Billerica Bicycle Accident Attorney

Bicycle accidents may be caused by hazards such as gravel, debris, potholes, or obstacles that don’t belong in the road. Bicycle riders can also be harmed by other cyclists who make dangerous maneuvers or pedestrians that get in your way. But the greatest threat to a bike rider’s safety are unsafe drivers.

Even when you’re traveling in a bike lane, careless drivers can intrude into your space and cause accidents. Unsafe driver behavior that that puts you at risk includes:

• Dangerous passing. Drivers in Massachusetts are required to give bicycle riders three feet of room when passing, and if the road is too narrow, the driver must slow down and wait for an opportunity to pass safely.
• Sideswipes. Drivers must be aware of their blind spots and take necessary precautions to make sure the lane is empty before merging or changing lanes.
• Tailgating. Drivers should monitor the amount of space in front of their vehicle and make sure they have enough stopping time.
• Dooring. When drivers and driver-side passengers fail to look behind them before exiting the vehicle, it can cause serious bicycle crashes.
• Unsafe turns. Drivers should always be alert for bicycles when making a left turn and check to make sure that crosswalks and bike lanes are empty before making a right turn.
• Speeding dramatically reduces a driver’s reaction time and makes accidents much more lethal when they occur.
• Running a red light or stop sign. Bicyclists are totally vulnerable to these unexpected drivers who are likely to hit bikes at high impact.
• DUI. Drugs and alcohol impair a driver’s vison, judgments, reaction time, and coordination. People who are under the influence should not operate a motor vehicle under any circumstances.
• Distracted driving. Texting or talking on a handheld device while driving is illegal in Massachusetts. Other activities such as talking, eating, checking GPS, or reaching for an object inside the cabin can all result in serious accidents.