With spring and summer approaching, more and more people are outside riding their bicycles. Bicycle safety involves more than wearing the proper equipment, such as a helmet. It also involves knowing and abiding by the rules of the road.
California Vehicle Code not only applies to automobiles and trucks, it also applies to the operation of a bicycle. Bicycle VC 21200 states, “Every person riding a bicycle upon a street or highway has all the rights and is subject to all the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle, including the provisions of law dealing with driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs, except those provisions which by their very nature can have no application.”
California Vehicle Code 21202 applies to the duty of a bicycle operator. It states, in part, “Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at such time shall ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under specific situations.” These include passing another bike or motor vehicle, making a left turn at an intersection, and when necessary to avoid specific conditions, such as pedestrians, hazards in the road and animals.
If you are planning on riding your bicycle on a street or roadway, I would suggest you learn and practice the bicycle safety rules of the road. Bicycle accidents can be severe – sometimes fatal. If you are involved in an accident while on the road, contact an experienced San Bernardino Personal Injury attorney who will advise you on your legal rights and whether you are entitled to compensation.
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For those of you walking in town or to school, please remember that if you cross in a crosswalk, look both ways. Pedestrians are required to exercise caution before entering a crosswalk or any road. Do not think a car will stop just because it should or because the light is green. If a car collides with a pedestrian, chances are a serious injury will incur. Of course, all drivers should know that appropriate care should be taken, especially near schools.
An accident is most likely to occur if the pedestrian ignores the traffic light or signs. Do not try to cross if a sign switches from ‘walk’ to ‘don’t walk’. Chances are you will not have enough time to safely get to the other side of the road. If you are already in the road, continue quickly.
Jaywalkers put themselves in great risk when they decide to cross the street in an inappropriate spot.
When a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle weighing several thousand pounds, even if the vehicle is going at a low speed, chances for serious or catastrophic injury is high – death is also a possibility. If you are hit by a vehicle while cross the street, contact an experienced San Bernardino Personal Injury attorney to discuss your options and possible compensation.
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Summer is here and more people are out walking. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when taking a walk. Always walk on a sidewalk. When one is not available, walk on the left-hand side of the road – facing traffic. Another thing to remember is obey traffic signals. Cross when the signal light is red and get to the other side of the street before the light changes to green. Make sure oncoming traffic can stop safely before you step into the street. Just because pedestrians have the right-of-way, does not mean you can cross the street whenever or wherever you want. If you are walking at night, wear light-colored clothing so you can be seen – such as reflective patches or carry a flashlight.
By following these simple rules, you are bound to have a safe and enjoyable walk – whether it is for exercise or pleasure.
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