Archive for the ‘Bicycle Accidents’ Category

Common Defenses Pertaining To Bicycle Related Accidents

Tuesday, October 2nd, 2012

Accidents are a common aspect of our life whether they are small, or large. When faced with an accident we have to deal not only with the cause, but also the effect, which ranges from simple to severe. When it comes down to bicycle related automobile accidents what type of accident are you actually dealing with, and what consequences can you expect?

Today, bicycle accidents are actually becoming more and more common. A study by the National Highway Traffic Administration in 2009 showed that out of all bicycling accidents that took place 630 cyclists died, and 51,000 were injured. Yet, when you’re involved in a bicycle related automobile accident what are some defense methods you should consider?

Speeding Here, or Speeding There?

One common defense that many individuals use when they are involved in a bicycle related automobile accident is that of speeding, not by the vehicle operator, but by the cyclists. Usually, many are under the presumption that motor vehicle drivers are the true individuals on the road speeding, which many times are. However, that does not also mean cyclists are not as well. Many times when a bicycle related automobile accident occurs cyclists are actually the ones that are going much faster than they really need to, and cannot properly control their bike.

Can Cyclists Distinguish Your Lane From Theirs?

Another defense is that of cyclists riding in the wrong lane. Today, many highways, roads, and bridges are now equipped with lanes designed, and designated specifically for bicyclists, and pedestrians that are either walking, jogging, or running. Unfortunately, many cyclists do not partake in using these lanes that are not only designed for the soul purpose of an individual not traveling in a motor vehicle, but also for that of their safety. Many cyclists weave in and out of lanes when cycling on the road, and even end up in the opposing traffic lane many times. One can easily see how the potential for accidents is greatly increased by possible reckless driving patterns of some cyclists.

The majority of the time motor vehicle operators tend to stay far away from bicyclists in order to avoid the potential of accident taking place. Many behavioral studies show that show cyclists tend to get jittery, and not focus on the road, but on other vehicles when they are riding close automobiles. Remember, no matter what method of transportation you choose make safety your first priority every time.

Automobile accidents occur due to all aspects of the road whether they are contributed to by distracted driving, driving under the influence, or driver negligence. When you are involved in an automobile accident you may be entitled to damages for either an injury sustained, automobile damage, or if a death occur. In order to properly fight for your rights, and your case our experienced automobile accident attorneys are there to help you like they have with many people, and their cases in the past.  At the Nahon Firm, PLC, we will fight to help you obtain the financial compensation you need to rebuild your life. We invite you to call us today and speak with a Nashville automobile accident attorney to discuss the details of your case at (615) 324-2000.

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New Tennessee Law Toughens Up Against Drivers Who Strike Bicyclists and Pedestrians

Thursday, November 17th, 2011

According to the Knoxville News Sentinel, Tennessee drivers who crash into pedestrians and bicyclists will face stiffer penalties after a new law goes into effect on Friday July 1, 2011.  Currently, drivers who strike a bicyclist or pedestrian face a Class C misdemeanor that carries up to a $50 fine and 30 days in jail.  Under the new law, drivers who cause crashes resulting in serious injuries could face up to six months in jail, revocation of their driver’s licenses for up to six months, and a $250 fine. Bike Walk Tennessee, a statewide advocacy group upset with drivers facing “paltry charges” after killing bicyclists and pedestrians in crashes, began drafting the law in February 2011.

As the weather warms up, more Memphis and Tennessee residents begin to walk outside and ride their bicycles.  Memphians may ride bicycles to travel to and from work, run errands, or exercise.  Many streets have special lanes to give bicycle riders, walkers, and joggers room to ride, walk, or jog safely on the street.  Therefore, it is important for vehicle drivers to be mindful of bicyclists and pedestrians and exercise caution when driving alongside them.  Unfortunately, however, many drivers do not exercise necessary caution.

At the Nahon Firm, PLC, we will fight to help you win. Our Nashville personal injury attorneys will treat you with the utmost compassion and respect.  You can count on compassion, dedication, and determination towards your case.  Call us today and speak with a Nashville accident lawyer to discuss the details of your case. Call (615) 324-2000.

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Nashville Tennessee Resident Edwin Gardner Cleared in Bicycle-SUV Collision

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

The late Edwin Gardner, formerly of Nashville, has been cleared of blame in the collision in which he was bicycling and was struck last month by an SUV in Charleston, S.C., police say. Gardner, a long-time bicycler and bicycling advocate, had been listed as the cause of the July 21 collision in the original Charleston Police Department report.

An outcry from the bicycling community had brought additional scrutiny after the wreck that resulted in his death. Police say the first report had been made with limited information and that the department’s Fatal Collision Team has now examined the scene, the vehicle and the bicycle.

Charlotte White, 21, of Sumter, S.C., the driver of the Jeep Cherokee, was re-interviewed along with an original witness. Several other witnesses were also located and talked with.

“After careful consideration of the additional evidence obtained, the facts now reveal that Mr. Gardner was in fact not a contributor to this collision,” a press release from the Charleston Police Department says.

White will be charged with “following too closely,” it says. Bicyclists in South Carolina and elsewhere have advocated for years for officials not to determine fault before interviewing the bicycler or carefully evaluating a scene in terms of a bicycler’s rights to the road.

The situation involving Gardner focused new attention on the topic.

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