Bicycle Accidents on Delaware Roadways: What You Need to Know

Delaware offers beautiful scenery and numerous bike-friendly routes, yet bicycle accidents remain a serious concern. In 2022, 140 people were injured in bicycle accidents in Delaware. Understanding your rights, the laws in place, and the common causes of these accidents is crucial for every cyclist on Delaware roadways.

Delaware’s Vulnerable Road Users

Bicycling offers a sustainable and healthy mode of transportation, but it comes with inherent risks. Cyclists lack the protection of a motor vehicle, making them particularly vulnerable in collisions. This vulnerability is reflected in national statistics, and Delaware is no exception.

Are Delaware Roads Dangerous for Cyclists?

Delaware has, in the past, been ranked as one of the worst states for bicyclist safety. Data from the National Highway Safety Administration over the past decade listed Delaware as having one of the highest percentages of fatal accidents involving bicycles, nearly 50% higher than the national average. However, more recent data shows improvement. In 2023, there was a 29% reduction in bicyclist fatalities from the previous year.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Delaware

Several factors contribute to bicycle accidents on Delaware roadways. Some of the most prevalent include:

Driver Inattention and Distraction: The leading cause of crashes resulting in injuries is driver inattention, distraction, or fatigue. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted may fail to see cyclists, leading to collisions.
Failure to Yield: Drivers failing to yield the right-of-way to cyclists at intersections or when entering roadways is another significant cause.
** нарушение правил дорожного движения:** Несоблюдение велосипедистами правил дорожного движения, таких как использование ручных сигналов, езда в правильном направлении и соблюдение правил дорожного движения.
Sideswiping: Personal injury often occurs to riders because of motorists sideswiping them on the road.
Limited Shoulder Room: Many areas in Delaware barely have enough shoulder room, and bicyclists often must use traffic lanes, which increases the risk of personal injury.

Delaware Bicycle Laws: Rights, Responsibilities, and Safety Measures

Delaware law grants cyclists the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators, with a few exceptions. Understanding these laws is essential for safe cycling and legal protection.

Traffic Laws: Bicyclists must obey all traffic laws, including stop signs, traffic signals, and lane markings.
Helmets: All persons under the age of 18 must wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet.
Nighttime Riding: At night, bicycles must have a white headlight visible for 500 feet and a red rear reflector visible for 600 feet. Reflective material visible from both sides for 600 feet or a lighted lamp visible from both sides for 500 feet is also required. A tail light is recommended.
Hand Signals: Bicyclists must use proper hand signals to indicate turns and stops.
Riding Position: When upon a roadway you must ride as far to the right of the roadway as practicable.
The “Delaware Yield”: Delaware law allows cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs, meaning they can proceed through an intersection without stopping if it is safe to do so.
Safe Passing: Drivers must change lanes to pass bicycles in all cases where a lane is too narrow for cars and bikes to safely operate side by side.
Honking: Motorists are forbidden to honk horns at cyclists when passing except for imminent danger.
Headsets: You must not wear a headset covering both ears.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

If you are involved in a bicycle accident in Delaware, the following steps are crucial:

Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention, even if you don’t think you are seriously injured. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Report the Accident: Contact the police and file an official accident report. This report is essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Gather Information: If possible, collect information from the other driver, including their name, insurance information, and license plate number. Also, get contact information from any witnesses.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to your bicycle, the other vehicle, and any visible injuries.
Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer: A Delaware bicycle accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.

Compensation for Bicycle Accident Injuries

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical Expenses: This includes past and future medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and any necessary medical equipment.
Lost Wages: You can recover lost income if your injuries prevent you from working.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to your bicycle and other personal property.

The Role of a Delaware Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Navigating the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming. An experienced Delaware bicycle accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance by:

Investigating the Accident: Gathering evidence to determine the cause of the accident and identify all liable parties.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
Filing a Lawsuit: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney can file a lawsuit to protect your rights and pursue compensation in court.
Providing Legal Guidance: Offering expert legal advice and support throughout the entire process.

Safety Tips for Bicyclists in Delaware

While accidents can happen even when you take precautions, following these safety tips can significantly reduce your risk:

Wear a Helmet: Always wear a properly fitted helmet, regardless of your age or the length of your ride.
Be Visible: Wear bright clothing and use reflective tape, especially when riding at night or in low-light conditions.
Use Lights: Equip your bicycle with a white headlight and a red taillight for nighttime riding.
Follow Traffic Laws: Obey all traffic laws, signals, and signs.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to traffic and potential hazards.
Use Hand Signals: Clearly signal your intentions to turn or stop.
Maintain Your Bicycle: Regularly inspect your bicycle to ensure it is in good working condition.

Conclusion

Bicycle accidents on Delaware roadways can have devastating consequences. By understanding the laws, knowing your rights, and taking necessary safety precautions, you can minimize your risk and protect yourself. If you are involved in a bicycle accident, seeking legal assistance from a qualified Delaware bicycle accident lawyer is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.