Individuals who have been involved in bicycle or pedestrian accidents have rights. If you have been injured as a result of a bicycle or pedestrian accident, you may be able to obtain financial compensation to cover medical costs, lost wages stemming from an absence from work, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Bicycles are considered vehicles under Pennsylvania law. As such, every person riding a bicycle is generally legally entitled to all of the rights afforded to a driver of any other vehicle on the road.
Pedestrians are legally entitled to use various sections of public road, such as crosswalks, and in many cases, pedestrians and bicyclists have the right of way. With offices in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, the pedestrian and bicycle accident attorneys at the Locks Law Firm can review your case and determine who was at fault in your accident. Contact one of our personal injury attorneys today to schedule a free, confidential consultation and case evaluation.
Because bicycles are considered vehicles under Pennsylvania law, cyclists are generally entitled to all of the rights that apply to car drivers. However, cyclists face unique risks as they have little protection against the vehicles with which they share the road. A collision between a car and a bicycle can result in catastrophic injury or wrongful death to the bicyclist. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident as a result of a collision with another vehicle or because of unsafe road conditions, our lawyers, serving New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania can assist you. Our bicycle accident attorneys can help you obtain just and fair financial compensation. As a bicyclist, you have rights and road privileges. You may be able to hold the liable parties responsible if you have been injured or a loved one has suffered a wrongful death because of the negligent and reckless actions of a motor vehicle operator.
Where may a cyclist ride?
As a cyclist, you are legally entitled to ride on any road that is not a freeway. Cyclists are entitled to ride in the right lane of traffic, or they may ride toward the right hand curb or in the shoulder if there is one. A cyclist is allowed to ride in the left hand lane of traffic on a one-way road with two or more marked lanes of traffic. Bicycle riders are legally entitled to leave the right hand lane of traffic in order to pass a slower moving vehicle, turn left, or otherwise continue on an intended route.
NHTSA reports that in 2013, there were 48,000 bicyclists injured in traffic accidents, and 773 deaths. Bicycle accidents are more common than some people realize. Some of the more common causes of bicycle accidents, all of which are an illegal offense against the cyclist, include:
Motor vehicle drivers making a turn into the path of a bicyclist
Motor vehicle drivers entering into the path of a bicyclist from a hidden driveway or parking spot
Drivers failing to yield at a crosswalk or running a red light
Indifference or inattention by a motor vehicle operator to the presence of bicyclists
A failure to look in both directions upon coming to a stop sign and failing to yield the right of way to a cyclist
A motor vehicle operator driving under the influence of alcohol or mind-altering substances
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, contact the attorneys of the Locks Law Firm today to schedule a free, confidential consultation and case evaluation. Our experienced bicycle accident attorneys have the experience and drive necessary to help you achieve a satisfactory resolution to your case. Additionally, we have a number of experienced riders on our staff who understand the issues involving bicycle safety and accidents.
To schedule a free consultation with one of our New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania-based pedestrian and bicycle accident attorneys, contact the Locks Law Firm today. Our attorneys can help maximize your compensation with devoted and aggressive representation.
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