Sharing the road is a part of everyday life in San Francisco. With more people choosing bicycles for commuting, recreation, and exercise, it’s essential that cyclists and drivers understand how to interact safely. One key law that helps promote safer streets is California’s Three Feet for Safety Act. For those navigating the busy streets of San Francisco, knowing how this law works can help reduce accidents and protect your rights.
What Is the Three Feet for Safety Act?
The Three Feet for Safety Act, found in California Vehicle Code Section 21760, requires that drivers give bicyclists at least three feet of space when passing. This applies when a motor vehicle and a bicycle are traveling in the same direction on a public road. If a driver cannot safely give three feet due to traffic or road conditions, the driver must slow down to a safe speed and wait until it is safe to pass without putting the cyclist in danger.
This law was created to provide clear expectations and safer conditions for cyclists. In many serious bicycle accidents, a lack of space between the vehicle and the bike contributes to the collision. The three-foot buffer helps reduce the risk of sideswipe accidents and gives cyclists room to avoid obstacles or road hazards.
Why This Law Is Especially Important in San Francisco
San Francisco has a high volume of cyclists, narrow streets, and frequent congestion. These conditions make it especially important for drivers to understand and follow the Three Feet for Safety Act. A driver who passes too closely may not only startle the cyclist but also cause a crash that leads to significant injuries.
Injuries from bicycle accidents can include broken bones, concussions, spinal trauma, and internal injuries. These cases often result in high medical costs and time away from work. A collision caused by a driver failing to provide proper space may leave the cyclist with both physical and financial hardship.
Consequences for Drivers Who Violate the Law
Drivers who violate the Three Feet for Safety Act may face fines or citations. More importantly, if an accident occurs and it is found that the driver failed to give the cyclist enough room, the driver may be held legally responsible for the damages. This includes medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
A San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer can help determine if the Three Feet for Safety Act was violated and how it may affect a personal injury claim. At Lininger Injury Lawyers, we review each case carefully to understand how the law applies to the specific circumstances of the accident.
What Drivers Should Keep in Mind
The most important thing drivers can do is slow down and stay alert when approaching cyclists. If there is not enough room to pass safely, the law requires that the driver wait until it is safe. Passing too closely to save time puts lives at risk.
Drivers should also check mirrors and blind spots, especially when turning or merging near a bicycle lane. Giving cyclists plenty of space and avoiding distractions behind the wheel can prevent unnecessary injuries.
Tips for Cyclists to Stay Safe
Cyclists also play a role in road safety. Riding in a predictable manner, using proper hand signals, obeying traffic signals, and wearing visible clothing can help reduce the chance of being involved in an accident. However, even cautious cyclists can be injured by careless drivers.
When a cyclist is hit by a vehicle that failed to give proper space, they may have legal options. A San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer can investigate the incident, gather evidence such as witness statements or traffic camera footage, and help pursue compensation from the responsible party.
Talk to San Francisco Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Lininger Injury Lawyers
The Three Feet for Safety Act exists to protect cyclists and reduce preventable accidents. In a city like San Francisco, where cyclists and drivers share the streets every day, knowing and following this law is crucial. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident because a driver failed to provide the required three feet of space, our team at Lininger Injury Lawyers is here to help. Contact us today to speak with a San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer and learn how we can support your claim.
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