Bicycle Injury Accidents
Each day, U.S. roadways are filled with passenger vehicles, commercial transport trucks, public transportation vehicles, and other motorized forms of transportation. Although the roadways were designed to handle heavy automotive traffic, it is important to remember that bicycles are considered to be vehicles as well, and should be afforded the rights given to all vehicles, motorized or not. Unfortunately, bicyclists often report injuries due to collisions with cars and trucks, and in the event of an accident, may be able to sue for damages.
Bicyclists riding on the road should follow the same rules as drivers of cars, trucks, and motorcycles. This means that they must operate their bike on the correct side of the road, should not use pedestrian walkways like sidewalks and bridges, and should properly follow the flow of traffic. Hand-signals should be used to warn others on the road of intended directional turns, and bicyclists are required to stop at all stop signs and traffic lights.
Drivers in motorized vehicles should be aware of bicyclists on the road and should give them plenty of room to ride their bicycle. Although bikes do not have the same speed as cars, it is important to allow the cyclist to ride in the lane or to the side without tailing or following too closely. When passing a cyclist, be sure to give him or her enough room to ride and pass quickly in order to avoid running the person off of the road. Be sure to watch your speed when driving and be aware of that cyclists may be sharing the roadways with you.
There are commonly recognized safety features that cyclists should adopt to help prevent accidents. Cyclists should wear bright colors and have reflective material on when riding, especially at night. It is recommended that bikes have reflective gear attached and maybe even lights to help with visibility, both for the riders and others on the road. Safety gear like helmets are often required by law, but where they are not, riders should consider wearing them for extra protection.
If a cyclist suffers injury due to reckless or negligent behavior on the part of a motorist, he or she may be eligible to pursue legal action. Personal injury lawsuits often seek compensation for medical expenses, pain, suffering, and punitive damages against the person at fault. If you would like to know more about bicycle accidents and personal injury, visit the website of the Atlanta personal injury lawyers of Webb, Lindsey, Wade, Taylor & Thompson, LLC.