BIKE LANES MORE DANGEROUS THAN ROADWAYS? CONTACT A CALIFORNIA BICYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER.
A Central California newspaper cites a bicyclist’s plea for halting of bike lane construction. Lanes specifically sanctioned for bicycle riders can provide a false sense of security, the writer notes. As seasoned bikers know, too many bicyclists proceeding straight in a bike lane are struck by drivers turning right, in a dangerous and common collision known as a “right hook.” This and other hazards make riding a bike in an urban area, even in a bike lane, extremely dangerous causing serious injury and death. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle-related accident in California, please seek the help of a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. Call us at 1-800-ALAWPRO now for your free consultation.
Many factors contribute to the potential danger of bike lanes. Injuries from bicycle accidents can be serious and often fatal. Here is a list of a few common bicycle lane hazards:
- Lanes in poor condition or improperly maintained, including dangerous surfaces or obstacles
- Car drivers not familiar enough with the rules for cyclists, including who has the right of way and directional hand signals
- Motor vehicle drivers not aware enough of bicycles, including bicycle speed and braking abilities
- Getting “Doored:” Bike lanes proximity to parked or parking cars, can result in cyclists being hit by car doors opening, or bicyclists swerving into oncoming traffic to avoid the opening doors.
- “Right-hook” accidents: At intersections, bicycles going straight in bike lane are hit by cars turning right.
- “Left-hook” accidents: At intersections, bicyclists going straight in bike lane are hit by cars turning left
10% of crashes between cars and bicycles are right hooks.
Have you or a family member been injured in a bicycle accident in California? If so, please contact the Law Offices of The Rudman Law Firm, PLC LLP now. Our Law Team has more than 50 years combined experience in representing the rights of the injured. Call 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) now and receive a free and confidential consultation regarding your case. We are here to help you now.
