Bicycle riding offers a number of benefits including a faster commute time and improved health. Unfortunately, bicycle riders in Ohio must also face the risk of accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that approximately 700 individuals are killed each year in the United States due to bicycle accidents and that 50,000 individuals are injured in these accidents. The number might even be much higher because law enforcement does not document every bicycle accident. If you are injured in a bicycle accident, contact our experienced bicycle accident lawyers in Hamilton, OH who can make sure that you obtain the compensation that you deserve.
Ohio Law Regarding Bicycle Accidents
Ohio Revised Code section 4501.01 defines bicycles as a type of vehicle, which means that bicyclists in the state are required to follow all traffic signals. These regulations include the following:
Bicyclists are prohibited from carrying bundles, passengers, and packages that keep them from keeping at least one hand on their bicycle’s handlebars.
Bicyclists are required to ride on as far right on the road as is safe to do.
Bicyclists must exercise due care when passing vehicles that are either proceeding in the same direction or stopped.
Bicyclists who use their bicycles when it is dark outside must make sure that their bicycles are equipped with white front lamps that are visible from 500 feet.
Red reflectors must be placed on the rear of a bicycle and be visible between 100 to 600 feet when directly in front of a motor vehicle’s lights. A red rear lamp must also be on a bicycle and visible from a distance of 500 feet or a sound making device that can be heard from 100 feet.
Bicyclists in Ohio are not required to wear helmets.
The Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Hamilton, Ohio
A large number of bicycle accidents in Hamilton, Ohio are caused by motor vehicle operators who fail to drive their vehicles in a safe manner. Some of the ways in which bicyclists can be harmed in vehicle accidents include:
“Dooring” accidents occur when doors are thrown open in front of bicyclists.
Driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Failure to check a vehicle’s blind spots while changing lanes.
Failure to come to a complete stop at a stop sign.
Failure to yield to a bicyclist when it is appropriate.
Making turns suddenly in front of a bicyclist.
Pulling out of driveways or parked positions without looking.
Sideswiping bicyclists who are traveling on the shoulder of the road.
Vehicle operators who drive too aggressively or too fast.
Vehicle operators who step on the gas rather than the brakes.
Speak with Our Skilled Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Hamilton
Bicycle accidents have the potential to result in serious injuries that can change a person’s life. By obtaining the assistance of our personal injury lawyers at Kruger & Hodges, you can rest assured you will no be taken advantage of by the insurance companies. Contact our firm today to schedule an initial free consultation. We are located in Hamilton, Ohio, a short walk from the Butler County Courthouse.
