Bicyclist Killed in Bradenton Crash
Bicyclists face a lot of dangers on busy streets. They may be legally allowed to ride with larger passenger vehicles but it is not always a good idea. It is easy for them to end up in a serious crash, especially in the late night and early morning hours.
Sadly, a man was recently killed in a crash in Bradenton. The fatal accident occurred in the early morning hours of June 5 at the intersection of 3rd Street West and 53rd Avenue West.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol a 30-year-old man from Bradenton was stopped in the inside lane of traffic. He was attempting to fix his bicycle when he was hit by a Ram 5500 truck. He died at the accident scene.
The driver of the Ram was not injured. He was identified as a 59-year-old man from Dover. The eastbound lanes of 3rd Street West later reopened.
Dangers of Bicycles in Roadway
Bicycles can be a practical and healthy form of transportation, but riding on roadways involves several risks. The main dangers include:
- Collisions with motor vehicles:
- Drivers may fail to see cyclists, especially at intersections, driveways, or when turning.
- Speed differences between bicycles and cars can increase crash severity.
- Distracted, impaired, or aggressive driving can put cyclists at risk.
- Intersection hazards:
- Many bicycle crashes occur at intersections.
- Drivers may turn across a cyclist’s path.
- Visibility can be reduced by parked cars, signs, or other traffic.
- Dooring:
- A person in a parked vehicle may open a door into a cyclist’s path without looking.
- This can cause the cyclist to strike the door or swerve into traffic.
- Road surface conditions:
- Potholes, cracks, loose gravel, wet leaves, debris, and railroad tracks can cause loss of control.
- Hazards that are minor for cars can be dangerous for bicycles.
- Limited visibility:
- Cyclists can be difficult for drivers to spot, especially at night, in poor weather, or in blind spots.
- Dark clothing and inadequate lighting increase the risk.
- Weather and environmental conditions:
- Rain reduces traction and visibility.
- Strong winds can affect bicycle stability.
- Heat can contribute to dehydration and fatigue.
You can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries by:
- Wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet.
- Use front and rear lights and reflectors, especially in low-light conditions.
- Follow traffic laws and ride predictably.
- Increase visibility with bright or reflective clothing.
- Stay alert for turning vehicles and opening car doors.
- Maintain the bicycle’s brakes, tires, and other components.
- Choose routes with bike lanes, lower traffic volumes, or lower speed limits when possible.
Contact Us Today
Car accidents can be fatal, especially when bicyclists are involved. Bike riders should take care when riding on streets with larger vehicles.
Car crashes can be life-changing. Get the help you need from a Bradenton car accident lawyer from Cahall Law Firm. You may not know what to do following a crash but we can guide you through the process and avoid common mistakes. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling (941) 281-2019.
Source:
wfla.com/news/local-news/manatee-county/fatal-crash-closes-road-in-bradenton/
