If you ride a bicycle to exercise and reduce your carbon footprint, there are specific Michigan state laws concerning cyclist and driver road rights. As any Flint accident lawyerwill tell you, the laws are designed to ensure cars and bicycles can safely share the roads and are not intended to be burdensome regulations.
Bicycle Crashes are Mostly Avoidable
Bicycle crashes happen more frequently than you may realize and can cause severe trauma or death. They are called crashes instead of accidents because most bicycle-vehicle incidents are avoidable. Ask any Flint accident lawyerabout common causes of bicycle crashes, and you will learn many are due to the vehicle drivers being distracted for some reason, perhaps texting, or the driver does not know the laws concerning road sharing with bicycles. For example, a driver is required to stay at least three feet away when passing a bicyclist.
The bicyclist is the most vulnerable when on the road. In 2021, 1,260 bicyclists were involved in motor vehicle crashes in Michigan, and each year approximately 25 bicyclists die across the state.
Know Your Rights
If you are involved in a bicycle crash, it is important to know your cycling rights. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. To fully protect your rights, consult an experienced Flint accident attorney who will guide you through the complex legal system. The process in Michigan includes determining fault, negotiating with insurance companies, and proving damages in court. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, acting quickly and seeking legal help as soon as possible is important.
