What if a bicycle rider collides with a pedestrian?
If a bicycle rider collides with a pedestrian in North Carolina, the cyclist may be liable for damages caused in the accident. However, the degree to which the cyclist is liable will depend on the details of the accident. Generally, cyclists in North Carolina are considered to have the same legal rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. That means cyclists must exercise due care and caution when operating a bicycle, just as a motorist would. If a cyclist negligently collides with a pedestrian, they could be liable for damages caused by their negligence. The cyclist could be liable for physical injuries such as broken bones, medical bills, lost wages, and in some cases, pain and suffering. The cyclist could also be liable for property damage and any other losses incurred by the pedestrian. In cases where the cyclist is not at fault, North Carolina law affords them certain protections. North Carolina has a Contributory Negligence rule which states that if a pedestrian is at least partially at fault for the accident, the cyclist may be absolved from any liability for the accident. If a cyclist is involved in a bicycle accident with a pedestrian, it is important to contact an experienced attorney to help you understand your legal rights. An attorney will be able to help you navigate your legal options and get the compensation you deserve.
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