The glorious weather in Ft. Lauderdale can make it tempting to use a bicycle as a primary means of transportation much of the time. The traffic, however, can make that proposition dangerous. If you take some tips from an experienced bicycle accident lawyer, you can help avoid a potentially deadly collision. Be aware of these five causes of bicycle accidents in our area and take precautions.
Bicycle Danger Points
Bicyclists can be in danger at any time because they are balancing on two wheels with little protection from hazards. However, there are certain situations on the road that are especially perilous. Motorists and bicyclists need to take particular care in these five situations:
- Passing a bicycle – Motorists need to allow adequate space. When a car hits a bicyclist’s rear tire, the bike can flip, sending the cyclist onto the moving car. If a car strikes the bike on the side, it could force the cyclist off the road or into oncoming traffic.
- Turning right – A bicycle accident lawyer often sees situations where a driver either does not notice a bicycle next to the vehicle or where the driver speeds up to execute a turn ahead of the bicycle. All too often, the motorist ends up cutting off the cyclist, resulting in a collision.
- Turning left – Motorists should watch for bicycles in the oncoming lanes as well as their own lane. When a driver hits a bicyclist during a left turn, they often hit the rider head-on, resulting in serious injuries.
- Pulling out – Motorists must watch for bicycles when backing out or pulling into traffic. These sudden motions do not allow bicyclists time to stop and avoid a collision.
- Opening doors – When someone opens a car door into a bicyclist’s path, the cyclist can either collide with the door or take sudden evasive action that could put them in the path of oncoming traffic.
Bicyclists Have Obligations Too
While bicyclists often receive more serious injuries in an accident with a motorized vehicle, that does not mean that the driver is always the one at fault. Bicyclists have obligations too, and when they fail to share the road responsibly, they may be held liable for causing a car accident or pedestrian accident.
For instance, failing to stay toward the side of the road or to grant a driver the appropriate right-of-way could lead to an accident. If an injured cyclist bears some of the blame, but a motorist is also at fault, a bicycle accident lawyer in Ft. Lauderdale could help the injured bicyclist seek a reduced amount of damages under the state’s comparative fault rules.
Work with a Dedicated Ft. Lauderdale Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Even when you take the best precautions, you could still find yourself in an accident involving a bicycle and other vehicles. It is important to be aware of your rights and take appropriate steps to protect yourself and your future.
A dedicated bicycle accident lawyer could evaluate your situation and help explore your recovery options. To get started with a free consultation, call 954-784-6310 or contact us online now.