Traffic Laws for Bicyclists in Philadelphia

Bicyclists in Philadelphia share many of the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. There are also numerous specific traffic laws for bicyclists in Philadelphia.

If you were riding your bicycle and were injured by a reckless motorist in a crash, you may need to speak with an attorney about your legal rights. A bicycle accident attorney could investigate the details of your accident and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

Important Bicyclist Traffic Laws

The state imposes numerous important traffic laws that Philadelphia bicyclists must adhere to. These requirements include the following:

• Children under the age of 12 must wear a helmet, but it is still recommended that all cyclists wear helmets
• Bicycles must have a front white light and a rear red reflector that is visible from 500 feet away.
• Bicyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic, except on streets with contraflow or two-way bike lanes.
• Bicyclists can ride on the shoulder of the road, in a bike lane, or on the right side of the roadway.
• Bicyclists are forbidden from riding on sidewalks in business districts unless permitted by traffic controls
• Only people over the age of 16 can use e-bikes

Motorists also have specific laws they must observe when navigating roadways around bicyclists. For example, drivers must not cross the path of a moving cyclist. Drivers are also required to wait to open their car door until it is safe and doing so does not interfere with oncoming traffic.

Bicycle accidents often happen because of a distracted or otherwise negligent driver. Drivers who are distracted by their phone or navigation system, speed, fail to yield, or drive aggressively frequently cause dangerous and deadly bicycle accidents.

What to Do After a Serious Bicycle Accident

While wearing a helmet and following all applicable laws can reduce injury risk, bicyclists in Philadelphia could still suffer catastrophic injuries when they encounter a negligent driver due to the size and weight of a regular passenger vehicle. After a bicycle accident with a car, you should immediately call 911 if police do not arrive at the scene. If possible, obtain the driver’s auto insurance and take photos of the accident scene, including damage to your bike.

Assess your injuries and be sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you are hurt. If you suspect serious injuries, wait for emergency services to arrive, and do not move unless necessary. Once you have received medical treatment, consider consulting a lawyer to discuss your legal options. Avoid discussing who is at fault for the accident with the other driver or their insurance company, and do not repair or dispose of any damaged bike parts that may be relevant to your case. If you were involved in a serious traffic accident while riding your bike, an attorney could help protect your legal right to compensation.

A Philadelphia Bike Accident Attorney Could Help When A Negligent Driver Breaks Traffic Laws

You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after being involved in a serious crash. An attorney could evaluate your legal options, given the facts involved, and explain how to proceed with a claim. You could be entitled to numerous forms of compensation for your injuries, including the cost of your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

An experienced lawyer understands the traffic laws for bicyclists in Philadelphia and could help you navigate the claims process. Call now to speak with an attorney about your potential case in a one-on-one free consultation.