Cycling on the streets of America – equal parts exhilarating and nerve-wracking. You get it, right? You would if you were a cyclist on these busy streets. You can call it the perfect combination of freedom and fitness.
However, while you’re busy cruising along on your bike, there’s a whole set of rights and responsibilities you need to be aware of. You must stay informed regarding these rights and responsibilities. Doing so will keep you safer, more confident, and ready to face the road head-on on your two wheels.
Whether it’s for fun, fitness, or simply commuting, as a cyclist, here are a few things you must know about your rights and responsibilities.
The Law is On Your Side
Dear cyclists, rest assured; the law is on your side. Do you feel like you with your fancy bike are the odd one out on the road? Understandable. After all, you often have to share lanes with cars and motorcycles, and we all know how merciless they can act towards cyclists. The good news though is that the law is on your side.
Here’s a fun fact: in all states across the US, cyclists are considered vehicles. That’s right; two wheels equals a vehicle on the American streets. Hence, you have just as much right to be on the road as that SUV beside you. You and your bicycle have every right to ride in traffic lanes, make turns, and cross intersections, just like any other vehicle.
Of course, as a cyclist, don’t forget to obey the laws of the traffic. They are in place to protect not just cyclists but also people in other vehicles as well as pedestrians.
Safety First, Cool Tricks Later
Preventable bicycle fatalities rose by 10 percent in 2022 and have surged by 47 percent over the past decade. The best way to avoid accidents is to prioritize your safety and respect the rules of the road.
You, as a cyclist, must always, under no circumstances, ride without both hands on your bike’s handlebars. Signaling on the road? Just let go of one hand from the bar and then signal.
Make sure you’re using hand signals to indicate turns, and always wear a helmet. Will the bicycle helmet ruin your hairstyle? Sure, but it will also make sure your head remains intact and in place if you end up in a crash.
Why You Might Need a Lawyer
Georgia State Representative Devan Seabaugh was arrested for drunk driving back in August this year. He reportedly swerved into a bike lane and collided with a cyclist. The accident took place at the intersection of Memorial Drive and Park Avenue in the Grant Park neighborhood.
Bicycle accidents can occur in the blink of an eye, often due to negligent or distracted drivers. When that happens, you may find yourself wondering what to do next, especially if you’ve sustained injuries.
In the event of a serious bike accident, you might be eligible for compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, etc. A skilled bicycle accident lawyer knows the ins and outs of these cases and can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system.
Always try to hire a local bike accident lawyer. For instance, the accident we talked about earlier involving the State Representative took place in Atlanta.
Hence, the victim will probably seek help from an Atlanta bicycle accident lawyer. Had it taken place in another part of Georgia, like Alpharetta, the victim would have hired an Alpharetta bicycle accident lawyer.
According to the Atlanta Personal Injury Law Group, local lawyers are well aware of local road and cycling laws. Hence, they are more than capable of handling bicycle accident cases with utmost care.
Bicycle accident lawyers know how to calculate the full scope of your damages, which can go far beyond just the immediate physical injuries. Hence, if you’re ever involved in a bike accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal help.
Keep Rolling, Stay Responsible
At the end of the day, cycling is an amazing way to get around, stay fit, and reduce your carbon footprint. However, cycling is also a major responsibility.
By following traffic laws, riding safely, and knowing your rights, you can enjoy the ride without worry. Stay visible, signal your intentions, and share the road. If the unexpected happens and you find yourself in a bicycle accident, remember that the law is there to protect you.
