The city of Atlanta recently allocated $2.5 million for 26 projects designed to make the city more bike-friendly. No matter how friendly a city becomes towards cyclists, any time bikes and motor vehicles are in close proximity a risk or collisions exists. When bicycles and cars get into accidents, the injuries can be severe, most often for the individuals on bikes. As a result, there are laws in place designed to keep traffic moving smoothly and to reduce the risk of accidents. Unfortunately, these laws are not always followed, and each year bicyclists are injured by aggressive drivers. Anyone who has been injured by an aggressive driver may be able to recover for their losses, and should consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to determine whether they have a claim.
Everyone on the road, and particularly bicyclists, should be aware of and avoid aggressive drivers as much as possible. Aggressive driving is against the law in Georgia, and people who feel unsafe should report the aggressive driver to the appropriate local authorities. In order to do so, however, it is important to be able to identify a driver who is driving aggressively. Some of the most common examples of aggressive driving include the following:
- Following too closely
- Sudden stops
- Blocking traffic
- Gestures or shouting
- Flashing high beams
- Speeding
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Sudden lane changes
This type of behavior can be extremely hazardous to other drivers and puts everyone at risk. If you spot an aggressive driver while cycling, pull over and put as much distance between you and his or her vehicle as possible. If you have a phone on you, call the appropriate authorities. In the unfortunate incident that you are involved in an accident with an aggressive driver, seek medical attention immediately.
Contact a Newnan personal injury attorney for a free consultation
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident caused by an aggressive driver, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. In order to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury lawyers, call our office today at (980) 246-2656