Determining Liability in Cycling Accident Cases

People engage in cycling for different reasons, including exercise, sport, and transportation. Unfortunately, sharing the road with car drivers, truckers, and motorcyclists can be dangerous to a bicyclist. A vehicle owner flinging open a car door or tailgating at speed are some examples that may lead to an accident for a cyclist.

The impact of such accidents can be devastating since cyclists have lesser protection compared to vehicle occupants. Therefore, drivers have a higher standard of care to exercise towards cyclists. However, if a motorist breaches their duty of care and you sustain injuries, discuss with experienced bicycle accident lawyers Lancaster, PA.

Pennsylvania's Bicycle Laws Under Pennsylvania Bicyclists laws, bicyclists have the same rights and subject to all duties applicable to a vehicle driver. Additionally, the HB 170 law, also known as the safe passing law, provides the following protection to bikers.

● Cars must give bikes a minimum of 4-feet of clearance when driving at a prudent reduced speed.

● Bicyclists should ride with reasonably safe and appropriate speeds.

● Motorists turning their vehicles can not interfere with a bicycle proceeding straight.

● Bicycles must run on the right-hand lane or as close to the right-hand edge of the roadway.

Proving Liability Like every personal injury case, a plaintiff must prove that the defendant was liable before getting damages. Since the law requires cyclists to drive on the right side of the road, parked vehicles must be careful before opening doors. If an accident results from a negligent door opening, the motorist will be liable for damages.

Likewise, a driver who causes an accident while disobeying the bicycle laws will have to pay benefits. For instance, a motorist behind a bicycle has to wait for a safe space before overtaking. Also, as long as the cyclist is on the right side of the road, he has no obligation to stop or move out of the vehicle's way. Any resulting accident will be the driver's fault.

When the Cyclist is at Fault If the cyclist isn't driving in the approved way, he must keep up with other lanes' traffic. Otherwise, if an accident occurs, he may not be able to recover damages. Other scenarios where a cyclist may be liable include ignoring traffic signals and driving in the opposite direction.

However, depending on the situation, negligent cyclists may still recover some damages in comparative negligence. Lancaster Bicycle Accident Attorneys can help you if you share fault in a cycling accident.

Conclusion Bicycles share the same rights on the road as other vehicles. However, when a driver fails to share the road, you have a right to sue for your injuries. Contact an experienced lawyer at Georgelis Injury Law Firm to discuss your legal options. We are a knowledgeable bicycle, car, motorcycle, and commercial vehicle accident attorneys Lancaster PA.