Bicycle Buffer Zones and the Law
Over 700 bicyclists were killed in 2012 with almost 50,000 injured in the same year. To combat this problem, a number of areas around the country have begun to establish spaces between roadways that vehicles are allowed to drive on and bicycle lanes. These bicycle buffer zones are intended to reduce the number of injuries and deaths caused by collisions between cars and cyclists.
What Are They?
Bicycle buffer zones were created to address safety issues that arise when bike lanes are situated directly next to the area of the road that cars drive on. This makes it safer for everyone who is out on the road. These spaces are often demarcated with things like bicycle pictures and stripes of paint.
While widening bike lanes may seem to be an adequate solution to problems related to collisions, a report from the U.S. Transportation Research Board has shown that this is not the best approach. Utilizing a buffer zone that separates automobile and bicycle traffic was found to be preferable because it creates a space between the two.
In addition, it also helps cyclists stay safe by keeping them out of the area next to the curb where people open their car doors after they have parked. This is a common place where people get injured while riding their bike. City and state governments believe that these buffer zones will encourage more people to travel by bicycle for both exercise and transportation.
How Are They Used?
Motorists are required to stay on the roadway and are not allowed to venture into the zone that separates them from cyclists. In addition, they must be vigilant when entering or exiting parking areas that may intersect with a buffer zone.
Cyclists are also responsible for doing their part in avoiding collisions. They are required to stay in the bike lane and are not able to travel within the buffer zone. They must also stay on the lookout for people opening doors to prevent injuries.
Typical Laws
Most states that have passed these laws require vehicles to keep at least a three foot distance from bicycles as they pass. However, others have more general outlines that force motorists to keep a reasonably safe distance from people on bicycles. Violators are generally fined, and the amounts that they are required to pay increase significantly with subsequent offenses or if they cause an accident.
Obtaining Legal Assistance
Many experienced attorneys specialize in injuries to bicyclists. In fact, these professionals can help even if people do not live in an area where bicycle buffer zone laws have been established. Anyone who has been hurt on their bicycle after a collision with an automobile should contact a lawyer who can help them get compensated for expenses that they have incurred from the accident.
