Hostility Between Cyclist and Motorist
There always seems to be hostility between bicyclists and vehicle drivers when it comes to sharing the road. Both parties believe that they have specific "rights" on the road and believe that the other person is in violation of those rights. Sadly, both parties are often incorrect about the traffic laws they believe have been violated. Most traffic rules surrounding bicycles and vehicles sharing the road are urban legend.
There have been several cases of violence between cyclist and motorist in the headlines over the last few years. For instance, some cyclists have experienced harassment from irate drivers, which resulted in verbal abuse. In some cases, cyclists were even run off the road and physically injured. Biking/motorist myths may have played a part in this scenario.
Myths About Bicycle/Motorist Interactions
There is no guarantee of right-of-way for either car or bicycle on most roads. There is no requirement for the bicycle to be used on a sidewalk if one is available. Cars do not have to give-way to bicycles at intersections. These are all common misconceptions that lead to accidents.
Common Accidents Injuries
When a vehicle and a bicycle have an accident, it is easy to understand that the cyclist will be the one with the injuries. Bicyclists often receive traumatic head injuries, spine injuries and broken bones when they are involved in an crash. The lack of protection leaves them vulnerable to the size and weight of the car.
Passengers in the vehicle can also find themselves seriously injured when the car swerves to avoid a bicyclist and impacts another car or object. Many of these collisions result in severe neck and head injuries. Sadly, both of these types of accidents could be avoided if each driver was knowledgeable of the law. It is important to familiarize yourself with your state's law if you are a driver or cyclist. For example, below are just a few road rules for those who share the roadways in the Sunshine State:
Sharing The Road With A Bicyclist
Bicycles must ride with the flow of traffic. Riding against the traffic will lead to accidents.
Cars and bicycles must use headlights at night time. Bicycles must have reflectors or a light on the back of their vehicle in order to be seen by other cars.
Bicycles and cars must have fully operational brakes that are good enough to come to a complete stop within 25 feet of initializing the brake system.
Anyone operating a vehicle in some states cannot wear a headset. Having ear buds or headphones on is considered a safety violation.
Bicycles must use the bicycle lane or the far right lane of any road. The only exception to this rule is if there is potential for danger in the bicycle lane or right lane.
Bicyclists must signal a turn at least 100 feet before they turn, just like a car.
Bicyclists, as of 2012, do not have to keep at least one hand on their handle bars at all times to be in compliance with the law.
To stay safe on the roads, motorists and bicyclists must put aside their differences and familiarize themselves with state statutes and learn to share the roads. By understanding the real laws and not operating either type of vehicle under speculation, everyone can remain safe.
There have been several cases of violence between cyclist and motorist in the headlines over the last few years. For instance, some cyclists have experienced harassment from irate drivers, which resulted in verbal abuse. In some cases, cyclists were even run off the road and physically injured. Biking/motorist myths may have played a part in this scenario.
Myths About Bicycle/Motorist Interactions
There is no guarantee of right-of-way for either car or bicycle on most roads. There is no requirement for the bicycle to be used on a sidewalk if one is available. Cars do not have to give-way to bicycles at intersections. These are all common misconceptions that lead to accidents.
Common Accidents Injuries
When a vehicle and a bicycle have an accident, it is easy to understand that the cyclist will be the one with the injuries. Bicyclists often receive traumatic head injuries, spine injuries and broken bones when they are involved in an crash. The lack of protection leaves them vulnerable to the size and weight of the car.
Passengers in the vehicle can also find themselves seriously injured when the car swerves to avoid a bicyclist and impacts another car or object. Many of these collisions result in severe neck and head injuries. Sadly, both of these types of accidents could be avoided if each driver was knowledgeable of the law. It is important to familiarize yourself with your state's law if you are a driver or cyclist. For example, below are just a few road rules for those who share the roadways in the Sunshine State:
Sharing The Road With A Bicyclist
Bicycles must ride with the flow of traffic. Riding against the traffic will lead to accidents.
Cars and bicycles must use headlights at night time. Bicycles must have reflectors or a light on the back of their vehicle in order to be seen by other cars.
Bicycles and cars must have fully operational brakes that are good enough to come to a complete stop within 25 feet of initializing the brake system.
Anyone operating a vehicle in some states cannot wear a headset. Having ear buds or headphones on is considered a safety violation.
Bicycles must use the bicycle lane or the far right lane of any road. The only exception to this rule is if there is potential for danger in the bicycle lane or right lane.
Bicyclists must signal a turn at least 100 feet before they turn, just like a car.
Bicyclists, as of 2012, do not have to keep at least one hand on their handle bars at all times to be in compliance with the law.
To stay safe on the roads, motorists and bicyclists must put aside their differences and familiarize themselves with state statutes and learn to share the roads. By understanding the real laws and not operating either type of vehicle under speculation, everyone can remain safe.
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