Driver negligence is one of the most common causes for bicycle accidents and injuries. Accordingly, it is also the most common reason why most bicycle accident victims win their personal injury lawsuits. If you were recently injured in a bicycle accident, it is important to learn your rights. Start by examining the circumstances around your accident to determine if you have a valid claim or not. Talk to a seasoned personal injury lawyer who can help you determine your eligibility. If you have a valid claim, they will immediately begin working on your case, and will not collect attorney fees unless they win your settlement.
Cyclist Rights on the Road
Bicyclers have rights on the road, but not on all roads. Restricted roadways vary among towns, but generally include interstates, highways, private roads, and more. On non-restricted roads and designated biking areas, bicyclers are expected to obey all traffic and biking rules, while all drivers are obligated to respect bicyclers' rights. In the case that a cyclist is injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver, it could be grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. So long as the biker was abiding by all rules of the road, and the driver was the only negligent party, the biker should be owed compensation to cover their losses and damage, such as hospital bills, medical expenses, pain, suffering, and more .
Negligent Drivers
When a person is operating a vehicle, they have a responsibility to obey all traffic rules and laws. Driving recklessly, speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, driving underage, and driving without a license all forms of negligent driving. But there are many ways a person can be a negligent driver. Any behaviors that are distracting, reckless, or illegal are common forms of negligent driving. Below are some more.
Common negligent driving behaviors include:
- Speeding
- Intoxicated Driving
- Reckless Driving
- Talking on the Phone
- Texting
- Putting on Makeup
- Eating
- Playing to Loud Music
- Illegally Tinted Windows
- Unlicensed
- Multiple Passengers
- Rowdy Passengers
- No Head or Tail Lights
- And More
Follow Biking Rules
To protect yourself on the road from negligent drivers, be sure to always follow all rules for traffic, pedestrians, and bikers. If you bike at dusk or night, be sure to wear reflective gear. If you are biking on busy roadways or meandering roadways, be sure to always wear your helmet and other protective gear. If you are ever injured in an accident, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer right after receiving medical assistance to learn your rights to compensation.