Bicyclists and motorists are faced with many challenges while sharing the road. There are many different types of collisions that bicycles and motorists can find themselves in, but they key is that they are preventable. Here are some different types of collisions and tips on how to avoid them:

• “The right cross” is the most common way that bicyclists get hit. This happens when a car is pulling out of a side street, parking lot, or driveway on the right. There are two possible collisions that can happen from “the right cross” – either the car hits the bicyclist or the bicyclist hits the car. To avoid this collision invest in a headlight if you are riding your bicycle at night. Although this is required by law, many cyclists do not obey this law. Next, if you cannot make eye contact with the driver of the car, wave your arm; this makes a motorist more likely to see you.  Bicyclists can also try riding further to the left. When a driver is looking down the road for traffic, usually the bike lane and those areas closest to the curb get overlooked or are hidden in a blindspot.
• “The door prize” happens when a bicyclist is riding alongside a parked car only to have the driver open his or her door without noticing the cyclist coming. To avoid this collision ride far enough to the left that you will not run into any door that’s opened unexpectedly. Bicyclists should also always ride at least three feet from parked cars and be prepared to stop unexpectedly in the event that this does happen.
• “The right hook“ is when a car passes a bicyclist and tries to make a right turn directly in front of the bicyclist. You can avoid this collision as a bicyclist by never riding on the sidewalk. When a bicyclist comes off the sidewalk to cross the street he or she is not visible to motorists. Also, always make sure to glance in your mirror before approaching an intersection.

These are only some of the types of collisions bicyclists and motorists might encounter. Remember that the best way to stay safe is to make sure both parties are mindful of their surroundings and take extra precautions when necessary.  If you or a loved one are involved in a Phoenix bicycle accident contacting an experienced attorney can save many headaches and provide a settlement for your injuries.