Drivers and cyclists don’t always see eye to eye on the road, and honestly, it can feel a little tense sometimes. Both groups have to share the same space, and that’s not always easy. But one thing we can all agree on is that safety comes first. Whether you’re in a car or on a bike, staying safe is the goal.
A lot of people use bikes to get around, especially in cities. It’s good for the environment and helps with things like traffic and parking. But with more bikes on the road, accidents happen more often.
Some of the stuff drivers do can put cyclists in real danger. And if an accident does happen, bicycle accident lawyers can help make sure the right thing is done.
Things Motorists Do that Endanger the Lives of Cyclists
Here are some of the actions of motorists that put the lives of cyclists in danger:
Passing Too Close
It’s actually the law in many places that drivers need to leave at least 3 feet of space when passing a cyclist. Unfortunately, many drivers don’t respect this rule, and it can make riding a bike feel terrifying.
When a car speeds by just inches away, it can throw off a cyclist’s balance and create a dangerous situation. The close proximity can cause cyclists to feel pressured, or worse, risk getting clipped by the car.
Cyclists are entitled to a full lane on the road. When a driver doesn’t give them the space they need, it forces the cyclist to ride closer to the curb, which increases the likelihood of hitting debris or losing control.
Using Phones While Driving
When a motorist is distracted by their phone, they’re not focused on the road, and that means they might not notice a cyclist until it’s too late. A driver might say they didn’t see the rider, but more often than not, it’s because they weren’t looking in the first place.
Opening Car Doors Without Checking
Dooring is when a driver or passenger opens their car door into the path of a cyclist. This can happen without warning, and when a cyclist is riding by, it can cause them to crash into the door, fall off their bike, or swerve into traffic.
In some cases, it can even be fatal. The simple action of not checking the side mirror before opening a door can have serious consequences for a cyclist who’s riding in the bike lane or close to parked cars.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive drivers who purposely speed past cyclists too close, honk, or try to intimidate them are a real problem. While this may not happen all the time, it’s still a significant risk.
When drivers are in a rush or feel frustrated by a cyclist slowing them down, they might engage in reckless driving behaviors, putting both themselves and cyclists at serious risk.
Cyclists have just as much right to be on the road as any other vehicle, but aggressive drivers often forget this. Being aggressive or trying to push cyclists off the road can cause accidents that leave cyclists with serious injuries.
Throwing Objects at Cyclists
Believe it or not, some drivers intentionally throw things at cyclists. This is not just an act of aggression; it’s outright dangerous.
Throwing an object at a cyclist can cause them to lose control or, in some cases, get injured in ways that could have been prevented.
Drivers need to respect cyclists and treat them like any other road user. Throwing things at cyclists is unacceptable, and it’s a reminder of how hostile the road can feel to some cyclists.
