Motorists have a duty of care toward everyone on the roads, and that duty extends to cyclists. Unfortunately, many car and truck drivers do not observe that duty. While responsible motorists almost always watch for other cars or trucks, many fail to check for bicycles. The fact that bikes have lower profiles and are harder to see should not be a valid excuse for striking a cyclist. Drivers should check their blind spots and be particularly alert near schools, parks, playgrounds, and bike paths.
Sharing the road with bicyclists in Tallahassee should be something that all motorists do. However, if a negligent or reckless driver caused you injuries in an accident, you need to understand your rights. You might be eligible to pursue a claim for compensation. Our well-versed local bike crash attorneys could get to know you and make sure you fully understand what legal options are available to you.
Why Cyclists Are in More Danger When Sharing the Road With Motorists
Bicyclists are safest when they can ride off-road, on bike paths where there are no motor vehicles, or in dedicated bike lanes. When Tallahassee cyclists need to share the roads with cars, they put themselves at increased risk of injuries. Cyclists lack the protection that people in enclosed vehicles have. They do not have a car’s steel frame or airbags to shield their bodies from the impact of a collision. Bicyclists also do not have seat belts to hold them in place. An accident or even an impending accident could cause a cyclist to lose their balance and fall onto the road. At most, cyclists have the protection of a safety helmet. However, helmets cannot protect against all injuries, even all head injuries.
If you were in an accident with a motor vehicle while riding your bike, you could be managing severe injuries. Our legal team wants to help you obtain a financial damages award or settlement, which could allow you to access the best possible care.
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Reasons Accidents Occur When Cars Share Roads With Bikes
Tallahassee motorists should share the roads, drive responsibly, and look out for all types of vehicles, including bikes. Accidents can occur when motorists fail to observe their duty of care towards bicyclists.
Tailgating
Drivers should never tailgate cyclists. They should always maintain safe distances between themselves and bikes.
Passing
Drivers should try to avoid cutting off cyclists. They should make sure they leave enough room when passing a bicycle. When motorists try to pass other vehicles, they should also ensure they have enough space between themselves and other cars. If they drive too closely to a bike to pass the car in front of them, they risk running the cyclist off the road or making them fall from their bike.
Opening Doors
Motorists and passengers should check for approaching vehicles or bikes before opening their car doors to avoid hitting anything.
Backing Up
Drivers should always check their mirrors and blind spots while backing up. Although motorists do not usually back out of driveways or parking spots at fast speeds, they can still cause severe injuries if they strike a cyclist while backing up.
If you believe a car’s driver is responsible for harming you, our attorneys want to help.
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Work With a Tallahassee Attorney Who Understands How Cars Should Share the Road With Cyclists
Motorists should know the rules about sharing the road with bicyclists in Tallahassee. Unfortunately, many drivers are more interested in getting to their destinations quickly or checking their texts than in looking out for the safety of cyclists.
If an irresponsible driver harmed you while you were on your bike, our attorneys could help you. Call us to work with our legal team.
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