Bicycle and car collisions are unfortunately a common occurrence. Understanding the legal rights and responsibilities involved in these incidents is crucial for both cyclists and motorists. This blog aims to shed light on these aspects and how a Kennesaw bike accident attorney can help you get compensated for your losses.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
Accidents involving motorists and bicycles are an all too common occurrence in Kennesaw, Georgia. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that a 1.07-mile stretch of I-75 in Kennesaw ranks in the top three for fatal crashes per mile in Georgia.
Similarly, the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reports that in 2021, 15 bicyclists lost their lives on our state’s roadways. The total amount of medical costs for bicyclists injured in traffic-related accidents totaled $55 million.
These staggering statistics emphasize the importance of both bicyclists and car drivers understanding their rights and responsibilities when using Georgia’s roads.
Legal Rights of Cyclists
In Kennesaw, as in the rest of Georgia, cyclists have the same rights as motorists. They are entitled to use the roads and are subject to the same rules and regulations. This includes obeying traffic signals and signs, riding on the right side of the road, and using lights and reflectors when riding at night.
If a cyclist is involved in a collision with a car, they have the right to seek compensation for damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To do so, they must be able to prove that the motorist was at fault for the accident.
Responsibilities of Cyclists
While cyclists have the same rights as motorists, they also have similar responsibilities. They must obey all traffic laws, signal their turns, and yield to pedestrians. Additionally, they should always wear a helmet and use lights and reflectors when necessary.
Cyclists also have a responsibility to ride defensively. This means being aware of their surroundings, anticipating potential hazards, and making themselves visible to motorists.
Legal Rights of Motorists
Motorists also have rights when involved in a collision with a cyclist. If the cyclist was at fault, the motorist can seek compensation for damages to their vehicle or for any injuries they may have sustained.
However, motorists also have a responsibility to share the road with cyclists. This includes giving cyclists at least three feet of clearance when passing and checking for cyclists before opening car doors or turning.
Compensation for Damages
In the event of a bicycle and car collision, the cyclist may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and damages. This compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. In Georgia, auto insurance policies cover injuries to cyclists and pedestrians.
If a motorist is found to be at fault for not following safe passing laws or for reckless driving, they could face traffic fines or even criminal charges for severe injury or fatality. Similarly, a cyclist who violates traffic laws can also be fined.
Talk to a Kennesaw Bike Crash Lawyer After a Bicycle and Car Collision
Understanding the legal rights and responsibilities of cyclists and motorists can help prevent accidents and ensure that victims are treated fairly. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle and car collision in Kennesaw, Georgia, it is advisable to consult with a legal professional at The Weinstein Law Firm to understand your rights and options. Contact us at 770-HELP-NOW for further legal advice.
