Each year, more than 500,000 people in the US are treated in emergency departments…as a result of a bike related injury (CDC). Bicycle accident injuries can be severe and the issues of negligence even more complex. As a cyclist it is imperative to know where liability and fault lies to protect yourself in case of an accident.
In a cyclist accident it often appears that the cyclist is the victim. They tend to suffer more intense injuries and express more vulnerability than any individuals that were in the automobile. However, there are many factors that come into play in determining which party is at fault. If the cyclist is found to have been negligent than their grounds for compensation is minimal or even non-existent. This can be financially damaging if the cyclist is left to cover not only their own medical costs but the costs of all other damages as well.
As a cyclist, it is important to learn the basic rules of liability and who is responsible for an accident. If the cyclist does not follow road rules or keep a proper lookout, they can be found at fault. Moreover, even if the cyclist does follow the rules of the road and is hit by a driver, driver’s are often vary wary of taking blame and may want to place it all on the cyclist, so the more you know the legal rules of the road, the better.
For cyclists:
- Protect yourself by optimizing visibility, of both yourself and your view ((with front and rear lamps, reflective clothing, and brightly colored clothing)
- Learn the rules of the road
- Be on the lookout constantly
- Ride on the defense
- Wear a helmet
- And it you are ever in an accident, contact a lawyer that has experience with personal injury cases of this type.
Need legal guidance you can trust? Click here to Contact Flesch & Beck Law, Denver’s personal injury attorneys, today.
