A Tennessee cyclist got struck by a hit-and-run driver in an SUV while he was riding on Natchez Trace Parkway. Fortunately, the man did not get any life-threatening injuries although he did get hurt in the crash. The driver of the SUV got charged with failing to immediately notify of an accident, failure to render aid, leaving the scene of an accident, and reckless endangerment. Additional federal charges might also get brought against the driver if authorities decide to do so.
Many cyclists enjoy riding on the Natchez Trace Parkway because it is a designated bike route. The man who got hit was riding with a friend near the north end of the Parkway when the collision occurred. The man who did not get hit was wearing a camera and caught the entire, scary incident on video, which he provided to authorities so they could use it in their investigation.
Traffic laws for bicycle riders vary from state to state. Both drivers and cyclists should know the rules of the road in the states where they will be riding or driving so they know what it means in that state to “share the road.” The aforementioned collision happened in Mississippi, where bicyclists are allowed to use the full lane of traffic to ride in when that is necessary. Federal regulations require bicyclists to ride single file. People who ride bicycles should, whenever possible, move to the right to let motor vehicles pass.
The man who got hit by an SUV in the crash above is fortunate that he did not receive more serious injuries. Accidents involving motor vehicles that hit cyclists often leave the cyclist dead or with life-threatening injuries. Cyclists and motorists are allowed to use the same roads, so it is imperative that they learn how to share the roads with each other safely.
The single most important thing that drivers can do to avoid hitting a cyclist with their vehicle is to be aware of their surroundings. There are several ways that drivers can increase their awareness of what is going on around them. For example, obeying the posted speed limit gives a driver time to see what is around them, which can help them to avoid collisions with cyclists, animals, other vehicles, and objects. Also, avoiding cell phone use and other distractions helps a driver to keep their focus on what is happening around their vehicle instead of inside it. Passing safely also helps reduce the risk of a collision. If you are driving and you come upon a cyclist that you want to pass, make your pass slowly while allowing at least three feet of space between them and your vehicle as you pass.
Cyclists can share the road safely by making themselves visible and following the rules of the road. Wearing brightly colored clothing is a good idea during both daytime and evening hours, as is mounting lights on both the front and rear of your bike. Rear view mirrors designed for cyclists can help you see vehicles that are approaching you from behind. If you are riding with a group, ride single file. Always wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet to reduce the risk of injury from a fall and increase your chance of survival in a collision.
Barrett Law PLLC: Caring Assistance for Mississippi Cycling Accident Victims
The Mississippi Personal Injury Attorneys of Barrett Law PLLC have helped many plaintiffs and their families pursue claims for damages or losses in connection with accidents of all kinds. Call our office today, at 1 (800) 707-9577 to schedule a free, initial consultation.