Across the state, people of various ages ride bicycles on a regular basis. From kids who enjoy biking with their friends to adults who bike to work or go cycling as a form of exercise, bicyclists take to the road for many reasons. However, cyclists are especially vulnerable in the event of a collision with a vehicle, and these accidents leave a significant number of people seriously hurt each year. In fact, many victims of these accidents suffer brain injuries.
It is important for cyclists to look at data on brain injuries due to bike accidents and understand the short-term and long-term consequences of this serious problem.
Statistics on brain injuries and bike accidents
According to the Kentucky Legislature, bike accidents are the fourth most common cause of brain injuries in this state. Moreover, brain injuries result in more deaths and disabilities in young kids than any other risk factor. On an annual basis, nearly 40,000 people receive emergency treatment or become hospitalized due to traumatic brain injuries in Kentucky alone.
The consequences of brain injuries due to bike accidents
When a cyclist hits his or her head during an accident, they may not even realize they suffered an injury. In some instances, the full extent of the problem does not become clear until later on. Brain injuries can cause various hardships that affect a victim’s personal relationships, career and quality of life. Sometimes, victims become disabled and lose the ability to live on their own.
Unfortunately, reckless drivers who hit bicyclists are responsible for many of these brain injuries.