Who is responsible for a bicycle accident?
In South Carolina, the individual who is found to have caused a bicycle accident is typically held responsible for the resulting damages. This means that if an individual’s careless or negligent behavior leads to an accident, then that individual is liable for any damages the victim sustained. In most cases, the driver of a motor vehicle is presumed to be at fault due to their larger size, speed, and higher level of control over the vehicle. Even if the bicyclist is somewhat at fault, the driver of the motor vehicle is still held responsible for the accident. Additionally, if an unsafe road condition caused the accident, then the local government or municipality may be held responsible. For instance, if a poorly constructed road surface caused the accident, then the government agency responsible for maintaining the roads could be liable for any damages. Lastly, if a bicycle accident is the result of an unsafe bicycle product (such as defective brakes or tires), then the manufacturer of the product could be held liable for any damages the victim incurred. Overall, who is responsible for a bicycle accident depends on the specific circumstances of the accident. Usually, the driver of a motor vehicle or the government agency responsible for maintaining the roads will be at fault for any damages suffered by the victim. However, if a bicycle product malfunctioned or failed, then the manufacturer could also be liable.
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