fall and winter.
Even though it does not snow often in North Carolina, fall and winter can bring rain, thunderstorms, hail, and frost that can degrade road conditions. Roads can also become muddy and more dangerous for bicyclists. Another danger involves dogs running before cyclists when their owners do not supervise them properly. This can lead to unexpected collisions and injuries. It is important to be aware of these potential dangers when cycling in the fall.
Contact a Skilled Bicycle Accident Attorney in North CarolinaIf you or your loved one have been seriously injured in a bicycle accident in North Carolina, you are not alone. Do not hesitate to contact Arnold & Smith, PLLC, to schedule a complimentary case evaluation with a skilled bicycle accident attorney.
We only charge our clients once we successfully recover compensation for them through an insurance settlement or lawsuit. This process involves negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court to secure financial compensation for your injuries and other losses. Contact Arnold & Smith, PLLC, to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our skilled attorneys.