KomoNews reported on Wednesday, March 24, 2021, in Seattle’s Georgetown neighborhood, a bicyclist was fatally struck by a U.S. Postal Service semi. The driver was said to be stopped at a red light about to make a right turn when the cyclist pulled out in front of the semi and was killed on impact. Experts believe the bicyclist may have just been out of the driver’s view.
We are saddened to hear this news, especially with the increase of automobile collisions throughout the City of Seattle, many of those involving cyclists or pedestrians. In Washington State, a bicycle is a legal road vehicle, which means riders have the same rights as drivers; however, this also means cyclists have the same responsibilities as well, but are at a disadvantage under circumstances like this.
When it comes to road safety, there are a few ways to prevent and/or highly reduce the chance of automobile collisions, especially involving bicycles or pedestrians:
Pedestrians and Bicyclists
- Use the safety-in-numbers rule and try to walk or ride with others when possible
- Only use crosswalks when designated to cross by the light
- Yield before crossing, as there are drivers who may run red lights or simply may not see you
- Use extra caution in high-traffic urban areas
- Attempt to make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you
Drivers
- Remember to use mirrors to look behind you before making turns, and be sure to slow down before turning as well
- Avoid speeding up at yellow lights and running red lights, as pedestrians or cyclists may already be crossing the road
- Slow down at intersections, especially ones with multiple legs
- Lastly, simply pay attention to your surroundings and share the road
We understand that incidents still occur and are happening much more than they should be, which is why it is important in cases like these to talk with a personal injury lawyer to figure out your rights. GLP Attorneys has experience working with automobile collisions and bicycle injuries. Contact one of our attorneys today for a free lawyer consultation if you or a loved one has been involved in a collision.
Our thoughts go out to the family of the deceased.
