California’s temperate climate and large network of roads and highways make a great combination for riding your bicycle almost any day of the week — but being careful pays off. Not all drivers or even other riders provide as much courtesy as they should to others on the road.
In the San Fernando Valley, drivers are required to share the road with cyclists, whether they like it or not. To keep the roads safe, here are a few common scenarios cyclists and drivers should be alert to:
- Opening Car Doors in Bike Lanes: The California Vehicle Code actually forbids opening the door of a vehicle on the same side as moving traffic unless it is reasonably safe to do so. Nonetheless, drivers and passengers constantly open car doors as cyclists speed by in the bicycle lanes. When you are cycling through an area with street parking, pay attention to persons getting into and out of their vehicles. Likewise, if you are a driver or passenger, look both ways for bicycle traffic before getting out of your car.
- Turning Left Without Yielding: The Vehicle Code requires all drivers attempting to make a left turn yield the right of way to any vehicles coming in the opposite lane. However, many drivers are not prepared to see vehicles with two wheels gliding into the intersection, and they often do not yield to cyclists. When you are cycling through intersection, keep an eye out for drivers turning left and be prepared to change your route if you cannot safely pass.
- Passing Without Adequate Distance: It can be difficult at times to share the road with either a driver or a cyclist. The Vehicle Code allows bike riding on most major surface streets and some highways, and cyclists are supposed to ride as far as possible along the right-hand edge of the roadway with the flow of traffic. Drivers may become impatient and run cyclists off the road, causing accidents. If you are driving, look out for cyclists and provide a wide berth.
- Backing Up Without Looking: If you need to unexpectedly back up from a driveway or a side street, do a thorough check by using your rear-view and side mirrors. Drivers often do not look for cyclists, who are not in cars and may appear to blend in with the surroundings. Such a careless move may violate laws forbidding entry onto a roadway or highway without adequate caution.
If you find yourself hurt in one of these scenarios, consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer may be a smart choice. You may be suffering from injuries such as concussions, fractures of arms, legs, and ribs, spinal injuries, or contusions. Or even internal bleeding and injuries to vital organs. An experienced accident lawyer in Woodland Hills can help you determine what you might be entitled to.
For more information on financial recovery relating to bike accidents or auto accidents, contact personal injury lawyer Barry P. Goldberg today.