Bicycling Accidents on the Road

Bicycling is a great way to get around town for leisure riding, exercise, or everyday commuting. As with all modes of transportation, there are risks to riding a bicycle, particularly on the road where you must negotiate through high volumes of traffic. Road accidents can lead to serious injuries for the bicyclist.

In bicycle accidents where another party is involved, someone may be liable for your injuries and you may be entitled to compensation. The Racine personal injury lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C., are experienced in traffic accident cases and can put our experience to work for you. Contact our offices today at 1-800-242-2874.

Bicycling Precautions and Rules of the Road

According to Wisconsin law, bicycles are vehicles and must be treated as such on the road. Vehicle status means that bicycles have certain rights on the road, and certain responsibilities as well. Heeding the following recommendations can help to prevent a bicycling accident:

• Use Hand Signals. Bicyclists are required by Wisconsin law to signal when turning, slowing, or stopping. Signaling alerts other vehicles around you that you are planning to change direction or pace.
• Follow the direction of traffic flow. Do not ride on the wrong side of the street.
• Keep a three foot distance. Keeping at least a three foot distance between your bicycle and the curb or other obstructions that you pass prevents you from having to swerve unpredictably.
• Use a light. Riding with a back light at night is required under Wisconsin law. A front light is also recommended so that you can see ahead and other drivers can see you.
• Abide by all traffic laws. If you are riding lawfully you have a lower risk of being in an accident.

What to Do in the Case of a Bicycling Accident

Even if you follow all laws and precautions, you may still find yourself involved in a traffic collision. Negligent and overly aggressive drivers pose especially high risks for bicyclists. If you have a traffic accident, remember that you have the same rights as other drivers. In any accident be sure to take these important actions:

• Call the police and have them create an accident report.
• Write down the driver's name, insurance and contact information, and a description of the vehicle.
• Get the names and contact information of any witnesses of the accident.
• Be sure to receive any necessary medical assistance.
• Take photographs of the scene of the accident and the vehicles involved.
• Contact a personal injury lawyer immediately.

Contact Us Today

If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for injuries and damages. To help you defend your rights, contact the Racine bicycle accident lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C. at 1-800-242-2874.