The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker has handled innumerable cases of auto accidents involving bicyclists. While many bicycle accidents are caused by drivers failing to properly notice the bicyclists, many accidents are also caused by bicyclists’ failure to follow the rules of the road. This writer was reminded of that fact this morning after nearly watching a bicyclist get run over today running a red light at a busy intersection.
In this particular scenario, had a driver hit the bicyclist running the red light, the bicyclist would be held liable for the accident. Not only would the cyclist have been seriously injured, she would have been financially responsible for repairs to the vehicle that hit her, as well as any other injuries that may have occurred as a result of the hypothetical accident.
The California DMV makes the law absolutely clear. “Bicycle riders on public roads have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists, and are subject to the same rules and regulations.” Bicycle safety is the responsibility of both drivers and bicyclists. Here are some safety tips for both parties from the DMV and some more safety tips from the California Highway Patrol.
The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker would like to remind drivers to treat bicyclists as they would other vehicles on the road. And we would like to remind bicyclists that you are another vehicle on the road. Please, wear a helmet, ride with traffic, and obey all stop signals. Trust us when we say it is for your own safety. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, contact us today for a free consultation at (800) 333-0000.
