Road Sharing Safety In Arizona
May 3, 2018
Whether you drive a car in Arizona, ride a bicycle or motorcycle, or are a pedestrian, you should be aware of the road sharing regulations in place for all modes of transportation and how to handle each when you encounter them. Aside from always practicing due diligence to avoid causing an accident, a driver, motorcyclist, bicyclist, or pedestrian should know and obey all traffic laws. If you follow all regulations and guidelines, you will not be considered at fault if an accident does occur.
Bicycles and Motorcycles
Car drivers often have problems seeing bicycles and motorcycles when they share the road. Remain alert and watch out for these vehicles, particularly at night. When the sun goes down, car drivers should keep their lights dim to avoid blinding cyclists. Drivers should also take into account the smaller size and higher maneuverability of these vehicles. The smaller size of bicycles and motorcycles means they might appear farther away than they really are, and car drivers should always be aware of the possibility of a cyclist changing lanes unexpectedly.
In return, bicyclists and motorcyclists are expected to obey certain traffic conventions. Bicyclists should wear clothing that is easily visible and stay as close to the right side of the road as possible. Bicyclists should also use the appropriate hand signals, particularly to indicate their turns and make certain they do not perform any unnecessary or sudden maneuvers. Motorcyclists should obey all the traffic laws and do their best to signal their intended maneuvers clearly ahead of time, as well.
Approaching a Crosswalk
Drivers need to cede the right of way to pedestrians crossing at crosswalks, even if the light is green. Although vehicles are only required to come to a complete stop when they are at school crossings and when people are actively crossing, drivers are expected to give any pedestrians the right of way – whether they use a crosswalk or not. Special care needs to be taken with pedestrians who are visibly impaired.
Fatal Accidents and Collisions in the US
Motorcyclists and bicyclists are particularly at risk for automobile accidents. In 2013, there were approximately 4,750 motorcyclist, 750 bicyclist, and 4,700 pedestrian fatalities in the United States. Many of these events occurred on routine local trips.
Most of these fatalities occur in collisions with a passenger car or other larger vehicle. Injuries, particularly serious ones, are also likely to result from these accidents. Those injured in an impact between a car and a motorcycle or bicycle, or those who have lost a loved one in a fatal collision, should speak with a skilled attorney or legal team as soon as possible.
Pursuing a Phoenix, AZ Case With Wattel & York
Those who live in Phoenix, AZ and the surrounding area can contact the Phoenix personal injury lawyers at Wattel & York. Our specialists have successfully litigated 13,000 suits and have over 45 years of combined experience to bring to bear on your case. The Wattel & York auto accident attorneys in Phoenix, AZ will work to establish probable cause and determine whether there was any negligence on the part of the other party. We will discuss the case with witnesses, work to establish expert testimonies, and prove whether the damages are consistent with fault.
Wattel & York will also assess and argue for the amount of damages needed to cover your injuries and property losses. In the case of fatalities, we will further analyze the estimated financial impact as well as your pain and suffering. While none of these reparations can take the place of a loved one, we will minimize the financial effect so you can move forward as best as possible. Contact us today to get started on your claim.
Sources:
http://azdot.gov/docs/default-source/mvd-forms-pubs/99-0117.pdf?sfvrsn=23
http://www-fars.nhtsa.dot.gov/Main/index.aspx
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