Bicyclists are at substantial risk of harm whenever they get into an accident with a motor vehicle. Unfortunately, careless drivers can engage in risky behaviors that can substantially increase the risk of an auto accident. Here are five dangerous behaviors that motorists engage in that can lead to bike accidents:


  • Speeding
      • One of the most common issues seen in auto accidents of all kinds, including bike accidents, is speeding. As a general rule, the faster a motorist is going, the harder it is for them to avoid a potential accident, and the more likely the accident will result in severe injuries or deaths. This is especially true in the case of accidents with bicyclists, who are less protected against the impact of an accident than other drivers.
  • Failure to yield the right of way
      • Generally speaking, bicyclists and pedestrians have the right of way at intersections and crosswalks. However, not every driver respects the right of way, and will charge through intersections and crosswalks without checking to see if someone else is trying to cross the street. This kind of reckless driving can easily result in a serious accident.
  • Driving at night
      • While people do not always have the option to avoid driving at night, that does not make it any less dangerous. The lack of visibility means that people are less likely to see bicyclists on the side of the road, and are more likely to accidentally crash into them. Moreover, people are often more tired later in the day, increasing the risks of them being fatigued and falling asleep behind the wheel, potentially causing bike accidents.
  • Distracted driving
      • Cell phones are extremely useful devices, but they can also become dangerous distractions to anyone who should be focused on driving. Likewise, some people try to multitask and eat, drink, brush their hair, put on makeup, or otherwise perform other activities behind the wheel. This can make it much more likely that drivers will get into bike accidents.
  • Drunk driving
    • It is illegal to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, but that does not mean it does not happen. Drunk drivers can be incredibly dangerous, due to their poor judgment, lack of motor control, and delayed reflexes. This makes them much more likely to cause bike accidents compared to sober drivers.

If you or someone you love has been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you should contact the Tennessee personal injury lawyers at the Keith Williams Law Group. With convenient offices located in Nashville and Lebanon, our lawyers will work with you to create a litigation strategy that protects your legal rights and serves your personal needs. For more information or a free consultation, please contact us at 615-444-2900 or visit our contact page.