As a general rule, cyclists in Pennsylvania are allowed to ride on public roads. Therefore, as a motorist, it’s important to take steps to ensure that you peacefully coexist with these bicycle riders.
Slow down when you see someone riding a bike
While some cyclists can ride fast enough to keep pace with traffic, this isn’t always true. Ideally, you will keep pace with the person on his or her bike to minimize the risk of a collision. Furthermore, you should not attempt to pass a rider even if it seems like there is sufficient room to do so. Do not honk your horn, yell or otherwise act in an aggressive manner toward those on their bikes as it could scare them and cause them to fall.
Eliminate distractions
If you’re driving in an area that sees frequent pedestrian traffic, you need to be fully aware of what is going on around your vehicle. You can’t be aware of your surroundings if you’re using your cellphone, talking to a passenger or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Ideally, you will constantly scan for signs of bicyclists or other pedestrians who may cross your path as doing so can minimize your risk of causing a car accident.
An individual who is injured in a car accident may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and other damages if the person who caused the crash acted in a negligent manner. Examples of negligent behavior may include using a cellphone while driving, driving too fast for road conditions or operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of a controlled substance.
