Cyclists all across the country are going to be dusting off their bicycles and enjoying the warm summer weather. While a fun way to travel, bicycles are also risky due to the lack of any real protection. Despite being able to travel at high speeds, the thin light-weight design of most urban bicycles offers zero protection to the rider. People riding a bicycle have the right to use bike lanes, roads and crosswalks without fear that they may be struck by a motor vehicle. If a cyclist is struck by another vehicle who acted negligently, they may be able to recover for their injuries in a successful personal injury lawsuit.
Other vehicles need to pay extra attention to bicyclists because of their unique vulnerability. Even a minor accident or collision with a bicycle can have serious ramifications to its rider, including serious injury or even death. That is unfortunately what happened this week in Gaithersburg, Maryland. On a bright, sunny weekday afternoon, a cyclist was traveling down the 100 block of South Frederick Avenue. The cyclist was reportedly traveling along the inner right side of the road when it was suddenly struck from behind by an SUV traveling in the same direction.
The cyclist and bicycle were dragged underneath the SUV after being struck, dragging them along the road. The driver of the SUV reportedly stopped as soon as possible and called for emergency aid. When first responders arrived, however, the cyclist was pronounced dead. According to wusa9.com, the cause and circumstance of the accident are under investigation. If the cyclist stopped suddenly or rode in a reckless manner, then the driver of the SUV may not be responsible for the cyclist’s death. If, however, the SUV driver is determined to have driven in a reckless or negligent manner, then the cyclist’s family may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver.
If you or a loved one were riding your bicycle in a safe, responsible manner but were injured nonetheless, call 617-787-3700. Our Boston bicycle injury attorneys will listen closely to you about your case and discuss your legal options. Time may be a factor, so please don’t hesitate to call today!