Bicyclists put their lives on the line when they head out on the roads throughout Colorado Springs. Whether out training for a marathon or enjoying our pleasant weather, cyclists are the most exposed group on the road and often at the mercy of other drivers. While proper training for both bicyclists and drivers can help eliminate bicycle accidents in our communities, new technology may also lend a helping hand.
Pedestrian Safety and Modern Vehicles
Auto manufacturers have made great strides in improving the safety features of the average sedan or SUV, particularly for pedestrians. It was not too long ago that manufacturers started adding rearview cameras to help drivers back out and avoid injuring pedestrians caught in their blind spots. But now, they have gone further and developed automated systems that detect pedestrians before even the driver does.
Pedestrian detection systems utilize advanced sensors to scan the area in front of a car and warn the driver if there is an obstacle in their path. In addition, some models will apply automatic brakes or lower the vehicle’s speed to assist the driver in preventing a collision. This technology is not limited to detecting the average runner or jogger; it also applies to bicyclists. If a driver is coming up alongside a bike lane or crosswalk, these sensors can quickly spot a bicyclist and prevent a serious bicycle accident.
The New Generation of Smart Bikes
Cars are not the only vehicles getting upgrades. Researchers at Northeastern University have been working on bicycles with technology that would automatically detect potential accidents. iCAPS, or the Interactive Cyclists Accident Prevention System, utilizes proximity sensors to tell if a car is within three feet of a bicycle and releases a loud alert to warn drivers and bicyclists before they collide. iCAPS also uses a system of lasers to project emergency bike paths on the road to help the rider safely navigate away from danger. While this tech is still in the testing phase, it can empower bicyclists to keep safer while on traffic-congested roads.
Minimizing Injuries During Collisions
Wearing a helmet is one of the most important decisions a bicyclist can make to keep himself safe. At least 57% of all bicyclist deaths involve a rider who was not wearing a helmet. However, helmets are not the only type of protective gear bicyclists can wear to prevent fatal injuries. Padded jackets, pants, and gloves that minimize skin exposure are vital to avoiding severe road rash and degloving, which can cause extensive trauma and blood loss. Even just wearing knee and elbow pads can reduce your risk of suffering painful fractures.
Standing Up for Bicyclists in Colorado Springs
Even with all this new technology, bicyclists’ safety is still largely in the hands of the drivers around them. All it takes is one glance at a cell phone or a failure to check a blind spot for a driver to drastically change a bicyclist’s life. The costs of these collisions can follow bicyclists for years as they deal with extensive medical treatment, lost income, and disabilities.
If you were injured in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, reach out to our Colorado Springs personal injury attorneys as soon as possible. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., is here to fight for injured bicyclists and protect their right to compensation after a collision. We can sit down with you in a free initial consultation, learn about your injuries, explain your options, and advocate for your best interests in a personal injury claim. Call us today at (719) 475-2555 to get started.