Bike lanes are reserved for bicyclists — not cars.
When it comes to driving, some people think might makes right. But the rules of the road are a bit more complex than that — and require us to do a bit more sharing.
This is particularly true when it comes to bicyclists. More people are biking than ever before as a way to get fit, reduce environmental impact, cut costs, or simply as a way to get to work. So how can we work towards being more conscious of bicycles on the road with us?
Bike lanes are dedicated paths that are meant to provide a safe lane of travel for cyclists. Throughout California and Arizona, bicycle lanes are becoming more common — but they are still relatively rare. In some places, bike lanes can be found almost everywhere, but in other towns and cities, they are hard to find. However, with the popularity of cycling increasing, and the ability of many Californians and Arizonans to bike nearly year-round, we can expect that the number of bike lanes to only increase in coming years.
It is important that drivers recognize that bike lanes are reserved for use only by bikes. While they tend to be clearly marked, many drivers are not familiar with bike lanes. They may inadvertently drift into them — or take advantage of them in traffic. But going into a bike lane is dangerous, and can lead to an accident. A bicyclist expects that a bike lane is reserved for their use, and might not necessarily check for cars before going into it. Depending on the laws and regulations of the state or locality, you could also be facing a fine or penalty if you veer into a bike lane.
Even if a bike lane appears empty, remember that it is reserved only for the use of bicycles. While it is part of the street, it is not for the use of cars — and except for extreme situations, you should never use the bike lane while in your car. Doing so can be incredibly dangerous, and compromises the safety of all bikers who rely on bike lanes.
If you are a bicyclist who has been hit by a car while traveling in a bike lane or while biking anywhere else, you may be entitled to seek compensation from the driver who struck you. A skilled bike accident attorney can help you get the money that you deserve for your injuries, including lost wages, pain and suffering, medical treatment, property damages, and more.
At the Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, our attorneys represent victims who have been hurt in accidents, including those who have been injured while riding their bikes. We offer free initial consultations, where we take the time to explain your legal rights and your options for pursuing a case against the responsible party or parties. For all of our clients, we never charge a fee unless we get money for you. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment at 800-333-0000 or info@larryhparker.com.
