With densely packed suburban communities and sprawling shopping centers with long connections in between, the Inland Empire offers an extensive infrastructure for cyclists. Redlands has further created more room for cyclists with, green bicycle-only lanes to provide safety to both cyclists and pedestrians through areas with heavy traffic.
Popularity of cycling has exploded nationally more than 300% – a sign of the changing culture and economy. With an increase of this magnitude as well as an increase of mobile phone usage while driving (a.k.a. distracted driving), an increase in collisions between vehicles and cyclists seemed inevitable.
What to do if you are hit by a car when riding a bicycle
Increased bike activity combined with increased vehicle and pedestrians results in all three sharing the road. Unfortunately, cars don’t share so well with bicycles and pedestrians. If you find yourself in an accident, these are some common questions we have helped others discuss during their no-risk consultation at HarshLaw.
- I have suffered an injury. Am I entitled to no-fault coverage in order to pay for my medical bills and reimburse for loss of earnings?
- Will I be able to recover for the property damage to my bicycle or other items?
- Does it matter who had the right of way?
- Is a government agency or other commercial property owner liable for roadway conditions which contributed or caused the accident?
- What is the statute of limitations to file such a claim?
- Was a defect in the bicycle manufacture or maintenance a factor in the accident?
All of these questions may be addressed in a consultation with an attorney at HarshLaw.
Prevention: Tips for staying safe and avoiding collisions
Here are four commonsense tips to help keep yourself safe when on the road that we recommend everyone practice, regardless of age or experience level:
- Wear a helmet. Head injuries are one of the most common causes of cycling fatalities. Use of head protection lowers your risk for a serious head injury by 60-percent. Helmets should also meet all relevant safety regulations.
- Visually communicate. Hand signals provide a clear signal to observant vehicle drivers. Whenever applicable, use hand signals while riding single file with traffic flow.
- Don’t hide. Wear bright clothing and use reflective materials if riding at night.
- Get loud. Horns, bells and headlights can also be used to improve safety.
Redlands and San Bernardino County Bicycle Lawyers
Representing Cyclists in Redlands, Highland, Loma Linda, San Bernardino, Yucaipa and all of San Bernardino County.
HarshLaw is a regionally recognized law firm representing the rights of injured cyclists, pedestrians, and their loved ones. The community of Redlands and San Bernardino County is filled with cyclists of many types – recreational, commuter, exercise and professional. All cyclists share the roads and need an experienced attorney to help when a vehicular collision results in serious injury or death.