Cycling is a wonderful way to get around. It’s fun, environmentally friendly, and great for your cardiovascular system. But cyclists face unique challenges that aren’t always appreciated by people who operate motor vehicles.
Cyclists have all the same rights and responsibilities as car and truck drivers, but accidents are much more life-threatening for cyclists. Unfortunately, drivers don’t always watch out for cyclists and give them the respect they deserve.
Safe Cycling
When riding your bike, try to be as noticeable as possible. Wear visible clothes and helmets and make sure your bike is equipped with a light in front and a red reflector in the back as required in Texas.
Try to be as predictable as possible when traveling along roadways, streets, bike paths, and routes and areas designated for bicycles. The state of Texas does not forbid bicycles from riding on the sidewalk, but it may not be allowed by some local jurisdictions. When a cyclist is riding on the sidewalk, you are subject to the same rules as pedestrians.
To stay safe, cyclists will want to do the following:
- Obey all traffic laws.
- Never dart out into traffic.
- Never weave between cars.
- Stay on the right side of the road.
- Travel in the same direction as traffic.
- Use proper hand signals when turning.
- Stay in available bike lanes except when making left turn.
- Keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.
- Always yield to pedestrians, even when they don’t have the right of way.
You Have the Same Rights as Motor Vehicles
Bicyclists have the same rights as motorists, but for everyone on the road, crash avoidance should be your number one goal. Even when you have the right of way, ride defensively. Don’t assume drivers are going to notice you and respect your rights. This isn’t fair, but it’s the best way to stay safe.
Bicycle lanes are designed to keep riders safe. Motorists must respect that the bike lane is your space. Car and truck drivers are expected to use special caution around bicycles lanes, especially when making a right-hand turn. It is not permissible to knowingly obstructing a bike lane, and local governments must make every effort to keep them clear.
When a bicycle rider is injured in an accident caused by a negligent car or truck driver, you have the right to hire a Dallas bicycle accident attorney who will fight to get you the compensation you deserve to cover the costs of your injuries and other expenses caused by the accident.
Everyone Must Follow the Rules
Motorists and cyclists are safest when everyone follows the rules. Bicycles and motor vehicles are expected to yield in these situations:
- At red lights, stop signs, and yield signs
- At an uncontrolled intersection if a vehicle is already there
- To the through road vehicle at a T-shaped intersection
- At unpaved roads that cross a paved road
- Returning to the road from a parked position
- When two vehicles approach an intersection with a stop sign, yield to the driver on the right.
We Focus on Severe Injury Cases in Dallas
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a bicycle accident in Dallas, the insurance companies are not on your side. In fact, there’s no good reason to speak with an insurance company before you have met with a Dallas personal injury lawyer. Whatever you do, don’t ever admit fault when talking to an insurance agent.
Dallas Attorney Marc Lenahan served as the National Crime Victim Bar Association’s President-Elect. The personal injury attorneys at The Lenahan Law Firm know how to take on the big insurance companies and win. Call us at (214) 295-1008 to receive the best legal representation.