Bike-sharing, a transportation program that allows individuals to use community bicycles and return them to specified areas, is becoming popular in cities throughout the country. This innovative and environmentally-friendly mode of transport is also considered extremely safe. Sadly, however, a fatality was recently reported.
The crash occurred on Friday, July 1 in Chicago when 25-year-old Virginia Murray rode her bicycle alongside a flatbed truck. Murray was struck and killed as both she and the trucker turned east. Although Murray was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, she later succumbed to her injuries.
This crash represents the first bike-sharing death since the program was first introduced in 2007 in Washington, DC. In fact, a report by the Mineta Transportation Institute indicates that riders of bike-share bicycles are actually less likely to be injured than privately-owned bicycles.
Why are bike-share bicycles safer?
The Mineta report and industry insiders agree that:
- Bike-share bicycles boast more additional safety features, including reflectors and bright lights.
- Bike-share bicycles are introduced in cities that generally have numerous cyclists and often boast bicycle lanes, signals for cyclists, and a growing awareness by drivers of cyclists and their rights.
- Bike-share bicycles are heavy and slower than privately-owned bicycles.
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What should I do if I am in a bike-sharing crash?
First, call 911. Always report the incident to the police, no matter how small. Next, contact the phone number associated with the bike-share program. Remember that you must notify them of the accident and you are still responsible for returning the bicycle. If you are injured, even if you believe your injuries are minor, visit the emergency room or your physician. Often what initially appears to be just a few scrapes and scratches may actually become more painful and materialize as fractures, sprains, and contusions after the adrenaline wears off.
If you have been injured, contact our experienced bike injury attorneys right away. Our team of attorneys are all cyclists, and we understand how important it is to protect our own. We will stand by your side and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Even if you are unsure if you have a case, contact our team of bike accident attorneys for a free consultation today!
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