During the summer months, daily life is often challenging in certain parts of the country as a result of extreme heat. Many people have a harder time taking care of their responsibilities and getting through the day. Aside from problems related to working, some people are more likely to find themselves involved in a traffic accident. Sadly, these crashes sometimes involve bicyclists, who are particularly vulnerable, and the outcomes are often devastating.
Many people enjoy riding their bicycle in the summer. However, it is imperative to understand the threats you face and carefully examine your legal options if you are struck by a vehicle on the road.
Heat and drowsy drivers
Drivers who suffer from heat exhaustion often become drowsy and this affects their ability to focus on the road. They are more likely to collide with other vehicles as well as bicyclists, especially since some have a harder time noticing bicyclists and pedestrians. Some drivers are less attentive when it is very hot out and they fail to yield or come to a stop when necessary. Moreover, some do not notice a bicyclist’s presence alongside the road.
Riding a bike on extremely hot days
It is also important for bicyclists to understand the risks associated with riding a bike in very hot weather. Bicyclists sometimes have a harder time avoiding erratic drivers when they are overheated. For example, if a driver abruptly swerves into a bicyclist’s path, a bicyclist will likely have more difficulty avoiding the vehicle if they are struggling with fatigue due to high temperatures.
Read through our website to read more about the consequences of bicycle accident injuries.