Being behind the wheel of a heavy, powerful vehicle, can cause drivers to forget to pay attention to those sharing the roadways with them. Numerous accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists with motor vehicles occur each year. These types of accidents are often devastating to those unprotected by sheet metal.
Pedestrian Accidents
Accidents between pedestrians and vehicles often occur due to one of two reasons: inadequate access to proper sidewalks and/or failure to follow traffic laws (both on the part of drivers and the pedestrians). Pedestrians often don’t have adequate sidewalks to walk on and others fail to obey traffic signals. By doing so, not only are they putting themselves and others at risk, but they can also be found at fault for the accident.
Pedestrians are also at a disadvantage in terms of their recovery from an accident. Since they typically have nothing to protect them from the impact, higher hospital bills are often incurred. As a result, the help of an experienced Tennessee car accident attorney is even more important.
Bicycle Accidents
Bicyclists can be involved in accidents with cars most often when they pass vehicles stopped on the road or at intersections. Intersections are dangerous because drivers and cyclists alike can fail to abide the right of way rule.
What’s more, failure of bicyclists to wear helmets increases the likelihood of injury. While Tennessee law does not require bicyclists over 16 to wear a helmet when riding, it is highly recommended to do so for you own safety.
Do I really need an attorney?
If a pedestrian or a bicyclist is involved in an accident with a motor vehicle, they should promptly contact an attorney. One reason is that it can be difficult to determine fault in these types of accidents. Attorneys can also help you to discuss coverage options with your insurance company and ensure that you receive the financial support you need to get back on your feet.
Tennessee car accident attorneys at Gilreath & Associates can help you with the complex legalities that are involved with accidents involving a motor vehicle and a pedestrian and/or a bicyclist. Visit our legal knowledge center to learn more about sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists, or give us a call to discuss your case today.
