What Happens When You Hit a Cyclist?
Drivers should always exercise caution when behind the wheel, and especially so when bicycle riders are nearby. Cyclists have the same responsibility, more so when they are riding on roads with regular traffic. It can be difficult for cyclists to see your vehicle, and vice versa, so what happens if you accidentally hit a bicycle rider in Maryland?
Steps to Take After Your Accident with a Cyclist
If you are involved in an accident with a cyclist, you must first tend to any injuries of your own and the person riding the bicycle. If you are not injured, it’s important to:
- Get out of your car and check on the rider to see if they are injured.
- Call emergency services for them if they cannot do so themselves.
- Give your account of what happened before, during, and after the accident to the police.
- Exchange insurance information with the cyclist if they are still on the scene and do not need emergency medical attention.
Establishing Liability & Recovering Damages
The cyclist involved in your accident will likely pursue compensation for the accident in a situation where the accident was not due solely to their negligence. They might try to recover damages that resulted from the accident, including personal injury or bicycle repair/replacement. Damage may have also been done to your vehicle or the vehicle’s occupants, and you may ask to receive compensation for those as well.
The police report with the accounts of those involved in the accident, plus any witnesses or bystanders of the accident, will be helpful in determining liability. In some cases, you may have to go to court in order to recover damages. Your best solution is hiring Maryland personal injury attorney Ross W. Albers to help you get the compensation you rightly deserve after your accident.
How to Avoid Accidents with Cyclists
The following tips for safe driving can help you avoid accidents with bicycle riders in Maryland:
- Always expect cyclists on the road, even if you don’t see them often.
- If you pass a cyclist, keep at least three feet of distance between the rider and your vehicle.
- Yield the right-of-way to the person on the bicycle when making a right turn.
- Check each mirror and your blind spots when exiting a driveway or parking space.
- Keep a safe following distance.
- Stay alert, avoid distractions, and keep your eyes on the road.
Legal Assistance for Maryland Cyclist Accidents
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a cyclist, call us today at Albers & Associates. We have many years of experience in personal injury law and can help you get the compensation you deserve when involved in any sort of accident in Maryland. Reach out to our expert attorneys today to schedule your free legal consultation.