Bicycle accidents are a common occurrence in Salisbury and across Wicomico County.  Bicycling is becoming more popular in the region. Go to the Bike-SBY site to learn about current efforts to improve biking safety in the region.

Despite safety improvements, bicycle accidents are common in Salisbury

According to Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, in 2012, 726 lost their lives in bicycle/motor vehicle crashes nationally, just under two people every day of the year in the U.S. The death rate from bicycle crashes is high due to the relative lack of protection bicyclists have in an impact with a motor vehicle.

Bicycling laws in Salisbury

Salisbury traffic-safety laws are designed to allow bicyclists to share the road safely with motor vehicles in an increasingly crowded space.

According to the State of Maryland Department of Motor Vehicles:

When bicycles are ridden with other traffic, cyclists must obey the same rules and regulations as motor vehicles.

At intersections, motorists must yield to cyclists as they would for other vehicles and pedestrians.

When passing a cyclist, motorists must move into an adjacent lane to the left if possible. If not, the motorist must pass with at least 3 feet of clearance.

Motorists must yield the right-of-way to a cyclist on a bicycle path or in a bike lane.

Motorists may not stop, park or drive on a designated bicycle path or lane unless they are entering or leaving an alley or driveway, performing official duties, directed by a police officer, or in an emergency situation.

A cyclist is required to ride on the right side of the roadway.

A bicycle must be equipped with a white lamp in the front, visible from at least 500 feet.

Get information on bike crashes from the Salisbury Police Department

The Salisbury Police Department may be able to provide information on accidents that occur in the city. Other nearby law enforcement includes the Delmar Police Department, the Fruitland Police Department, the Maryland State Police, the Salisbury University Police, and the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office.

The Maryland Department of Transportation provides information on traffic laws and licensing and insurance requirements.

Salisbury bicycle crashes have common causes and deadly outcomes

While helmets and proper reflective gear make bicycling safer, riding a bicycle is riskier than driving a car. Maintaining control is more difficult on two wheels, and when collisions happen, bicyclists are at greater risk of serious injury or death because they don't have an enclosed vehicle for protection.

Common causes of bicycle crashes include:

• Motorist turning across path of cyclist;
• Cyclist riding into the path of a motor vehicle;
• Cyclist turning right from a major road and from a minor road;
• Child cyclist playing or riding too fast.

When someone is injured in a Salisbury bike crash, what needs to happen next?

In an injury accident, it is crucial to get appropriate medical treatment, regardless of the financial cost.

The major hospitals in the area include:

Peninsula Regional Medical Center;

Rowan Medical Center.

As soon as possible, an injured person should contact their insurance company to find out medical treatment is covered under their insurance policy.

Personal injury lawyers offer a no-cost claim evaluation to help you.

Since there is no cost to speak with a lawyer, it is a good idea to learn more about your potential personal injury claim. Accident Data Center can help you by connecting you with our network of experienced injury lawyers who can provide you with information about your rights and options. Learn more here about the value of a no-cost legal claim evaluation.