Tragic Bicycle Accident Serves As Reminder Of Bike Laws
Like so many others, we were heartbroken to learn of the tragic accident that resulted in a bicyclist losing her life after swerving into oncoming traffic before being hit by an automobile driver. Devastating accidents like this are reminders of just how vulnerable cyclists are to automobiles and other vehicles.
Safety Tips for Bikers in San Diego
Without doubt, San Diego is a fantastic city for cyclists. There’s an abundance of outdoor leisure options and the temperature is ideal. While we want bicyclists, auto drivers and pedestrians to share the road, accidents do happen.
How often do these accidents happen? According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were 128 bike fatalities in 2014. The most effective ways of protecting yourself from serious injury in a bike accident include:
- Always wearing a helmet
- Wearing reflective material on your clothing
- Maintaining a safe distance between yourself and others
- Try to establish eye contact with other travelers before making turns or merging
- Installing and using front and rear lights on your bike
Requirements of Cyclists in San Diego
Here in San Diego, cyclists are treated the same as automobile drivers – meaning you are required to obey traffic laws, including adhering to proper lane designations, traffic signal lights and DUI laws, among others. As a cyclist, you are required by law to use proper hand signals before turning, stopping or changing lanes. Our cycle helmet laws require anyone cyclist under the age of 18 to wear a helmet.
Other good reminders include equipping your bike with a headlamp and a reflector strip on your bike’s pedals.
Let Us Help You if You’ve Been in a Bike Accident
If you have experienced injuries resulting from a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. We would certainly welcome the opportunity to talk with you about your situation. With the Gilleon Law Firm, APC, you can count on receiving aggressive yet compassionate legal representation. While our offices are located in San Diego, we’re proud to serve in Orange and Los Angeles counties as well. Contact our office at (619) 702-8623 for a free consultation.
