Every road cyclist knows how quickly things can change, and how crucial it is to have strong bike-handling skills to avoid injury in a collision with a motor vehicle. At 30 mph, a cyclist is moving at 44 feet per second—fast enough that situations can escalate in the blink of an eye.
Here are some of the most common road cycling accidents and practical tips on how to avoid them.
**The Right Hook**
This is one of the most frequent types of collisions. A driver passes a cyclist on the left and then turns right into their path, often because they assume cyclists are slow. In reality, many cyclists ride at speeds close to traffic flow.
**How to Avoid It:**
Avoid passing slow-moving vehicles on the right, as this puts you in the driver’s blind spot. Instead, ride in the center of the lane—it’s your legal right in all 50 states. By taking the lane, you force drivers to wait for a safe opportunity to turn, reducing the risk of a right-hook accident.
**The Left Cross**
A driver fails to see an oncoming cyclist while making a left turn, resulting in a head-on collision. This type of accident is especially dangerous due to the high closing speed between the two vehicles.
**How to Avoid It:**
If you notice a car turning left into your path and you can’t stop, make a quick right turn to align with the car’s direction. Once it’s safe, pull over to the side and re-enter your original route.
**Dooring**
This happens when a driver opens their car door without checking for cyclists, often causing a sudden and dangerous collision.
**How to Avoid It:**
Stay at least three feet away from parked cars. If riding closer means you’re in the traffic lane, that’s fine—riding in the lane is your legal right. Always stay alert for drivers who may not be paying attention. If a door opens suddenly, try to swerve or brake quickly.
**Driveway Accidents**
Drivers entering a road from a driveway often don’t expect a cyclist, leading to potential collisions. These accidents are common in areas with many driveways or parking lots.
**How to Avoid It:**
Choose routes with fewer driveways if possible. If you must ride through such areas, stay in the traffic lane and follow the flow of traffic. Never ride on sidewalks, as drivers aren’t expecting cyclists there.
**Rear-End Collision**
One of the most feared accidents, a rear-end collision occurs when a driver hits a cyclist from behind, often without warning.
**How to Avoid It:**
Always use a bright, flashing LED taillight and headlight, even during the day. Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase visibility. Signal your intentions clearly and check over your shoulder before changing lanes or directions. Make sure drivers know you're there.
We hope you never face an accident, but if you do, it's important to know what to do. Stay calm, move to a safe location, and seek medical attention if needed. Reporting the incident to the police and documenting the scene can also help with any insurance claims or legal processes.
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