Tips for Driving Around Bicycles in Phoenix
As warmer weather approaches, more bicyclists will be riding around the streets of Phoenix. Riding bikes is a common way to transport from one location to the next in Arizona. Drivers need to always be aware of their surroundings on the roadways because they could be sharing the road with bikers. Some drivers find it difficult to share the road with bikers because they don’t know how much space to leave them. If you are sharing the road with a biker, you should always be extra cautious and leave more space than you think so they have enough room to ride safely. Listed below are some helpful tips for drivers who share the road with bike riders.
Pass and Turn with Caution
You should always err on the side of caution when you are passing a cyclist on the main roads. Make sure you leave a lot of room for your car to safely pass a biker. This is especially true if you are turning. You don’t want to cut the turn too close and end up in an accident or sideswipe the cyclist. If this happens you could be held liable for any damages or injuries sustained. These injuries could range from minor cuts to catastrophic injuries. Some times these accidents can be fatal. In 2018 there were a total of 857 fatal bike accidents in the United States. Furthermore, these fatal accidents most frequently occurred between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. It is important to pass with caution when driving next to an individual riding a bike.
Don’t Drive in Bike Lanes
Never drive in a bike lane. These are specifically labeled for cyclists so they can ride safely and freely on the main roads. They should be aware of drivers on the road, but they expect to only cross paths with other cyclists. These lanes are specifically labeled for bikers so they don’t have to maneuver around cars as it would be very difficult for them to do. Bikes are a lot smaller than cars and could get lost in the shuffle of other cars.
Never Assume Their Next Move
Not all bikers will signal where they are going. Vehicle drivers should never assume they know where bikers are going to go. Bikers could experience debris or potholes in their lane, which could force them to swerve or brake suddenly. Don’t assume they will always ride in a straight line. Unexpected obstacles pop up so make sure to always be aware of cyclist’s next movements.
Finding an Arizona Automobile Accident Attorney
If you have been involved in an accident with a bicyclist, reach out to a car accident attorney in Phoenix. It can be very confusing to determine all of the legal aspects that are affected by this accident. The auto accident attorneys at ELG want to help you understand all of your legal options.
Our attorneys will help you file a legal claim and will evaluate all the details of your accident. We know how important it is to have a strong legal team on your side. We work for injured victims and help them recover compensation for their injuries. Contact our team of knowledgeable Phoenix attorneys to explore all of your legal options and set up a consultation. Call us today at either our Phoenix or Mesa Arizona law offices at (623) 877-3600.
