Bicycle riding is a fun activity that many people enjoy in Arkansas. According to an article published by The New York Times, in 2024, more than a third of Bentonville city in Arkansas reported riding a bike at least once a month.
But, with so many bikes on the road in Arkansas, there is also a greater risk of accidents, especially when drivers are not paying attention. Did you know that in 2020 alone, 60,000 crashes in Arkansas were caused by distracted driving? 19 of these led to fatalities. Despite the state being the least dangerous in terms of distracted driving, the risk still lingers.
When injured while cycling by a distracted driver, consulting the best bicycle accident lawyer in Arkansas can increase your chances of getting fair compensation. Let’s take a closer look at how distraction contributed to bicycle accidents in Arkansas.
Post Contents
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving happens any time a driver takes their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off driving. It can be something as simple as texting or talking on the phone. Distractions can also include eating, adjusting the radio or GPS, or daydreaming.
Even a moment of distraction can be enough to cause a serious accident. When a driver looks away for just a few seconds, they may not notice a cyclist riding nearby.
Why Cyclists Are at Greater Risk in Arkansas
Unlike cars, bicycles are small and don’t stand out easily in traffic. That makes it easier for a distracted driver to overlook them. Cyclists often ride near the edge of the road or in bike lanes. Therefore, a drifting car can easily cross their space with zero warning.
Many bicycle accidents happen at intersections where a distracted driver may fail to yield or stop in time. Statistics show that in Central Arkansas, 63% of bicycle vs. car accidents happen at intersections.
Drivers may make turns while texting or looking away and may not see a cyclist crossing in front of them. Since bikes have very little protection compared to cars, these crashes can cause serious injuries or worse.
What Cyclists and Drivers Can Do to Stay Safe While Riding
Preventing accidents starts with awareness and responsibility from everyone on the road. Here is what cyclists and drivers can do:
For Drivers
- Put your phone away and avoid multitasking.
- Stay alert in areas where bikes are common.
- Check your surroundings before opening the door in parked areas or changing lanes.
- Make a point of double-checking mirrors and blind spots before turning or changing lanes.
- Slow down and even completely stop near intersections and always look for cyclists.
For Cyclists
- Wear very bright or reflective clothing so it is easier to be seen.
- Use front and rear lights when riding in low-light or dimly lit areas. To be safe, use lights even during the day.
- Ride in the direction of the traffic and obey all signs and signals.
- Use your hands to gesture when you are turning or changing direction. Scan your surroundings to make sure it is safe before proceeding.
- Try to make eye contact with drivers when crossing intersections.
- Avoid cycling under the influence.
If both drivers and cyclists take safety seriously, it will be easier to prevent accidents and protect lives.
Conclusion
Distracted driving is a serious threat to everyone on the road, but cyclists are especially vulnerable. A single moment of not paying attention behind the wheel can lead to life-changing injuries. By staying alert and respecting one another, drivers and cyclists can share the road more safely. It only takes a little extra care to make a big difference and enhance safety on Arkansas roads.