Bicycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common causes are:

• Driver negligence: Drivers who fail to yield, run red lights, make improper turns, or text while driving can cause serious harm to cyclists. Changes in traffic patterns due to construction can catch a driver off-guard and lead to an accident.
• Distracted or impaired cycling: Cyclists who are not paying attention to their surroundings, or who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, can also increase the risk of accidents. Something as simple as wearing headphones can lead to an accident. Always Bike AWARE.
• Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, uneven pavement, or lack of bike lanes can make cycling more dangerous and difficult. Construction debris may be negligently left in the roadway leading to injury. 
• Defective or poorly maintained bicycles: Always check the function of your brakes, tires, chains, and other components before jumping in the saddle. Malfunctions can cause accidents and lead to serious injury or death.
• Animals: Off-leash dogs would love to catch a cyclist. Know your planned route and be on the lookout for domesticated and wild animals. According to the University of Florida, Alligators can run up to 9 miles per hour on land. Don’t let yourself be a meal-on-wheels.

The injuries that result from bicycle accidents can range from minor scrapes and bruises to severe and life-threatening conditions, such as:

• Head and brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are one of the most serious and common injuries that cyclists suffer, especially if they are not wearing a helmet. TBI can cause cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes, or even death.
• Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries can occur when the cyclist’s neck or back is twisted, compressed, or severed by the impact of the accident. Spinal cord injuries can cause paralysis, loss of sensation, or chronic pain.
• Broken bones and fractures: Cyclists can break or fracture their bones in various parts of their body, such as their arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis. Broken bones and fractures can require surgery, casts, or physical therapy to heal.
• Lacerations and abrasions: Cyclists can suffer cuts and scrapes from the pavement, glass, or metal that can cause bleeding, infection, or scarring.
• Internal injuries: Cyclists can also sustain damage to their internal organs, such as their lungs, liver, kidneys, or spleen, from the blunt force trauma of the accident. Internal injuries can cause internal bleeding, organ failure, or death.