Bicycling is a great form of exercise and a cheap way to get around, but it also comes with risks, especially when sharing the road with cars. Bicycle accident laws in North Carolina are designed to protect the safety of bicyclists and ensure that they receive fair compensation in case of an accident. This article will discuss the bicycle accident laws in North Carolina and what you should do in case of an accident.
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Laws and regulations for bicyclists
Bicyclists in North Carolina are subject to the same road laws as drivers of motor vehicles. This means that they must obey traffic signals and signs, ride in the same direction as traffic, and use hand signals before turning or changing lanes. Bicyclists are also required to use headlights and taillights at night and wear helmets if they are under 16 years old.
Bike lanes
North Carolina law requires drivers to give at least 4 feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist on the road. If there is a bike lane, drivers are required to use it when passing a bicyclist. Bicyclists are also required to use bike lanes when they are provided, except when making a left turn, passing another rider, or avoiding an obstacle.
What to do in case of an accident
If you are involved in a bicycle accident in North Carolina, the first thing you should do is make sure that you and anyone else involved are safe and get medical attention if needed. Then, follow these steps:
Call the police: The police will document the accident and file a report. This report can be valuable evidence in case of a legal dispute.
Exchange information: Get the name, phone number, and insurance information of the driver involved in the accident. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information as well.
Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, the damage to the vehicles involved, and any injuries.
Contact your insurance company: Your insurance company may offer coverage for your medical expenses and property damage.
Contact a lawyer: If you were injured or your property was damaged in the accident, you may want to consult with a lawyer who specializes in bicycle accident cases.
Compensation for bicycle accidents
If you were injured in a bicycle accident in North Carolina, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To receive compensation, you will need to file a claim with the driver’s insurance company or file a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to pay.
Contributory negligence
It is important to note that North Carolina has a strict contributory negligence law, which means that if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may not be able to receive any compensation. This can make it difficult to receive compensation for bicycle accidents, so it is important to follow all traffic laws and ride defensively.
Conclusion
Bicycling can be a fun and healthy way to get around, but accidents can happen. Understanding bicycle accident laws in North Carolina and following safety precautions can help reduce the risk of accidents. If you are involved in a bicycle accident, staying calm and following the steps outlined above can help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.