A national story printed on cnn.com discussing an investigation into bicycle accidents in New York City brings to light what is truly a nationwide dilemma. Rhode Island and Massachusetts are not without their fair share of bicycle accidents that result in serious injury and the question has to be asked whether the law does enough to protect bike riders on public streets.
Michelle Matson was struck while riding home on a bicycle by a driver who was speeding and subsequently fled the scene. She was nearly killed in this accident with serious injury to her skull and spine. She feels little effort was made to investigate the accident or apprehend the driver who nearly killed her and left the scene. As a result, Ms. Matson’s life was turned upside down and she has no legal recourse to recover for her pain and suffering and hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills. The question must be asked why no thorough investigation was conducted? The article points out that absent death or catastrophic injury, little investigation will be conducted into a bicycle accident.
There is no doubt that this problem exists in Rhode Island as well. While bicyclists have a right to use the road under the same rules as motorists, the assumption is that bicyclists merely get in the way of operators of motor vehicles. Bicycle riders must maintain the absolute care and lookout for all of their surroundings, yet the law puts little requirement on vehicle operators to take such care. Auto accidents involving pedestrians and bike riders are almost always serious because bikes offer such little protection to riders. The law must seek ways to better protect bike riders and more thoroughly investigate accidents.
The Law Office of Joseph Lamy has a great deal of experience in representing victims of bike accidents. If you or a loved one was injured in an accident while on a bike contact our office right away for a free consultation. There is no fee unless we are successful in obtaining money for you.