Tucson Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Injured In A Bike Accident In Tucson, Az?

If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Tucson, AZ, you are probably feeling overwhelmed. You were already dealing with the physical pain of your injuries when you were suddenly faced with the financial stress of the bills that have now piled up. You might not have known where to turn for help, but you are in luck.

At Suzuki Law Offices, we have handled numerous bicycle accident cases and know what it takes to win. We will work with medical experts to build the strongest case possible and fight to get you the compensation you need to get your life back on track.

Arizona Cycling Laws

Bicyclists are considered vehicle operators in Arizona, and they must obey all traffic laws, including stopping at stop signs and traffic signals, yielding the right-of-way when required, and signaling turns. They are also subject to the same laws regarding alcohol and drugs as drivers of motor vehicles.

Cyclists should generally ride as far to the right as practicable, except when passing, preparing to turn left, avoiding obstacles, or if the lane is too narrow to share safely with a motor vehicle. They should use designated bike lanes or bike shoulders if available, but they are not required to use them.

On the other hand, motorists must provide at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist on the road. Cyclists must yield to pedestrians on crosswalks and sidewalks.

Arizona does not have a statewide helmet law for all ages. However, some cities or local ordinances may require helmet usage for certain age groups.

How Bicycle Accidents Happen

A bicycle accident refers to any incident or collision involving a bicycle and another object, typically a motor vehicle, pedestrian, or another cyclist. These accidents can result in varying degrees of injury to the cyclist and damage to property. Bike accidents involving vehicles are particularly dangerous due to the significant size and speed difference between bicycles and motorized vehicles, making cyclists more vulnerable to severe injuries.

Common causes of bike accidents involving vehicles include:

• Failure to Yield Right-of-Way: Motor vehicle drivers might not yield the right of way to cyclists, especially at intersections or when making turns. This can lead to collisions if the cyclist is not given enough time or space to safely pass.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are engaged in activities such as texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or using GPS are less likely to notice cyclists on the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Dooring: This happens when a parked vehicle’s door is suddenly opened in front of a cyclist’s path, leaving them with little time to react, resulting in a collision with the door.
• Unsafe Passing: When drivers pass too closely to cyclists without leaving a safe distance (usually three feet or more), it can lead to sideswipe accidents, where the vehicle hits the cyclist while overtaking.
• Speeding: Drivers who exceed the speed limit are less likely to spot and avoid potential collisions with cyclists, especially in areas with heavy bike traffic.
• Driving Under the Influence: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment and reaction time, increasing the chances of accidents with cyclists.
• Poor Road Conditions: Uneven road surfaces, potholes, gravel, and debris can cause cyclists to lose control or be thrown off balance when trying to avoid these obstacles.
• Inadequate Bike Lanes or Facilities: The lack of dedicated bike lanes or poorly designed road infrastructure can force cyclists and vehicles to share narrow spaces, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Door-Zone Bike Lanes: Bike lanes placed too close to parked cars can put cyclists in the “door zone,” where they are at risk of being hit by opening car doors.
• Negligence: Sometimes, both drivers and cyclists can be negligent, leading to accidents. Cyclists may not obey traffic laws, and drivers may disregard their responsibility to watch out for cyclists.

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How Our Tucson Bicycle Accident Attorneys Can Help

If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Tucson or the surrounding area, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. You may also be able to recover compensation for damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Suzuki Law Offices, we are dedicated to helping injured cyclists get the justice they deserve. We know how to fight for your rights, and we will do everything in our power to win.

Call or text 602-682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form