Bicycles are a great way to commute to work or just to use for transportation around your community. Using bicycles as a means of transportation is not just healthy for your body, but also for the environment.
However, with heavy traffic and zooming motorists on the roads, riding a bicycle is not as safe as it has been in the past. Getting into a bicycle accident is scary, especially if you believe in certain myths about bicycle laws. In this blog, we will debunk the common myths so as a bicyclist, you know your rights and how to get the compensation you deserve with the help of a Pasadena bicycle accident attorney.
Myth 1: Cyclists are Always at Fault
One of the most common misconceptions is that bicycle riders are the cause of accidents as they don’t follow the rules of the roads. In reality, cyclists and drivers have to abide by the same traffic laws, aiming to ensure road safety and harmony.
Accidents involving bicycles and motor vehicles often stem from driver error, such as misjudging the cyclist’s speed or failing to yield the right of way rather than reckless cycling.
Determining fault in these incidents involves a careful examination of negligence, where a driver’s failure to observe traffic laws or to act with due caution plays a significant role.
Cyclists are more vulnerable to accidents due to the lack of protective frames compared to cars and can suffer severe injuries even in minor collisions. It’s essential to challenge the assumption that cyclists are always to blame and recognize the shared responsibility for preventing accidents, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and awareness among all road users to enhance safety.
Myth 2: Bicycles Shouldn’t Be on the Road
The belief that cyclists don’t belong on the road is a widespread myth that overlooks cyclists’ rights and the rules of road sharing. Cyclists have every right to be on the road with the traffic and use bike lanes or as far to the right side of the road as possible. While some people believe bike lanes are unsafe, which leads them to use sidewalks, any of this does not reduce their right to the road.
Cyclists in Pasadena are required to travel in the same direction as traffic, adhering to the same regulations that apply to slow-moving vehicles. This rule ensures that cyclists are predictable in their movements, reducing the risk of accidents. The city acknowledges the significance of bike lanes for cyclist safety but also upholds that cyclists’ right to the road remains intact, regardless of the perceived safety of bike lanes. Pasadena’s approach to cycling illustrates a balanced effort to protect cyclists.
Myth 3: It’s Not Worth Pursuing Compensation
The misconception that pursuing compensation after a bicycle accident isn’t worth the effort overlooks the significant impact such incidents can have on a cyclist’s life. Whether it’s due to medical expenses, lost wages, or the emotional distress caused by the accident, the potential damages can be substantial. It’s important to understand the importance of seeking justice and compensation for the losses if you are injured in a cycling accident.
Engaging a bicycle accident attorney can be a decisive step toward protecting one’s rights and securing a fair settlement. Even if, as a cyclist, you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, this does not eliminate your eligibility for compensation. Consulting with a bicycle accident attorney can help you navigate through the claim process and get the compensation you are entitled to.
Myth 4: Only Motorists Can Be Held Liable
While drivers do have a significant responsibility to check bike lanes and sidewalks before proceeding or turning, they’re not the only ones who can be found at fault. Pedestrians, municipalities, and even product manufacturers can also bear liability in certain situations.
For instance, a pedestrian stepping suddenly into a bike lane without looking can cause an accident, municipalities can be held accountable for not maintaining safe road conditions, and manufacturers might be liable if a bicycle malfunction leads to an accident. After a bicycle accident, it’s vital to seek medical attention first, followed by consulting a Pasadena personal injury attorney.
Myth 5: Hiring a Lawyer is Unnecessary
Legal representation in such cases goes beyond mere formality; it provides a strategic advantage in navigating the complex legal landscape. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, understanding the nuances of traffic laws and how they apply specifically to cyclists. They can meticulously investigate the accident, gathering evidence and eyewitness accounts to build a strong case.
Pasadena bicycle accident attorneys can negotiate with insurance companies, who often seek to minimize payouts. Without legal representation, you might find yourself at a disadvantage, potentially accepting settlements that fall short of covering their medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. A cycling accident lawyer can accurately assess the true value of a claim, ensuring that all present and future expenses related to the accident are accounted for.
Having a lawyer handle the legal proceedings allows you to focus on recovery, relieving the stress and time commitment required to pursue a claim.
Conclusion
We encourage you to educate yourself about your rights and have knowledge about the complexities of post-accident procedures. It is important to act proactively to ensure fair compensation after an accident. In situations where legal complexities overwhelm, seeking professional legal assistance is advised.
At Grigoryam Blum & Grigoryan, we offer knowledge and experience in bike accident cases. With an understanding of the challenges faced by cyclists and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes, our team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the legal process.
If you find yourself in need of experienced legal support, reach out to Grigoryan Blum & Grigoryan. Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you.