Bicyclists are Entitled to the Same Rights as Motorists

More and more people in Salt Lake City are riding bikes in an effort to curb greenhouse gasses and make commuting easier by taking advantage of bike-friendly routes throughout the city. Whether you’re a bicycle commuter or you regularly enjoy biking as a pastime, remember “bicyclists are considered drivers of vehicles and therefore have the same rights to the road as motorists,” says bicycledriving.org. 

In Utah, bicycles are expected to follow all local traffic laws. Although the city entitles riders to the same rights as motorists on roadways, an auto accident involving a bicyclist is not uncommon and may warrant the assistance of a lawyer.

As a Salt Lake City bicyclist, it is important to know your rights, use common sense and keep safety your top priority.  “Competent cyclists politely cooperate with other drivers by yielding when required, choosing the correct lane at intersections, using lights at night and otherwise following the same traffic laws as motorists,” says bicycledriving.org. 

Motorists should respect your rights as a bicyclists as well. A motorist should share the road with bicyclists, should never harass a fellow driver or rider and should not cut off bikers. If you believe your rights as a bicyclist are not being protected on your roadways, consulting with a lawyer may be a good idea. 

An auto accident is more likely to happen with inexperienced riders or bicyclists who do not respect traffic laws. It is important to be aware of the specific laws within your area to ensure your safety and the safety of others. 

To avoid an auto accident and the need for a lawyer when riding in Salt Lake City, the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) notes that bicyclists “must ride with the flow of traffic, occupy turn lanes, obey traffic signals and lights, yield to pedestrians, use bike lanes when possible and keep one hand on the bike at all times.” 

However, it isn’t unusual for an auto accident involving bicyclists to happen. If you’re involved in an incident with another motorist in Salt Lake City, UDOT says “avoid a confrontation…know your rights, ride legally and stay calm in all situations. If a motorist intentionally jeopardizes your safety, note his description and memorize the car’s license plate and description.”

Despite the fact that bicycle riders are more vulnerable to bodily harm or injury during accidents, not all jurisdictions or courts protect bicyclists. If you’re involved in a bicycle accident contact your local authorities and emergency responders, then consider calling a lawyer to get the help you need. 

Nicole Donaldson is a legal writer for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Robert J Debry. Follow on Twitter.