Bicycle Accident Lawyer Columbia, SC
If you have been hurt in a bicycle accident, you may want to consult a Columbia, SC bicycle accident attorney. You may be entitled to compensation. A skilled lawyer can help you file a timely claim and protect your legal rights.
Common Misconceptions About Bicycle Accidents
Riding a bicycle can provide great exercise and is good for the environment. However, if the proper precautions are not taken, bicycle accidents can occur. Here are some common misconceptions about bicycle accidents.
-
It Is Safer To Ride A Bicycle On The Sidewalk Than The Road
Some bicyclists may get intimidated by sharing the road with vehicles and decide to ride on the sidewalk. However, riding on the sidewalk can actually be more dangerous than riding on the street. Motorists don’t expect to see bicyclists on the sidewalk and may not look for them when backing out of their driveways.
-
Bicyclists Don’t Have To Follow The Same Traffic Laws As Motorists
This is not true. Bicyclists are actually required by law to obey the same traffic laws as other motorists. This includes stopping at red lights and stop signs, making the proper turn signals and riding in the same direction as traffic. If they fail to follow these traffic rules, they may be considered at least partially at-fault in an accident.
-
Bicyclists Frequently Cause Bicycle Accidents
Although bicyclists can sometimes cause bicycle accidents, it is motorists who cause the majority of them. As a Columbia bicycle accident attorney can confirm, many bicycle accidents are caused by distracted motorists or motorists who don’t yield to bicyclists.
-
Bicycles Don’t Require Lights At Night
South Carolina law actually requires bicyclists to have front white lights and red rear reflectors when riding at night. These lights can make bicyclists more visible and reduce the risk of accidents.
-
Wearing A Helmet Can Prevent Head Injuries
If you get into a bicycle accident, you can still suffer head injuries with a helmet. However, that does not mean you should not wear one. A bicycle helmet can lessen the severity of the head injuries you sustain in an accident.
-
A Car Has To Directly Hit A Bicycle To Be Held Liable
This is another common myth about bicycle accidents. The truth is that a car does not have to make contact with a bicycle to incur liability. For instance, if a car swerves all over the road and forces a bicyclist to take quick action and crash, the driver could still be held responsible.
Consulting a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you were hurt in a bicycle accident caused by another motorist, you deserve justice. It is important to discuss your case with an experienced lawyer promptly. A lawyer will know the true value of your case and help you go after the compensation you deserve. He or she will handle negotiations with the insurance company.
Schedule a consultation with a Columbia bicycle accident attorney from Woron and Dhillon, LLC today to learn what is the next action you need to take for your case.
Contact Us Today
New Clients: (803) 676-1900Existing Clients: (803) 626-1345