Bicycle accidents are more common than you think. Each year, around 130,000 people are injured in bicycle accidents in the US alone. It’s important to know what to do if you’re involved in a bicycle accident.
Rules of the Road for Cyclists
Cyclists are considered vehicles operating on the road and have the same rights and responsibilities as cars. They are expected to obey all traffic signs and signals, to indicate turns and stops, to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and to keep their bicycles in good operating condition.
When sharing the road with cyclists, drivers are expected to yield to cyclists at intersections as you would for other vehicles, to not drive in designated bicycle lanes, and to pass to the left. When passing, if an adjacent lane is available, they are expected to change lanes. Otherwise, drivers should leave at least 3 feet of clearance between their cars and the cyclist.
Most drivers share the road well with cyclists, but sometimes accidents still happen. Bicycles are smaller and can disappear into blind spots. They may be less visible at night than other cars. It’s important to know what to do if a bicycle accident does happen.
The Causes of Bicycle Accidents
You should know these rules and responsibilities because this information will determine who’s at fault for the bicycle accident. Some of the most common causes of accidents involving cyclists and motorists include:
- Distracted driving
- Not giving cyclists enough room
- Driving above the speed limit
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Failure to yield
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Turning without looking first
While cyclists and drivers generally have the same rights and responsibilities on the road, accidents involving cyclists can be much more serious, because the cyclist involved is much less protected, and more likely to be injured than a motorist. These injuries may also be more severe than those that a motorist receives.
What Should I Do If I Am Hit By a Car On My Bike?
If you’re involved in an accident while riding a bicycle, there are a few steps to take right away, or as soon as you are able to. Here’s what to do after a bicycle accident:
- Call 911. 911 will send first responders and police to the site of the accident. Even if you do not believe you are injured, you’ll want to have the police respond. The police will file a report about the accident that may be important if you need to file a claim as a result of injuries suffered in a bike accident.
- Exchange insurance information with the other party. If you’re not seriously injured as a result of the accident and don’t need urgent medical attention, stay on the scene. Get the contact information of the other driver. Wait for the police to arrive and give a statement regarding the accident.
- Take photos. You’ll want to take a lot of pictures. You’ll want photos of your own injuries, of your bicycle, and of any damage to the other vehicle involved. You’ll also want to take photos of the scene itself; the positions of the vehicles, any tire marks or debris around the site, and any obstructions or other objects surrounding the scene.
- See a doctor. Even if you don’t believe that you’ve been injured, you should see a doctor. Some injuries, like neck injuries or concussion, may not be apparent right away. A doctor can determine whether you’ve suffered serious injuries in the bicycle accident.
- Keep detailed records. You’ll want to obtain a copy of the police report, and to keep detailed records of medical visits, injuries, and treatments.
Settlements For Injuries From Bike Accidents
If you end up suffering injuries as a result of being hit by a car on your bike, you may be entitled to damages. In Nevada, motorists are required to carry liability insurance of at least $25,000 for the injury or death of one person in any accident.
Cyclists are not required to carry liability insurance. If you’re injured in a bike accident, you’ll want to contact the other driver’s insurance company to file a third party claim. There may be an investigation to determine who is at fault in the accident.
You will also want to contact an attorney. Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. The laws surrounding these claims can be complicated, and consulting with a personal injury lawyer regarding your accident is a good idea. For example, did you know that you only have 2 years to file a lawsuit regarding a traffic accident in the state of Nevada? An excellent attorney has the knowledge and experience to help you navigate this situation.
If you’re injured in an accident while riding your bike, you may be entitled to damages for:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages, and/or reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Diminished quality of life
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship
- Disfigurement
- Permanent scarring
Having an experienced and knowledgeable personal injury attorney on your side throughout this process can help you make sure that you get the rights and settlement that you’re entitled to. Vegas Auto Injury Lawyers specializes in personal injury cases. We have more than 40 years of experience helping Nevada accident victims get the compensation that they need.
You shouldn’t have to go through this process alone. We’ll be with you every step of the way. Read more about our work as bicycle accident lawyers.
