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Would you be safer cycling on the sidewalk? 

On Behalf of | Sep 9, 2021 | Bike-Accidents |

If you’re riding your bicycle on the road when a car nearly hits you, it can be jarring. They may not make contact, and you may be unharmed, but it shows you just how quickly a serious accident can take place. 

To defend against this, you may consider getting out of the street entirely and riding your bike on the sidewalk. It feels safer since you’re farther away from traffic. Is this actually a good idea?

It’s actually more dangerous

The truth is that riding on the sidewalk is more dangerous than riding in the street, and you should not do it. You’re just increasing the odds of being injured in an accident. 

In one sense, this does work. You’ll clearly be less likely to be hit by someone who is merely driving straight in the traffic lane. But you’re exchanging it for a new danger: Drivers who are turning, pulling off of the road or driving onto the road from a parking lot or driveway. 

All of these drivers will cross the sidewalk or a crosswalk in order to make these maneuvers. They’re far more likely to hit you than someone who is passing you on the same street. 

Can you seek compensation after a crash?

If you are injured in an accident that a driver causes, you may be able to get compensation for medical bills and other costs. Did you know that Nevada has a statute of limitations and that if you were in an accident or injured in the last two years you could be compensated? Make sure you know what steps to take to protect your interests.