As bicycling continues to grow in popularity as a sport, a family-friend activity, and transportation, it is no surprise that the costs of medical care stemming from bike accidents continue to increase. Although some cities have established separate bike paths and lanes, even these and other safety measures cannot always prevent accidents that occur when drivers strike bicyclists. The injuries to bicyclists often are more severe, simply because there is nothing to prevent the impact of the vehicle against their bodies. Furthermore, as a growing proportion of these accidents occur on streets, where vehicles likely are traveling at higher speeds, the injuries to the bicyclists often are much more severe.

According to one study performed by U.C. San Francisco, medical costs arising from bicycle accidents are growing at an annual rate of approximately $789 million. Statistics show that over 17 years, medical expenses for bicycle injuries to adults topped $237 billion, with the number of hospital admissions due to bike crashes increasing 120%. For example, in 2013, these medical expenses, which came from 3.8 million non-fatal injuries and about 9,800 deaths, costs more than $24.4 billion. This figure is nearly double the medical and other costs of all occupational illnesses during the same timeframe.

Not surprisingly, other annual costs attributable to bike crashes also are rapidly increasing. In addition to medical expenses, these costs include work losses and losses of quality of life. The total amount of these bike accident-related costs increased by 137% for non-fatal injuries and 23% for fatal injuries. The percentage of people aged 45 and older sustaining injuries in bike crashes more than doubled, reaching almost 54% of the total victims in 2013.

Bonnici Law Group has the experience and knowledge that you need when you are seeking compensation following injuries sustained in a bicycle accident. We know how to help you create and maintain a strong claim for compensation based on the evidence and obtain the best outcome possible in your case. Do not hesitate to contact Bonnici Law Group at 858-261-5454 or help@bonnicilawgroup.com.