As most know, bicycling is a great form of exercise and can help promote a healthier population. Whether cycling for pleasure or cycling to commute, it is an activity enjoyed by many. But on the roadways, motorists do not often provide cyclists the safe area to travel to which they are entitled. In fact, and unfortunately, many motorists fail to realize they share the roadway with a cyclist.
Cycling Injury Statistics
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Authority, in 2011, more than 48,000 cyclists were injured on roadways, including a count of 677 fatalities. Of this number, there were 43 fatalities in the state of Texas alone. Though many may assume these injuries were predominantly children, the average age of a person injured in a cycling accident is 30, with the average age of a fatally injured cyclist sitting at 40 years old.
According to a 2008 survey conducted by the University of Texas at Austin, 72% of respondents classified cycling as very dangerous to somewhat dangerous. Many of these responses came from Texas’s larger metropolitan areas, including Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio.
Despite the increase in bike lanes in these areas, however, 72% of cyclist commuters reported traveling on an unsigned road during a portion of their commute. These unmarked areas are often where cycling accidents take place.
Sharing the Road with Motorists
Most people don’t realize this fact, but cyclists have the same rights and duties as a motorist on roadways in Texas. They are to travel with the flow of traffic, use a bike lane when available, use hand signals when stopping or turning, and are required stay as far practicable to the right side of the road. There are only a few exceptions to this rule:
- When making a left hand turn to another roadway or driveway
- When conditions on the right side of the road are hazardous or otherwise unsafe
- When passing a vehicle
- When the road lane is of substandard width
Motorists are generally required to provide the cyclist at least three feet of space when passing and must slow down if a cyclist in front of them is making a left hand turn. On the other hand, cyclists are required to have a headlight on the front of their bike that provides visibility to 500 feet. They are also required to have a red or orange reflector on the rear of their bike. Cyclists are also always encouraged to wear proper helmets and reflective clothing, even when cycling during daylight hours.
The End of Cycling Accidents
Until more motorists begin to understand that cyclists share the road with them, bike wrecks and cyclist car accident injuries will continue to occur.
The Law Offices of David Kohm is an Arlington accident attorney injured cyclists can count on. If you are ever injured due to the negligence of a motorist, you are encouraged to contact our office at 817-204-0900 for a case evaluation and an explanation of your rights under Texas law.
