According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, Charlotte has the highest number of bicycle versus car accidents, accounting for nearly 12% of all bike crashes in North Carolina. Statistics show that 61% of bicycle accidents in North Carolina occur on roadways with a speed limit of 35mph or less, 63% occur on two-lane roads, and 61% occur on local streets.
The Charlotte Observer questions whether cyclists and motorists can share the road, and illustrates the ongoing conflict between riders and drivers. Drivers complain that they are slowed by cyclists they cannot safely pass or are riding side-by-side, and that cyclists do not obey traffic laws. Cyclists argue that motorists pass too close to their bikes and cut them off.
So who is right?
Under North Carolina law, a bicycle is considered a vehicle. This means that the rider of bike may ride anywhere except an Interstate Highway or other highway, and while the cyclist should ride as far to the right as possible, the cyclists may ride in the traffic lane if the far right is unsafe to ride on due to poor road condition, or if the cyclist can maintain the same speed as others in the road. It also means that cyclists are required to obey the same rules of the road as a car or truck.
For more information, see Bicyclists' Rights and Responsibilities, or call an experienced bicycle accident attorney for a free consultation.
