By
Pace Law

Bicyclists And Cars – Sharing The Road – Let’s Talk

April 13, 2018

As an avid cyclist and a personal injury lawyer I am regularly asked my opinion about accidents involving cyclists and motor vehicles – especially about what is one of the main causes of serious injury.

The answer is easy: It is right-hand turns.

A motor vehicle is a huge piece of equipment that can be a weapon causing serious harm.

When on my bike, the moment I see someone is slowing to turn right I am afraid there is a 50 per cent chance the motorist see me. This means hypervigilance needs to be exercised by both drivers and cyclists.

Motorists must check their blind-spots for bicycles every time they turn or change lanes. They need to anticipate both the foreseeable and unforeseeable risks that accompany driving and take to heart a deep awareness of the damage the can be caused operating a motor vehicle.

Cyclists must understand the vulnerability of their method of transportation and that the repercussion of being hit when on a bike is unimaginably higher than when in a car. Cyclists need to be aware that motorists are not perfect and they must anticipate safety errors. They must also follow the rules of the road, such as walking bikes through crosswalks and looking ahead and behind before turning.

Despite great efforts of organizations to educate both motorists and cyclists on safer ways to share the road, accidents continue to take place – with both cyclists and drivers at fault.

If in an accident, the sooner a lawyer is contacted the better. Of course, calling the police or an ambulance is of paramount importance. But, as soon as possible thereafter, inquiries should be made regarding legal rights.

There is no cost for inquiry and there is much about which to be aware.

  • What are you entitled to if sued?
  • Are you entitled to accident benefits?
  • Are there certain dates by which you need to submit information?
  • How long do I have before submitting a claim against the City? (Answer: it’s 10 days!)

Did you know that even if involved in an accident with a parked car, a cyclist may be entitled to receive accident benefits? Delaying connecting with a lawyer may mean putting your recovery more at risk.

Steven Arie Glowinsky is a personal injury lawyer who represents both cyclists and motor vehicle drivers who suffered serious injuries as a result of an accident. For more information, he can be reached at  or (416) 734-0431.

Share This Post
Email
Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter
Trending Posts
Read More Insights
Wills And Estates
By
Pace Law
Estate planning, essential for ensuring posthumous wishes are met, remains an area 70% of Canadians neglect. This deficiency largely stems from misconceptions, such as believing estate planning is only for the wealthy or thinking they’re too young to start.
Criminal Defence Law
By
Pace Law
In Ontario, adherence to driving regulations is critical for public safety, but violations occur, leading to criminal charges.
Wills And Estates
By
Angela Barrientos
Have you ever thought about estate planning and concluded it’s unnecessary because you don’t own any real estate?
Corporate and Personal Law
By
Pace Law
A Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) is an integral document used when the shares of a corporation are being purchased. The document outlines the agreement between the buyer and seller and can be quite complex.
Wills And Estates
By
Angela Barrientos
A will is a legal document that clearly states how a person’s property and belongings will be divided after their passing.

Get in Touch

Call us now or fill out the form to discuss your case with an experienced legal professional.

Our Locations

Office Location

191 The West Mall, Suite 1100
Toronto, ON M9C 5K8
Phone: 1-877-236-3060
Fax: 416-236-1809

Office Location

191 The West Mall, Suite 1100
Toronto, ON M9C 5K8
Phone: 1-877-236-3060
Fax: 416-236-1809

Scroll to Top