Death on Minnesota Roads: 2010 Bicyclists Numbers Down to Single Digits

Along with the historically low numbers for overall Minnesota highway deaths, the numbers of bicyclists saw a decrease. For bicyclists the number of riders crashes went down to 898 from 981 in 2009 and 957 in 2008. The number or injures was down to 882 in 2010 from 963 in 2009 and 942 in 2008. Deaths was in single digit at 9 which is down from 10 in 2009 and 13 2010. As with motorcycles the highest numbers of death took place in the afternoon between 4 and 5 pm.

Bicycles gin saw a much bigger problem with the failure to yield the right away for both themselves and with vehicles involved as a cause for many collisions.

Our firm has looked at a lot of these cases. A coverage question always comes up with people injured when they aren’t in a vehicle. A person, will be covered for no fault benefits under their own policy, as a resident relative in their home or if they have no coverage, by the No Fault from the car they were hit by. If there is no coverage on the car, the bills may then go to the assigned claims bureau for coverage.

Beyond No Fault , the question of liability concerning the cars actions and those of the pedestrian/bike rider will need to determined. Early investigation may be necessary to make these determinations.

When crossing the street Askacop.com makes the following suggestions:

For bike riders:

• -Always wear a helmet. Bicycle helmets can reduce head injuries by 85 percent.
• -Use hand signals to indicate which direction you want to turn.
• -Be aware and alert at all busy intersections. Make yourself known to motorists.
• -Have reflectors or lights when riding at night.
• -Pass on the left, and be ready to hit the brakes. Keep a good passing distance.
• -Be aware and leave room for motorists trying to make right-hand turns.
• -The paths in Boulder have 15 mph speed limits; follow the speed guidelines.
• -Don’t wear headphones when riding, and yield to traffic when entering roadways.

For all of you in cars

• slow down
• look out
• don’t drink and drive