Springtime is an exciting time for cyclists and motorcyclists to hit the roads and explore their passions. But it’s also a time when drivers should be extra mindful of these two-wheeled travelers sharing our roads. Whether you’re navigating a busy city street or driving through the countryside, following safety guidelines can help everyone enjoy the roads safely.
Why are There More Cyclists in the Spring?
Springtime is an ideal time for motorcyclists and cyclists to take to the road. The days are longer, with more daylight, and the weather is warmer. This makes it easier to stay out all day, travel longer distances, and explore areas that were otherwise inaccessible during the cold winter months. With more people choosing two-wheeled vehicles as a means of transportation or recreation, it’s no surprise that the roads become busier in spring compared to other seasons.
Share the Road with Everyone This Spring
As a motorist, it’s important to safely share the road with cyclists and motorcyclists in the springtime to ensure everyone’s safety. Motorcyclists and cyclists are much smaller than cars, so they can be harder to spot. This makes them susceptible to crashes and other risky situations if motorists aren’t paying attention. Additionally, cyclists and motorcyclists don’t have the same protection as drivers in larger cars, so any kind of collision could potentially cause serious injury or even death. By following safe driving practices, we can all enjoy the roads safely during the year’s freshest season.
How to Safely Share the Road with Spring Cyclists
A few road-sharing safety tips for all spring drivers, cyclists, and motorcyclists include:
- Drivers should always be alert and aware of cyclists and motorcyclists on the road. Keep an eye out for smaller vehicles in your mirrors and blind spots and give them ample space when passing or turning.
- Cyclists and motorcyclists should stay in their lanes and use proper hand signals when turning if their vehicles are not equipped with turn signals. They should also yield to other vehicles as needed.
- All drivers, cyclists, and motorcyclists should follow all traffic laws, including speed limits, stop signs, turn signals, etc.
- All road users should try to maintain a safe distance from one another to avoid potential collisions.
- Cyclists should use designated bike lanes where available.
- Motorcyclists should take an annual rider’s safety training course each spring, which acts as a refresher for the proper way to safely handle a motorcycle when in busy traffic.
Let a Lawyer Help If There’s a Crash
No matter much you plan to stay safe and share the road with others this spring, you never can know when others won’t do the same. Accidents can happen, and it can be confusing to know who is to blame: a motorist, a cyclist, or a motorcyclist.
An attorney can help figure out who is liable in a crash involving a motorist and a cyclist or motorcyclist by carefully examining the circumstances of the incident and applicable laws. They can look into factors such as who had the right of way at the time of the accident, any traffic violations that may have occurred, and other details to determine if either party was negligent or not. Additionally, an attorney can provide legal guidance throughout the process and help their client pursue a fair settlement or award.
The Law Offices of Ron Sholes, P.A. offers comprehensive legal counsel and representation to injured motorists, motorcyclists, and cyclists throughout Florida and across all four seasons. If you were in an accident and think someone else’s mistakes caused it, then please call (855) 933-3881 to speak with an attorney from our firm.