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Bicyclists beware of blind spots to avoid a Tennessee trucking accident
The Nashville News is reporting bicyclist need to be extremely careful when riding near large trucks.
Our Tennessee truck accident lawyers are aware of the recent truck accident that involved a cyclist.
It is understandable that Middle Tennessee cyclists are outraged that the driver of a dump truck that hit a rider was cleared of all charges, including the $50 ticket for driving within 3 feet of the bicyclist. The $50 fine does seem like a small amount to pay for failing to drive further than 3 feet from a cyclist. In response to a host of calls from cycling clubs, the state’s Transportation Committee unanimously passed a bill out of committee that will raise the fine to $250 for the unsafe passing of a bicyclist or a pedestrian.
Large trucks need plenty of room to move through traffic. Most truck drivers allow for extra space between themselves and other vehicles. We can help avoid problems while riding near large vehicles by remembering that the driver of a truck has many blind spots. Even trucks equipped with fish and specialized side view mirrors won’t always help the driver see you. If a truck moves at the same time as a cyclist is in their blind spot a collision is bound to occur. Safety Tips for Drivers: -When passing a bicyclist do it slowly and leave at least a distance of 3 feet between you and the bicycle.
-Never try to pass a bicyclist on a two-lane road until oncoming traffic has cleared.
-Never pass a bicycle on narrow roads; doing so could force them off the road or into parked cars.
-Tapping your horn briefly and gently lets riders know you are passing. Never startle the bicyclist by blasting your horn.
-The most common causes of collisions are drivers turning left in front of an oncoming bicycle or turning right, across the path of the bicycle.
-Pay attention to riders, especially children, turning in front of you without signaling or looking.
-Never turn across the path of the bicyclist, merge with them when making a right turn.
-Always let a bicyclist pass if you are turning right and the rider is approaching.
-Bicyclists should try to maintain eye contact with drivers around them, especially when they or a vehicle is making a turn. Always try to gain and maintain eye contact with the rider to ensure a safer turn.
-Always use your turn signals.
If you are involved in a trucking accident in Tennessee, contact Hartsoe Law Firm, P.C. for a confidential appointment to discuss your rights with our Knoxville injury lawyers and Maryville accident attorneys. Call (865) 804-1011.