In Missouri bicycles are vehicles by a Springfield Bicycle Accident Lawyer
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It’s getting to be pretty nice outside, and that means that you will start seeing a lot more cyclists on the road. Perhaps, you are one of those cyclists. I happen to be one, and sometimes, when I am riding my bike on my way somewhere, I have had motorists shout at me to get on the sidewalk or generally to get off of the road. I’ve had things thrown at me and have even been shot at.
These angry motorists are typically wrong about the law regarding bicycles in Missouri.
The law in Missouri regards a bicycle as a vehicle. This means that the bicycle operator has both the rights and responsibilities of any other vehicle on a road with a few certain exceptions. In fact, in some municipalities, ordinances restrict cyclists from being on sidewalks.
If you are cycling on the road, you should be as far right as possible on the road. Remember to look out for parked cars and opening doors on the side of the road. On a highway, you are permitted to cycle on the shoulder unless a local ordinance prohibits it. On one-way roads, you can cycle on either the far left or far right of the road.
Also, if you are cycling, you should signal your turns by extending your left arm out for a left turn, and up for a right turn. Finally, while cycling at night, you should have a white front light and a red rear light or reflector
If you are a motorist, you should respect the bicycle with distance as if it were a motor vehicle. Share the road with bicyclists. When you pass a cyclist, you should give the cyclist at least three feet of space between your vehicle and the bike.
WHAT TO DO IF INJURED IN A BICYCLE ACCIDENT
- Go to the hospital to treat your injuries.
- Make a police report and be sure your statement is taken and accurate.
- Take photos of the damage to your bike and don’t repair it right away.
- Take photos of the accident scene.
- Take photos of your injuries and continue to do so as you heal.
- Take photos of the car or truck that struck you.
- Get the names, addresses and phone numbers of any witnesses, including vehicle passengers.
- Get the license plate number of the vehicle and ask to see the driver’s license of the driver involved.
- Save damaged clothing and your helmet. (You will want to replace your helmet before you ride next though.)
- Don’t give a statement to the driver’s insurance company without speaking to an attorney first.
- Hire a lawyer with bicycle accident experience–both in the law and on the road.
If you or someone you love is involved in a bicycle accident, whether with a motorist, as a result of a pothole, or any other cause, contact an attorney to evaluate the case.
HIRING A BICYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER
Most Missouri personal injury lawyers have not been on a bicycle since they received their drivers license. Many will secretly HATE cyclists and believe you were at fault for your accident (and be willing to take less money to resolve your case). You should look for a lawyer who understands the reality of riding bicycles in Missouri. If you were injured and require medical attention, you should contact a lawyer about your bicycle accident to prevent the insurance companies from taking advantage of you and not providing enough financial compensation to cover all the expenses you may have from medical bills to bike repairs to lost wages. Read more about “How a Bicycle Accident Lawyer can Help You.”
Please call us today for a free initial consultation about your bike accident case with no obligation to hire us as your attorney and no fee collected unless we win compensation for you.
More information to help you if you have been in a bicycle accident: