Responsibilities of A Bicycle Rider

Bicycles have become a more and more popular over the last few decades.  They are such an efficient, useful and economical mode of transportation.   However, there are also many important things that cyclists and others on the road need to remember to always do while sharing the road. While there are so many positive benefits to cycling, there are also unfortunately many accidents involving bikes and cars or pedestrians. In order to help keep cyclists safe and keep personal injuries from happening, everyone on the street needs to be alert and responsible for their actions.

Those who are car drivers need to always be aware and remember to not only look out for other drivers and for pedestrians, but also keep a lookout for cyclists. One main issue with cars and cyclists is when drivers park on the side of a street and open their driver side car door directly into the bike lane. This can be extremely dangerous if a cyclist is driving by as the driver opens the door, as they may be unable to stop in time or swerve into the road to avoid hitting the door or unable to stop and slam into the car door. This problem could easily be avoided in many situations simply by all drivers looking back before opening their car door when parking on a street.

Walking has also always been a popular form of transportation.   Especially in more city like areas.    That being said pedestrians need to also be alert and not only keep an eye out for cars and other vehicles on the road but also be aware of bikes. This means that pedestrians need to pay attention and not be distracted by phones and other devices when they are walking in a busy area. Simply being a more alert pedestrian and being cautious when you are crossing the street can make a huge difference.

But what about the responsibilities that fall upon the actual bicycle driver?  There are certainly responsibilities that clearly fall onto the cyclists themselves. Many cyclists do not follow the rules of the road and some of the biggest complaints many drivers and pedestrians have about cyclists is that they do not stop at stop signs and do not use turn signals, that they do not give pedestrians the right of way, that they do not make themselves visible enough and that they ride on the sidewalks. It is very crucial that cyclists obey the rules of the road and make sure to always follow the rules in order to keep the roads safer for everybody. Additionally, it is important to have the proper gear, including lights and reflectors, to make sure that everyone else on the road as well as pedestrians are able to see the cyclists and avoid an accident.

If everyone remembers to do their part and be responsible and aware of cyclists, the number of personal injuries resulting from bike accidents will certainly decrease and more people will stay safe on the road. If you or a loved one has suffered personal injuries from a bike accident you should contact a lawyer immediately.  Contact an experienced New York personal injury lawyer at The Law Offices of Spencer M. Fein, P.C.   We have represent numerous individuals throughout the state, including Westchester, Putnam, Rockland and Dutchess Counties.    We represent individuals harmed due to the negligence of others.