There are various safety measures for Charleston drivers to avoid hitting a bicyclist. Of these measures, none may be more impactful than the general responsibility of operating a vehicle in a safe and responsible manner. By driving at the speed limit and paying attention to their surroundings, drivers can make a bicyclist’s experience on the road much safer. To learn more, schedule a consultation today.
Examples of On-Guard Safety Measures a Bicyclists Should Utilize
Just like drivers, bicyclists should make sure to know the area and habits of the drivers in the area. If they are traveling down a long roadway, they should stay as far as possible to the side of the road since some vehicles may be traveling at a particularly fast speed. If they are traveling through a densely populated area, they should take the time to familiarize themselves with the bike lanes and intersections where pedestrians are known to cross and/or jaywalk. Lastly, bicyclists should make it a priority to make sure their tire pressure is at an appropriate level and that the brakes on their bike are also functioning.
What Precautions People Should Take as Automobile Drivers Help Prevent Bicycle Accidents?
There are various precautions drivers could take to lessen the likelihood of a pedestrian accident. First, drivers should take the time to learn about the area they are driving through. They should be on the eye of any bike lanes or sidewalks running close to the roadway. Having these locations in mind can better prepare a driver for a pedestrian planning to cross a street or when a bike would veer into their path or blind spot.
Drivers should also make sure that their vehicles are properly maintained, mainly their brakes. If the driver is operating a vehicle with faulty or old brakes and they hit a pedestrian, they would have a difficult time trying to lessen the liability against them.
When Should a Motorist Pass a Bicyclist?
There is a general standard that applies when passing both motorists and bicyclists. If the only way to pass either is by crossing over the double yellow line, it may be best to wait for more room to pass because doing so under this circumstance could cause someone to drive into the oncoming driver. However, if the bicyclist is in their designated lane, drivers should be able to pass the bicyclist without worrying about their safety. Drivers should also keep in mind that they are under a heightened standard. If they collide with a motorist, serious injury is possible, but not when the collision involves a bicyclist. The bicyclist would suffer catastrophic injuries, so motorists should do their best to give them enough distance when passing.
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When a car collides with a bicyclist, it is fairly easy to determine who would be sustaining the more serious injuries of the two. Considering the lack of safety measures afforded to bicyclists against heavy motor vehicles, individuals should take on the safety measures for Charleston drivers to take to avoid hitting a bicyclist. Although these measures do not eliminate the risk of being struck by a vehicle, it does drastically decrease it, making it a worthwhile investment of time to learn more.
