Cycling in urban areas provides an affordable, healthy, and eco-friendly mode of transportation, but it also presents unique hazards that cyclists need to be aware of. Navigating congested streets and dealing with distracted drivers require extra vigilance from city cyclists.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 1,105 cyclist fatalities in the U.S. in 2022. Bicycle crashes resulting in injuries average 45,400 annually. If you’ve been injured in a cycling accident in Michigan, the experienced Michigan bicycle accident lawyers at Fieger Law can help protect your rights and pursue compensation.

Common Urban Cycling Hazards

Urban cyclists face numerous potential hazards, from heavy traffic to poor road conditions. Here are some of the biggest threats they encounter:

  • Congested Traffic Conditions: In urban areas, cyclists often deal with heavy traffic, which increases the chances of close encounters and collisions. The high number of cars and frequent changes in traffic flow can create hazardous situations, such as sudden stops, unexpected lane changes, or vehicles merging into bike lanes occupied by cyclists.
  • Poor Road Conditions: Urban cyclists often navigate streets plagued with potholes, uneven surfaces, and road debris. These hazards can cause cyclists to lose control of their bicycles, leading to falls or forcing them into the path of moving traffic.
  • Distracted Drivers: In urban settings, drivers often get distracted by activities like using cell phones, eating, or adjusting in-car systems. This lack of attention can lead them to overlook nearby cyclists, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
  • Limited Cycling Infrastructure: Many urban areas lack dedicated bike lanes, paths, and cyclist-friendly road designs, forcing cyclists to share congested streets with motor vehicles. This situation makes it challenging for cyclists to ride safely and increases the likelihood of close passes, aggressive driving, and collisions.

If you’re hurt by a negligent driver in Michigan, our team at Fieger Law can help. Whether your accident was due to poor infrastructure or distracted driving, we can pursue damages on your behalf to pay for medical bills and lost wages while you recover.

Your Rights as a Cyclist in Michigan

Despite the inherent risks, cyclists in Michigan also have rights that protect them on the road. When traveling on your bike, you can expect these legal protections:

The Right to Use Public Roads: Like motor vehicle drivers, cyclists have the legal right to operate on most public roads in Michigan while following the rules of the road.

  • The Right to Reasonably Safe Conditions: Michigan state laws require municipalities and road authorities to maintain public roads, bike lanes, and associated infrastructure in a reasonably safe condition suitable for all legal parties, including cyclists.
  • Right to Recommended Signage/Markings: Bicyclists have the right to expect standard signage and markings related to bike lanes, paths, and hazards per the Manual on Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) in Michigan.
  • The Right to Pursue Compensation for Negligence: When a cyclist is injured due to a driver’s negligent, reckless, or unlawful actions, they have the right to pursue compensation from the at-fault party. You can seek a settlement by filing an insurance claim with the driver’s liability coverage or a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages.

If you’re involved in a bicycle accident, speak with our qualified attorneys at Fieger Law. We can help determine if your rights were violated and help you get full compensation for your damages.

Protecting Your Well-being As a Cyclist

Cycling in urban areas presents unique challenges, requiring both precaution and assertiveness. To mitigate risks and protect your rights, you can use several strategies:

  • Be Visible: Use reflective gear and install lights on your bicycle to ensure you are more easily seen, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
  • Follow Traffic Rules: Adhere strictly to traffic signals and signs, and always signal your intentions to other road users.
  • Use Bike Lanes When Available: Ride in designated bike lanes or paths, which are safer than navigating mixed traffic.
  • Document Incidents: If you’re struck by a vehicle, collect as much evidence as possible, including photos, driver details, and witness contact information.
  • Seek Medical Care: Get checked out by a doctor, even if you feel fine, to ensure your well-being and document any injuries for an insurance claim.
  • Consult an Attorney: Talk to an experienced bicycle accident attorney to understand your rights and legal options. Our team at Fieger Law can help you gather evidence, hold the motorist or another negligent party responsible for your damages, and get you full compensation for your injuries.

Consult a Qualified Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

Cycling provides a sense of adventure and freedom, but negligent drivers can cause serious injuries to bicycle riders in a crash. Our firm has successfully served accident victims in Michigan and around the U.S. for over 70 years, recovering millions in settlements and jury verdicts.

Contact us today for a free case evaluation. We can discuss your next legal steps and path toward recovery.