There are a few motorists who get completely irritated at the look of cyclists on the road since they believe cyclists just have no right to be there. They feel reducing speeds boils down to traffic snarl-ups. Sometimes, these aggressive thoughts transform into actions, leading to bicycle accidents.

The top-rated bicycle accident lawyers are pretty handy in this situation. They work hard to ensure that bicycle accident victims get the compensation they deserve.

According to a recent study conducted by the Florida Department of Transportation and the University of South Florida, cyclists showed more compliance with traffic laws than other motorists. This just shows that the at-fault parties in bicycle accidents are usually other motorists.

This article will examine some critical points bicyclists would want every motorist to consider.

Appreciate Our Vulnerability

A typical bike weighs only 20 pounds, whereas a car weighs almost two tons. In any accident or physical collision between a bicycle and a motorcycle, bicyclists face maximum damage or severe injuries. This scenario has become worse with the inclusion of high-speed roadways with bike lanes.

Know Our Rights

Sometimes, drivers are unaware of the traffic laws relevant to bicyclists. Certain motorists think cyclists can use sidewalks.

In reality, bicycles are regarded as vehicles on public roads.

According to the NHTSA, bicyclists who are 10 years of age and older should ride their bicycles like cars on the street, proceeding in the same direction as other vehicles and obeying all traffic laws.

Thus, cyclists and motorists are on the same level. Hence, motorists must be mindful when turning left or right, going into bicycle lanes, and unlocking doors next to moving traffic.

Bicyclists have the right to share the road with you, so yield to their right of way. The above-mentioned laws and rules hold good in most states in the US.

Mend Your Attitude Toward Us

Motorists are always of the notion that cyclists are “in their way.” This thought is mainly due to the fact that a bicycle is a more basic vehicle and is comparatively smaller, both in terms of looks and weight.

But all that bicyclists expect from motorists is to treat them like equals and give them the “space” to which they are entitled. Bicyclists want other motorists to consider them as human beings and not just objects.

Spare Us the Right Hook

Bicycle accidents at intersections can have pretty serious consequences. Drivers should be cautious around cyclists, particularly while making a right turn. A cyclist may be riding directly ahead of you, a bit to your right or behind. You may end up crashing into a cyclist if you fail to signal your right turn, with the point of contact likely to be on the right side of your vehicle. Look for a close cyclist’s raised left hand in a squared stance or their extended right hand to determine their path.

Follow the 3-Feet Law

More than 20 states have enacted legislation mandating that drivers give bicycles 3 feet of space on the road. Drivers benefit from the 3-foot rule because it provides a solid frame of reference.

In addition to maintaining the clearance space, motorists should give room to allow bicyclists to move smoothly and slowly.

Accept Us

Bicycling is on the upward curve more than ever, thanks to people’s motivation to stay fit, promote a greener way of life, and cut down on commuting expenses. But riding a bicycle comes with its fair share of risks. Even if the bicyclist follows all the rules, a distracted driver may cause damage, severely hurting the bicyclist.

A good understanding between bicyclists and other motorists is essential for smoother traffic movement and accident-free roads.