Navigating The Rules Of the Road On A Bicycle
Michael Babboni
Car Accidents
Riding your bicycle is can be a wonderful thing. Not only is biking healthy for your body, its healthy for the environment. More blood pumping through your heart, less exhaust and emissions pumping into the air. With such beautiful weather all year round in Florida, it’s no wonder that bicyclists can be seen all over.The Rights And The Requirements
Those who travel by bicycle have the right to the roadway as much as those who operate a motor vehicle. Using the bicycle lane is important to keep all parties safe, but if there is no bike lane, riders are encouraged to stay as far to the right side as possible. Other bicycle operator requirements in Florida include:
Adhere to the same traffic laws that motor vehicles must adhere to.
- Follow all traffic signals such as lights and signs that pertain to motor vehicles.
- Only one person allowed per seat.
- Be sure the bike is up to proper operation, such as working brakes that stop the bicycle within 25 feet on dry, clean, level asphalt.
- Use a light on your bicycle if you are riding at night, sunset to sunrise.
When riding a bicycle on a sidewalk, be sure to adhere to the same rules as a pedestrian. It is important to remember that pedestrians have the right-of-way over bicyclists. When passing a pedestrian, use an audible signal such as a bell or a verbal cue.
Following the rules can help keep the bicyclist safe while keeping motor vehicle operators and others safe at the same time. No one wants to be struck while riding, and no one wants to strike a rider. Even after following all of the proper requirements and laws, however, you might still be involved in an accident with a motor vehicle.
What To Do In An Accident
Unfortunately, nearly 60,000 bicyclists are injured in motor vehicle accidents each year, with approximately 900 who are struck fatally. There are parallel-path crashes, open car door crashes, crossing-path crashes, and rear-end collisions. Typically, the motor vehicle operator is at fault simply because they did not notice the bicyclist. If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident while riding a bicycle, the most important things you can do are:
- Get all of the information that you can from the driver, such as personal and contact information as well as insurance company documentation.
- Get contact information for all witnesses to the accident.
- Take a picture, a video, or any kind of tangible visual evidence of the scene, vehicle, your bicycle, and yourself.
The last two steps are especially important if the driver actually flees the scene.
When You Need Navigation
When it comes to bicycle motor vehicle accidents, there are many things to consider. From fault to settlements, the entire process can be tricky to navigate on your own. If you have been struck by a motor vehicle while riding your bicycle, we can help. An experienced attorney can walk you through the process and help you navigate your path if you think that you are not getting the compensation that you deserve. Let our experience work for you so you can get back on the bike and enjoy the roadway once again. Call us today.