Cycling is as much a hobby as it is a lifestyle, and many people rely on their bikes as an economical, alternative mode of transportation. If you are a cyclist, you know the unmatched feeling of riding on the open road. You also know that you have just as much right to that road as all motor vehicles.
Unfortunately, crashes between a bike and a car happen when drivers do not pay attention. Since a car is so much bigger than a bicycle, the bike may take most of the impact. If you have been hit by a car while on your bike, talk about your case with a Springfield bicycle accident lawyer from Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. Our personal injury attorneys have decades of experience helping injured victims understand their legal options and decide which one could be their best path forward.
Cyclists have responsibilities while riding, but due to their smaller size, bikes may often surprise drivers when they suddenly enter the driver’s field of vision. One of the most common causes of bike and car crashes is the driver’s lack of attention. Bikes are allowed to ride on the right-hand side of the road, which is on the opposite side of the car driver. This means that the driver must be certain that the road is clear when they make a right turn or pull over.
Additionally, under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 § 14, the driver and any passengers inside the vehicle are responsible for checking for oncoming bikes before opening their doors. Speeding, distractions, and driving under the influence of alcohol are also causes of bike crashes.
If you believe that your bicycle wreck was caused by another person’s reckless actions, get in touch with one of our Springfield lawyers for a case evaluation.
Unfortunately, the physics involved in bike and car collisions overwhelmingly favors the vehicle. Due to the substantial size and weight difference, the car is likely to emerge unscathed while the bike takes the majority of the impact. In addition, bikes do not have a protective frame, meaning the rider is likely to fall off or be thrown off the bike in a collision.
The lack of protection could result in serious injuries to the rider, even in slow-speed collisions. Broken bones, concussions, back injuries, spinal cord injuries, and road rash are all common injuries for riders after an accident and could be serious enough to prevent a rider from getting back on their bike for weeks or months. In severe cases, accidents may even result in death.
For avid cyclists, this could be even more devastating than the injuries themselves. This is why Springfield bike riders who have been hurt in a collision with a car should talk to an attorney. A devoted lawyer could provide advice and support during this difficult time.
Bikes are considered vehicles on the road, so cyclists must follow many of the same basic traffic rules as cars. This includes:
However, there are some rules that apply only to bikes. For example, riders may not hold on to a moving vehicle, and only two bikes may ride side by side on a roadway. Helmets are only required for riders under the age of 16, but a helmet provides important head protection in case of an accident or fall.
Knowing the rights and obligations for bikers is important because, much like in a car crash, the rider’s responsibilities could affect a claim for recovery. The state has adopted the principle of contributory negligence, meaning that any recovery amount could be reduced by the proportion that the rider is responsible for causing the accident.
An attorney experienced with handling bike collision cases in Springfield could provide advice and guidance to injured riders. Understanding all available legal options is a vital step on the path to recovery.
If you have been hurt while riding your bike, you may be able to recover financial compensation for your medical bills and treatment. A Springfield bicycle accident lawyer from Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. could help you navigate through this process.
This is understandably a difficult time, and our team is here to support you. Call us today, and tell us about your situation.
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