A bike rider was injured in an Oklahoma car accident that occurred near an intersection. According to a News 9 report, the bicycle accident occurred at Sheridan and Western in Oklahoma City the morning of September 24. Officials have not released any information regarding how or why the accident occurred. The bike rider was transported to a nearby hospital in good condition. It is not clear if the driver will be cited for the crash.
There are many reasons why so many Oklahoma bike accidents occur near intersections. It is common for riders to put themselves in danger by running through red lights and by pulling up alongside vehicles that are about to turn. It is just as common for drivers to cause accidents by failing to yield to bicyclists and by entering an intersection without first looking for approaching riders.
Under Oklahoma law, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists. According to Oklahoma statute 11-201, bicyclists must obey all traffic control devices and signs. Riders must also ride on the right half of the roadway to give plenty of room to drivers.
It is important for all Oklahoma riders to understand these basic traffic laws because obeying the law is key to accident prevention. Of course, even the most careful riders can get struck and injured by careless motorists. According to the Oklahoma Bicycling Coalition, motorists are at fault for 48 percent of all Oklahoma bicycle accidents. About 14 percent of bike crashes between cars and bicycles in Oklahoma result from the driver going the wrong way. Another 9 percent of car and bike accidents occur when drivers fail to yield when leaving or entering a driveway, and 8 percent involve cars that run through stop signs and lights.
If you have been involved in an Oklahoma bicycle accident, it is important that you notify the authorities right away and collect evidence from the crash site. After seeking medical attention, it may be in your best interest to seek legal guidance. Support may be available for your medical bills, lost wages and other related damages. An experienced Oklahoma personal injury lawyer can help you better understand your legal rights and options.
