Tucson Bicycles — Please Watch for Bicycles

Once again, there is tragedy in the Tucson community.  A 64 year-old bicyclist was struck and  killed this morning.  The man was riding his bicycle north on Mission Road and was in the middle of the intersection when a car traveling east on Irvington Road hit him and fled the scene, Deputy Jesus Bañuelos, of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, said.  It is Arizona law that a motorist MUST stop in any collision with injuries, regardless of who is at fault.  Witnesses provided a description of the suspect’s vehicle and deputies found it hours later on the northwest side. A suspect has been arrested and is facing charges of second degree murder and leaving the scene of a fatal collision.  As a reminder, please watch carefully for bicyclists.
These are some aspects of Arizona bicycle law that cyclists and drivers should keep in mind:
  • Drivers must give cyclists at least three feet of room when passing bicycles traveling in the same direction.
  • In most cases, the law prohibits drivers operating or leaving their vehicles in areas designated as bicycle paths or lanes.
  • On roadways, no more than two cyclists should ride side by side.
  • Cyclists traveling at night must equip their bicycles with a white light lamp at the front that is visible from 500 feet and a red reflector (or light) at the back.

The above are just a few of the rules related to Arizona bicycle law.  If you do ride a bicycle in Tucson, it is useful to know what to do if you are invovled in a collision.  As Arizona bicycle accident lawyers, we have successfully handled thousands of injury cases and know that your actions can determine how well your health, and your rights, are preserved.

  1. Do not lightly dismiss a bike accident. It may seem that you and your bike are not injured or damaged, but you could find out down the road that indeed you and your bike sustained harm.
  2. Remain calm. A non-confrontational attitude will allow you to gather the information you need.
  3. Call the police. Insist that the police officer file a report. If an officer does not respond, file a report online within 72 hours.
  4. Obtain the motor vehicle operator’s name, address, phone number, license plate number and insurance information.
  5. If possible, obtain the name, address and phone number of all witnesses.
  6. Take photos of the accident scene, your bike, all involved vehicles and your injuries.
  7. Get necessary medical treatment.
  8. Have your bike inspected for damage at a reputable bike shop.
  9. Retain a reputable bicycle accident lawyer, before giving a statement to the motor vehicle operator’s insurance company.
  10. Allow your bicycle accident lawyers to ascertain the full extent of damage to your bike and your injuries before making a settlement.

Stay safe out there!