Bicycles have become more popular than ever as a result of the COVID pandemic. Bike sales are up over 50% during 2020 and 2021, and many manufacturers and retailers are reporting shortages of available bikes to sell.
Unfortunately, the increased use of bicycles also means an increase in bike injuries. Statistics published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration from before the pandemic are striking, and the numbers have probably increased since 2019, the last year statistics are available.
- 846 people were killed in bicycle incidents in 2019, and over 300,000 people were injured.
- Regardless of the season, bicyclist deaths occurred most often between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.
- Bicyclist deaths occur most often in urban areas (78%) compared to rural areas (22%) in 2019.
- Bicyclist deaths were 6 times higher for males than females in 2019.
- One in four fatal bike crashes in 2019 involved a bicyclist who had been drinking alcohol.
Knowing the laws regarding bicycles can help riders to stay safe. Here are some of the key Massachusetts laws to be aware of:
- Bicyclists must obey all traffic laws and regulations when riding on a public street. That means riding with the flow of traffic, stopping at stop signs, and obeying traffic lights and one-way street signs.
- Bicyclists must yield the right of way to all pedestrians and must give an “audible signal” when passing a pedestrian.
- All bicyclists age 16 or younger must wear a helmet.
- Front lights and rear lights or reflectors are required from a half hour before sunset to a half hour after sunrise.
- Bicycle crashes causing injuries or more than $100 in property damage must be reported to the local police.
- Bicyclists can be fined $20 for any violations of these laws.
Contact Our Bicycle Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Our experienced Massachusetts personal injury lawyers have handled many cases involving bicyclists who have been struck by cars. Some were even visiting from out of state. Some of these cases involve very serious injuries. We have also successfully represented pedestrians who have been hit by someone on a bicycle. If you or anyone you know has been injured as a result of a bicycle accident, please contact us to learn more about your right to obtain compensation for your injuries. These cases are handled on a contingent fee basis which means no money is owed unless we are successful in collecting money compensation on the case. Contact us now for a free and confidential consultation.
