Most collisions between bicycles and motor vehicles occur in urban areas, and a good number of them occur at intersections. Both bikes and motor vehicles must follow the rules of the road, including those that govern intersections. Particular rules of the road apply to different types of intersections. Nonetheless, drivers often fail to observe these rules, which can result in catastrophe for the bicyclists, who have little to protect them from the impact of a much larger, heavier, and faster motor vehicle. These facts make intersections one of the riskiest places for a bicycle accident to occur.

In some cases, the driver will stop at a stop sign or red light and then proceed into the intersection, striking a bicyclist who has the right of way. Alternately, the driver will fail to stop altogether, which has the same result. In either case, a bicyclist who has no stop sign or red light, or who has entered the intersection after stopping, has the right-of-way, and the driver would be at fault for the accident. The driver’s failure to yield thus causes the collision with the bicyclist.

Another type of intersection accident may occur when a motorist and bicyclist both enter an intersection, and the driver turns left, causing the vehicle to strike the bicyclist. The driver may not see the bicyclist, may misjudge the speed of the bike or may fail to use a turn signal, thus causing a collision. In each of these cases, the driver likely would be liable for the injuries and property damage from the accident.

Turning right at an intersection also can cause a motorist to collide with a bike – often called a “right hook” collision. For instance, if a motorist passes a bicycle and then attempts to turn right, he or she may cut off the bicyclist and cause a collision. Even if both the bicyclist and the driver are waiting at a light, if the driver tries to execute a right turn at the intersection quickly, he or she is likely to strike the bicyclist, who may not realize that the driver intends to turn.

When you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you need an attorney who can stand up for your interests from the outset of your personal injury claim, and knows bikes. It is our goal to evaluate the facts and assess your potential claim. This step will allow you to explore your options and help you build the most substantial claim for compensation possible. Do not hesitate to contact Bonnici Law Group at 858-261-5454 today and set up an appointment to speak with us soon.