Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic in the United States, Governor Tom Wolf has issued a stay at home order for all 67 Pennsylvania counties. This order came into effect on April 1, 2020. While this stay order is meant to significantly reduce the number of people outside of their homes, Pennsylvania residents may still engage in outdoor activity, including bicycling, walking, running, and more. At SMT Legal, we want to warn bicyclists and drivers that they still need to be careful on the roadways. Due to less traffic, many people may be lulled into a false sense of security.
What is happening with traffic?
As COVID-19 spreads across this country, Gov. Wolf says that the stay at home order he issued “is the most prudent option to stop the spread of COVID-19 across our commonwealth, where cases continue to grow daily.”
When we look at the orders issued, we can see that individuals can still leave their residence to perform many different activities. This includes getting much-needed exercise, so long as social distancing is maintained. Many people in the commonwealth have noticed that there has been a significant decrease in traffic as a result of people staying at home. However, the team at SMT Legal wants to warn both bicyclists and drivers that they still need to be vigilant when they are on the roadway.
Tips for bicyclists
If you are a cyclist and plan to ride to get exercise or to get to the store and back, you should keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Be vigilant, even if there is less traffic. Never assume a driver sees you.
- Follow all rules of the roadway, including stopping at stop signs and stoplights, yielding when appropriate, and riding on the right side of the roadway.
- Wear brightly coloured clothing, especially when riding in the evening or at night, to ensure maximum visibility.
Tips for drivers
If you are out driving, you still need to watch out for pedestrians and bicyclists at all times.
- Put away any distractions such as cell phones or other devices that take your eyes off the roadway.
- Continue to stop at any marked crosswalks, especially when pedestrians or bicyclists are present.
- Do not drive too fast for conditions, even if the roadways are more empty than normal.
We are ready to get to work on your case
If you or somebody has been injured in a bicycle accident that was caused by a careless or negligent driver, seek legal assistance today. At SMT Legal, we are ready to get to work investigating your case in order to secure any compensation you may be entitled to. This can include:
- Coverage of all bicycle crash-related medical bills
- Compensation for lost income if you cannot work
- Mental anguish damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life damages
- Possible punitive damages against a negligent party
When do you need a Pittsburgh bicycle accident attorney, you can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 412-765-3345.