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Whenever bicyclists and car drivers share the same street in Missouri, confrontations are bound to occur over who has the right of way. In the worst-case scenario, these clashes have resulted in serious accidents.
Many vehicle owners consider cyclists to be a nuisance on the road, with some drivers going as far as suggesting they are dangerous and should be confined to the sidewalks. However, this is not true and is just one of the many myths that drivers have regarding bicyclists.
In Missouri, the law is there to protect all road users, whether they are driving a car or riding a bicycle. It is, therefore, important to debunk any misconceptions that people have about cyclists.
While many measures are in place to safeguard the lives of people who commute in America's largest cities, every once in a while, a serious crash does happen. In such cases, having a good bicycle accident attorney is important for victims seeking justice.
With many years of experience helping clients who have been hurt in a crash involving a car and a bicycle, Powell Law Firm has the compassion, determination, and expertise to fight for the rights of bike accident victims.
A free consultation can be scheduled today with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer.
What Causes the Majority of Bicycle Accidents?
Simply analyzing some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in Missouri is often enough to show just how wrong most people are about bicyclists creating a hazardous environment on the roads.
The following are some of the things that cause these accidents to occur:
Distracted driving
Speeding
Unsafe lane changes
Driving a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Turning without looking
Opening doors in front of cyclists
Riding against traffic
Poor road conditions
Eight Common Bicycle Accident Myths That Are Not True
Considering the many causes of bicycle accidents, it is surprising why car owners are sometimes quick to point fingers at cyclists.
The following are examples of some of these common myths that need to be debunked:
Myth 1: Bike Accidents Are Minor
In terms of severity, many people seem to think that a car accident is always much worse than a crash between bicyclists and a vehicle.
While it is true that when one car collides with another, there is bound to be a lot more property damage, it is important to consider the high risk of suffering serious injuries that cyclists are exposed to.
If a bicyclist is hit by a speeding vehicle, for example, they can easily lose their life while the occupants of the car remain unscratched. This is why any bicycle accident can be a very serious one.
Myth 2: The Cyclists Are Always to Blame
The myth that bicyclists are always to blame for a bicycle accident is quite widespread, even though there is not a shred of evidence to support it.
In many cases, investigations uncover details that show that the opposite is true, and car drivers are usually to blame.
As such, it is important to look at both sides when determining who is at fault. In a personal injury claim, proving fault plays a huge role in the judge's decision regarding compensation.
Myth 3: Cyclists Must Always Stay in Their Bike Lanes
Many car owners are often surprised to learn that there is no legal requirement for bicyclists to stick to bike lanes when riding on the road. A bike lane is simply meant to provide added safety for cyclists when they ride, not a legal obligation.
In some cases, cyclists may even find that it is safer to leave their bike lanes for a short time and encroach onto the road. This is why drivers need to be alerted all the time.
Myth 4: Bikers Are a Road Hazard
After a bicycle accident occurs, the focus is often on determining who is to blame for the collision. Since many people believe that bicyclists are a road hazard, they are often quick to blame them.
However, studies have shown that distracted driving is a far more likely cause of a bicycle accident than anything the cyclist might have done.
A simple error, such as trying to pass another vehicle on the right side of the road can cause a serious crash.
Myth 5: Road Rules Don't Apply to Cyclists
A common argument between drivers and cyclists is regarding which road rules apply to bicyclists and which do not.
However, it is important to remember that many road rules need to be obeyed by all users, including cyclists.
Only in a few circumstances are some changes necessary. A good example is when it comes to stop signs and red lights.
In some states, bicyclists are allowed to continue rolling and proceed cautiously through the red light if it is safe to do so.
Myth 6: Bicycle Riders Do Not Need Lights at Night
Another myth that is believed by both drivers and bicyclists is that there is no need to have a light on a bike when riding at night.
This practice can be very dangerous because riders assume that drivers can see them when that is not the case.
To be safe, it is a good idea to not only have a light on at night but also wear reflective clothing to increase visibility.
Myth 7: Cyclists Should Always Ride Single File
Many drivers believe that cyclists should ride in a single file on the side of the road. However, this is not always the safest way of sharing the road.
In many cases, when two or more cyclists are riding abreast, it is easier for the driver to see them rather than assume there is only one rider rather than an entire group.
However, in certain cases, such as when being overtaken by a fast-moving vehicle on a narrow road, riding a single file is the best option. It is also important to consider what the law says about riding as a group in some places.
Myth 8: All Cyclists Are Fitness Enthusiasts
Finally, not everyone who chooses to cycle rather than drive a vehicle is a fitness enthusiast or cycling hobbyist. Some people cycle to work every day because it is the most convenient and affordable way to travel for them.
It is, therefore, always good to be as considerate as possible when sharing the road with a bicyclist rather than assume they are blocking the roads for no good reason.
What to Do After Suffering Serious Injuries in a Bike Accident
As mentioned earlier, bicyclists can easily suffer serious injuries if they are involved in a bicycle accident. If this happens, victims need to:
Seek Medical Attention
The health and safety of everyone involved in the bicycle accident is paramount. As such, seeking proper medical attention is the first and most important thing to do.
By seeing a doctor, the victims also get a chance to obtain a doctor's report that will come in handy when determining compensation if the case goes to trial.
Gather Evidence
Even the best bicycle accident attorneys still need some evidence to bring before a judge if they are to win the case.
As such, victims can increase their chances of success by gathering important evidence, such as pictures of the accident scene, police reports, and statements from eyewitnesses to the accident.
Speak to a Good Lawyer
Finally, a good bicycle accident lawyer can be the difference between winning and losing a lawsuit. Only with the right legal representation can victims be awarded maximum compensation for their injuries. They are able to help with common motorcycle accident myths in Missouri as well.
When seeking non-economic damages, for example, it takes an experienced attorney to argue their client's case before a judge. Bicycle accident victims can request a free consultation to discuss the terms of the case.
What Damages Can Bicycle Accident Victims Win?
The majority of damages that can be awarded in a Missouri bicycle accident are separated into either economic or non-economic damages.
With the former, the victims will be compensated for their medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other losses that are easily quantifiable.
Other damages, such as loss of companionship, pain, and suffering, are not as easy to prove. Here, the victim will rely on the expertise of a St Louis bike accident attorney to convince the judge how much compensation they are entitled to.
Powell Law Firm Is Ready to Fight for Missouri Cyclists
The state of Missouri aims to protect all its road users by making highways, bike lanes, and sidewalks available to drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. However, despite these efforts, bicycle accidents still happen.
Luckily, the state entitles the victims to seek compensation from the at-fault parties. A good attorney, such as the ones at Powell Law Firm, can fight for the rights of injured cyclists seeking compensation from reckless drivers.
Victims can call right now and schedule a free consultation.
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