What if the driver who caused my bicycle accident was tailgating another vehicle?
When a driver causes a bicycle accident in Washington, the law may look at their behavior prior to the accident to determine liability. If the driver was tailgating another vehicle, or following too closely, they may be held responsible for causing the accident. Under Washington law, all drivers must maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Tailgating is considered to be reckless behavior and can be used as evidence of fault if an accident occurs. Tailgating can result in a driver not having enough time to stop or swerve to avoid a collision, which is especially dangerous when a bicycle is involved. If you are injured in a bicycle accident caused by a tailgating driver, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It is important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case and determine your legal options. An attorney can help you gather evidence to prove the driver’s negligence, such as any witnesses who saw the accident, photographs of skid marks, or the driver’s testimony. In Washington, you may also be entitled to punitive damages. These damages are awarded to punish the defendant for their reckless behavior and deter them from acting similarly in the future. It is important to keep in mind that laws and deadlines related to bicycle accident cases may vary from state to state, so be sure to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
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