As cyclists hit the road this summer – alone, in pairs or in bike clubs – responsible drivers take care to give them plenty of room. They know that bike vs. car collisions can end catastrophically for a cyclist.
Unfortunately, not all bicyclists use the same caution. Some can get distracted and wander out of the bike lane. Those who are riding with others can have a false sense of security. If they are riding with earbuds in (which is unsafe and unwise), they may not hear vehicles approaching them. Still others are just plain reckless.
Georgia, like other states, has “rules of the road” that bicyclists need to follow. These are essential to their safety and that of others on the road. Some areas also have local bike codes.
How a cyclist can cause a collision
People often assume that a collision between a driver and a cyclist must be the drivers’ fault. In fact, sometimes cyclists are responsible for these collisions – often because they’ve made a sudden, reckless and/or illegal move. In some cases, one of these moves results in a collision that they escape completely. A cyclist’s actions may cause a driver to move into another lane or brake suddenly to avoid hitting them. This can cause the driver to crash into another vehicle or an object like a light post, traffic sign or tree.
Can a cyclist’s insurance cover the damages?
When a driver is injured in a crash caused by a bicyclist, there is generally at least one opportunity available for seeking recourse. Many auto insurance policies cover a policy holder and/or the harm that they cause if they’re involved in an accident on their bike. Some cyclists have insurance coverage for bicycle accidents through an umbrella personal injury policy.
A cyclist’s safety gear may even help a driver with the evidence they need for a claim. Many cyclists have cameras on their bikes. Some have them on their helmets as well. It’s important to try to get this footage to see what it shows.
When a driver is involved in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence or recklessness – even if it was someone on a bike – seeking experienced legal guidance can be the key to getting justice and fair compensation.