Bicycle Accidents Can Be Devastating
The green movement and the popularity of cycling for recreation and fitness is making St. Louis bicycle accidents a critical safety issue for an increasing number of riders. Ryan R. Cox & Associates, LLC, understands these accidents most often involve middle-aged men. As such, they can be financially devastating to a family left struggling with medical bills, lost wages, and the cost of rehabilitation.
Understanding The Statistics
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports:
- 70% of bicycle accidents occur in urban areas.
- Three-quarters of those accidents happen during daylight hours.
- Two-thirds occur at nonintersections.
- 630 riders were killed in bicycle accidents in 2009 and more than 50,000 were injured.
Over the last decade, the average age of a rider killed in a St. Louis bicycle accident has increased from 35 to 39, while the average age of a rider injured has climbed from 25 to 29. Today, two-thirds of riders injured or killed are aged 25 to 64. Nearly 90% are men.
Still, cycling is a wonderful exercise and offers environmentally friendly travel and recreational opportunities throughout the St. Louis area. In 2008, Bike St. Louis announced the completion of Phase 2 of a multi-year, multimillion-dollar infrastructure improvement project – with it came the addition of 57 additional miles of on-street bike routes through St. Louis County and the City of St. Louis.
The Great Rivers Greenway District is promoting the development of a region-wide system known as the River Ring – which will join two states and cover 1,216 miles.
Like motorcycle accidents, St. Louis cycling accidents frequently involve very serious or fatal injuries. Traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries, crush injuries, and amputation injuries are too often the result. Complicating matters is the fact that it’s not unusual for a rider to be seriously injured or killed by a hit-and-run driver.
Call Today To Learn More
Medical bills and the cost of rehabilitation can be astronomical. For example, a ride in an ambulance and the initial emergency room care can easily top $10,000. Immediately consulting with an experienced St. Louis personal injury lawyer or wrongful death attorney is a critical step in protecting your rights and the financial well-being of you and your family. A reputable attorney at our firm will meet with you free of charge should you choose us – either at the office, in your home, or at the hospital.
If you or a family member has been injured in a St. Louis bicycle accident, please contact personal injury attorney Ryan R. Cox at 636-946-6886. We will personally meet with you, free of charge, whether that’s at one of our offices, at your home, or in the hospital.
