When thinking of Tempe, many imagine Arizona State University, a mainstay in the community and a part of what makes the town vibrant. Others may think about the annual marathon hosted there or the Ironman triathlon that takes place late in the year. Still some may imagine Mill Avenue and the plethora of restaurants, bars, and shops to be visited as one strolls through town. But in addition to these, Tempe has a very large population of cyclists, both locals and tourists. This is a wonderful and rewarding hobby, but it can have its dangers like bicycle accidents.
Biking Demographic in Tempe, ArizonaTempe has its own character in the Valley and is known for having an active population that enjoys the outdoors and outdoor activities. Among them, bicycling is particularly popular with many choosing to use bikes for transit or for pleasure. College kids, professionals, children, and even tourists can be seen biking around Tempe and taking in the sights.
In response, the City of Tempe has taken certain steps towards increasing the bicycle-friendly nature of the city and even encouraging bicycling among citizens.
According to estimates put forth by the City of Tempe, 3% of all residents bike to work. While that may not seem like a lot, it is substantially higher than comparable numbers in many other American communities of a similar size. The population of Tempe is on the move, walking, hiking, and running around the city, so it may not be surprising that bicycling in popular as well.
Further, a number of Tempe residents are young and new to the area thanks to Arizona State University. Some students choose to get around by bicycle instead of by car because it is affordable and convenient when in the area of campus. The wide streets and bicycle-friendly routes makes riding ideal among some students.
Bicycle Accidents in TempeWhile ridership is plentiful, collisions involving bicycles continue to occur in Tempe and the surrounding areas. Some of these collisions are between different bicyclists but many involve a bicycle and a type of motorized vehicle like a car, truck, or bus. These accidents can result in devastating injuries and may alter a cyclist's life forever with effects that reach to that rider's friends, family, and loved ones.
The laws in Arizona are designed to hold negligent drivers liable for the injuries that result from a collision, including the financial losses experienced by any victim. These claims are separate and distinct from any charges brought by the State of Arizona through a traffic ticket or a criminal charge and the right to bring these claims generally belongs to the victim who has been harmed.
Cyclist Protections in Tempe, ArizonaIn Tempe, riders are legally authorized to occupy a lane of traffic unless it is expressly prohibited in an area. It is the responsibility of every motorist to respect these rights and to drive in a manner that does not threaten the safety of bicyclists, yet every day, some drivers in Tempe fail to take the necessary precautions and case a hazardous situation to arise.
Safety Tips for Tempe BicyclistsTo keep yourself safe while biking, whether for commuting or for pleasure, always make sure to wear your helmet. Furthermore, make sure you’re using the appropriate helmet type and size for your anatomy. Wearing a helmet is the single best way to minimize your risk of fatality if you’re involved in a biking accident. Although it won’t make you invincible, it will lower your chance of dying in an accident.
In addition to wearing a helmet, always stay focused on the road ahead of you and be aware of cars on the road. This is no different from driving and keeping an awareness of other cars around you. If there is a bike lane, ride in a single file line along it. If you are sharing the road with cars, ride along the right-side of the road in the direction of traffic. Whenever possible, avoid riding at night or during rush hour. If this is not possible, be sure to use reflectors on your bike and wear clothing that allows drivers to identify you on the road.
Finally, just as you would have to maintenance a car, you should do the same with your bike. Make sure that the chain is properly tightened and oiled and that the wheels are inflated to the set amount. Maintaining your bike will prevent the likelihood of complications on the road that put you at risk of an accident.
Legal Relief for Tempe Bicycle Accident VictimsIf you have been injured in a bicycle accident in Tempe or the surrounding areas, you may be entitled to financial compensation if you sustained injuries. Similarly, if your loved one was injured or killed, your family may have a valid claim for legal relief though no amount of compensation can ever be adequate when a family member is killed.
Abels & Annes is your Bicycle Accident AttorneyThe personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. have experience representing numerous bicycle accident victims, including many such victims who were hurt in collisions in the Valley. We have a lawyer standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to take your call and to help you understand your legal options if you have been involved in a crash.
We can be reached toll free at (855) 749-5299 or locally at (602) 819-5191 and there is never a fee associated with the call. We will help you understand the legal implications of your accident and which claims, if any, you may be entitled to bring.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we believe in putting the interests of our clients first and we fight hard for the best possible outcome in every case we take. If you or your family member has been hurt in Tempe, let us help you as well.
If you have been involved in a Tempe bicycle accident, call us toll free at (855) 749-5299 or Contact Us online for a free, no obligation case consultation.