Norfolk, VA Cycling Accident Injury Lawyers Report – Helmet Safety is Highlighted During National Bike Safety Month

Bicyclists are not killed as often as motorcyclists on the streets of Norfolk, Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, VA.

But they are, nevertheless, vulnerable to other road users who often seem to have a blind spot to cyclists.

Take, for instance, the accident that claimed the life of Paul Marqueeant, 49 on Tidewater Drive in Norfolk. The driver in this deadly accident was charged with a DUI after the cyclist was killed.

As experienced Norfolk, VA cycling injury accident lawyers, we are pleased to see the rights of cyclists represented during National Bike Safety Month in May.

The organization points out every day, an average of 140 bicyclists are injured or killed in traffic crashes in the United States.

As millions of Americans get on their bikes, AAA and NHTSA have partnered to remind parents and caregivers to set positive examples that encourage children and teens to ride safely. They are stressing the importance of safety helmets on bikes.

“When worn properly, helmets are up to 85 percent effective in protecting the head and brain in the event of a crash. With helmet use among bicyclists between 20-25 percent, we have an opportunity to reduce injuries and deaths by encouraging more riders to do the same,” said Jim Lardear, Director of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic.

“Children look to parents for guidance, so we want kids to see mom and dad wearing a helmet, and to follow their lead.”

Parents and caregivers are being urged to emphasize the fact that bicycle safety extends beyond early childhood.

“Even the most experienced riders can crash or fall while riding a bike,” said Lardear. According to NHTSA, among children, 10-to-14-year-old males have the highest rate of injuries and fatalities.

Our Virginia Beach cycling accident injury attorneys hope riders heed the message. In 2011 we reported on a spate of accidents involving cyclists in the city.

For information on bicycle safety, please visit SharetheRoad.AAA.com and NHTSA.gov/Bicycles