How to Avoid a Bicycle Accident
Follow the “rules of the road”. These are your state’s traffic laws and regulations, and they apply to bicyclists as well as motorists.
- Always signal properly so nearby drivers know what you are doing and where you are going. To signal a right turn, extend your right hand and arm in a horizontal position straight and level with your shoulder beyond the right side of your bike. To signal a left turn, extend your arm straight and level to the left side of your bike.
- Always wear a helmet when riding your bicycle. Make sure your helmet is in good condition and fits securely on your head. The helmet should be level and the straps should fit snuggly.
- Always stay visible by wearing light colored or luminescent clothing as well as jackets and vests with reflective tape. Use reflective tape and lights on your bicycle.
- Check your equipment before you ride to ensure your bicycle is in good and safe condition. Make sure your handle bars and seat are secure and check your brakes.
Every state, including North Carolina, has laws and regulations governing the operation of bicycles. These laws and regulations are designed to ensure that bicyclists follow the same “rules of the road” as motor vehicle operators. By following the traffic regulations applicable to motor vehicles as well as those specific to bicycles, the cyclist makes it less likely a motor vehicle will misunderstand what he is doing and where he is going. Such misunderstandings cause accidents.
Motorists must exercise reasonable care in the operation of their vehicles. They have a duty to keep a reasonable lookout for vehicles, persons and conditions which would affect their driving – and this includes bicyclists. If you are a bicyclist who has been involved in an accident with a negligent motorist, the lawyers at Hendren and Malone can evaluate your claim, explain your legal rights, and advise how you can obtain adequate compensation for pain, suffering, medical bills, lost wages and other damages.
