Bicycle & Pedestrian Attorney Serving Tyler, Texas and surrounding areas

Rules

– A bicycle may travel at a slower speed than the rest of traffic! In this case the law requires the bicyclist to drive as close as reasonably possible to the right shoulder or edge of the roadway. Exceptions to this rule include:

• Passing another vehicle moving in the same direction
• Approaching an upcoming left turn
• Avoiding unsafe conditions (such as parked cars or potholes)
• The lane is too narrow and unsafe for bicycles and motor vehicles to drive side by side

– Bicyclists can only ride astride or on a permanent and regular seat.
– Bicycles cannot carry more riders than originally designed or equipped to carry.
– No person riding a bicycle shall attach themselves to any streetcar or vehicle on a roadway.
– You must always ride a bicycle with at least one hand on the handlebars.
– Bicycles must have proper brakes equipped.
– Bicycles operated at night must have a headlamp and red reflector or lamp.

Many areas with high traffic will provide additional off-road bike paths for cyclists to use to help avoid accidents. There is no law that requires cyclists to use these paths. Cyclists may choose to continue using the roadway so long as they follow the appropriate rules and regulations of the road.

Road Regulations

While operating a bicycle, it is also important for the rider to be aware of the proper hand signals used to indicate turns and stopping. These signals act as the bicycle’s brake lights and turn signals! These alert drivers and other riders to your travel path, keeping everyone safe and accident-free.

– Stop – Extend your left hand and turn your forearm downward at a 90-degree angle.
– Left Turn – Extend your left hand and arm horizontally
– Right Turn – Extend your left arm to the left and turn your forearm up at a 90-degree angle or extend the right hand and arm horizontally.

Pedestrian

Unlike bicycles, pedestrians can’t use roadways unless an adjacent sidewalk is not available to use. Bicycles ride with traffic and operate on the right side of the road! However, a pedestrian walking on a roadway must walk on the left side of the road, walking against traffic.

Reporting an Accident

When involved in an accident as a cyclist or pedestrian, it is always important to report the accident to the local authorities. Although it is only required by law to make a report if the accident results in injury, death, or property damage. These damages have to be equal to $1000 or more, having an official report will help with your claim.

If a hit and run accident happens, it is important to stay at the scene of the accident, especially if you sustained injuries. Immediately call 9-1-1 or your local authorities. Do not try to follow the vehicle that is part of the accident. Never move away from the scene of the accident before contacting local authorities! It could result in your insurance being unable to directly tie the damages sustained to the accident.

Reports and Documents

Along with making an official accident report, it’s essential to keep any and all documents and receipts related to the accident. Hospital and doctor’s visits may need additional notes from the doctor! These notes have to declare that the injuries reported were a direct result of the accident. You may be able to receive income replacement as well if you are unable to perform your regular job duties as a result of your injuries, so you might need your pay stubs during your claims process.

If your injuries are severe after an accident as a bicyclist or pedestrian, you are eligible to collect compensation. You can get compensation for injuries and property damages sustained as a result of a driver’s negligence. Call the Vickery Law Firm today at (903) 504-5490 to discuss the details of your accident and what compensation you could receive. With over 30 years of experience practicing law, Attorney Vickery is ready to fight to get you the full compensation you deserve.