Las Vegas Bicycle Accidents
When cyclists set out for work, a leisurely ride around town or their daily workout, there are often no lanes or shoulders to ride. When cities are unfriendly to bicycle riders, it leaves bicyclists with two choices – ride on the street, which is dangerous, or ride on the sidewalks, which is usually illegal. It’s clear why many bicycle riders feel they don’t have road rights. They are also less protected, slower and smaller than the other motor vehicles around them.
Large cars, trucks and other motor vehicles are constantly passing by at 30 to 50 miles per hour. When you are so close you can feel the wind from vehicles rushing by, it can be scary to share the same street lane. Largely, bicyclists are required to follow the same laws as motor vehicle drivers. In some circumstances, cyclists are given the same rights as pedestrians. However, unlike pedestrians, when cyclists ride on the sidewalk, they risk the safety of others and increase their chances of getting a ticket.
There are also rules and laws for motor vehicle drivers to follow in order to keep bicycle riders safe. Yellow, diamond-shaped signs inform drivers there are cyclists in the area. It is also common to see signs around cities and neighborhoods pleading with drivers to “share the road.” Sadly, these signs are often disregarded and therefore offer little comfort to bicycle riders. Not only are these signs often overlooked, but bicycle-related accidents are often ignored as well. All too often, drivers intimidate bicyclists by either running them onto the nearby sidewalk or off the road.
It is a well-known fact that traffic statistics are grim. However, the worst part is that they are not complete. Most bicycle-related accidents go unreported to the police due to a lack of information or witnesses. It seems the only instances where bicycle-related accidents are reported involve death or very serious injuries. It is the sad truth that most drivers involved in hit-and-run Las Vegas bike accidents are never caught. This does not have to be the case.
There are several key factors involved in protecting yourself on the road.
- First, stay alert and aware at all times as well as obey all rules and laws.
- Second, wear protective gear including a helmet, pads and reflective clothing. Make yourself visible to those around you both day and night – this can be accomplished by attaching lights to the seat post, handle bars and reflectors in the tire spokes.
- Lastly, prepare yourself with practice. Before heading out into the chaotic streets of Las Vegas, become adept at staying in control of your bicycle. You will be better able to move out of the way and protect yourself from harm if you are in control and aware of what’s happening around you.
When there is a Las Vegas bike accident, drivers are often let go because there is either a lack of evidence or it is assumed that the bicyclist was at fault. In these situations, it is critical to get the best representation. There are laws in favor of bicyclists and it is crucial to know your rights.
If you have been involved in a Las Vegas Bike Accident, involving injuries ranging from minor to serious, do not let it be overlooked. Our lawyers have experience handling bicycle-related accidents. Contact us at David Francis Law today for your free case consultation.
