Determining Liability in a Car-Bicycle Accident

Both cyclists and motor vehicle operators have responsibilities when on the road. Both are moving vehicles, so both must watch out for each other and adhere to traffic laws. When members of either party fail to do so, or when they behave recklessly, the results can be disastrous.

It can often be difficult to determine responsibility in a car-bicycle accident. Many times, both parties exhibit some form of negligent behavior that results in such a collision. If you have been involved in one of these dangerous incidents, then an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you. Contact the Las Vegas personal injury lawyers of Palmer & Associates, P.C. today at 702-888-2222.

When a Car Is to Blame

There are certain actions that motor vehicle drivers (and even passengers) can take that put unsuspecting cyclists at risk. Not only should drivers be on the watch for smaller vehicles that have a right to the road, such as bikers and motorcyclists, but they should also keep the following tips in mind:

• Check for cyclists before opening a car door
• Respect bike lanes, and check for upcoming bikes when turning right
• Give bikes adequate space when passing them
• Don’t underestimate bikers’ speeds when turning in front of them
• Don’t act aggressively toward or drive antagonistically around cyclists

By following these steps, a driver can significantly reduce his or her chances of being at fault in the event of a car-bicycle accident.

When a Bike Is to Blame

Cyclists can also be at fault in a car-bicycle accident. Even though cars are much more powerful and therefore more dangerous to bikes, they are not always to blame in the case of a collision. As a biker, you can safeguard yourself against accidents by doing the following:

• Follow traffic laws and signals, including the speed limit
• Beware when passing stopped cars – they may unexpectedly pull out or a passenger may open a roadside door
• Keep your bicycle well-maintained so that unexpected, accident-causing failures do not occur

Remember, as a cyclist, you can cause accidents as well. Follow traffic laws and use common sense when sharing the road with cars.

Contact Us

If you have been injured in a car-bicycle accident, then you may need the help of a qualified an experienced personal injury lawyer to help you determine responsibility. Contact a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer from Palmer & Associates, P.C. today at 702-888-2222 to speak with an attorney about your situation.