Motorists asked to be aware of bicyclists following accidents this week

In a period of two days, two Jackson residents riding bicycles have been hit by motorists.

Vibora Lim was hit by a motorist on U.S. Highway 412 in Madison County, Tuesday, one day after a truck hit Chris Baker on Todd Levee Road in Crockett County.

Fortunately no one was seriously injured – the drivers of the automobiles did stop – and no charges were filed.

Following these recent events, we are reminded the distractions have increased for those operating vehicles, so here’s a reminder about Tennessee Traffic Laws relating to bicycles.

Motorist Must Exercise Due Care
The most basic traffic law is the requirement to operate your vehicle safely or as expressed in legalese: “drivers to exercise due care” by “maintaining a safe lookout, by keeping the vehicle under proper control and by devoting full time and attention to operating the vehicle.”

This law also uses the phase “Notwithstanding any speed limit.” This means it is not always safe or legal to drive at the speed limit. Your speed must be adjusted to conditions so you can
stop within a clear distance ahead.

If you drive at a speed that is unsafe for existing conditions in any area, you are violating the Basic Speed Rule. This applies even if you are driving slower than the posted speed or maximum
limit, per the Tennessee Drivers Manual 2011 page 46.

In other words, you can’t drive any faster than your ability to see and stop before hitting a bicyclist or pedestrian. (TCA 55-8-136)

Sorry I Didn’t See You – It’s not a Legal Excuse in TN
If a cyclist makes themselves visible enough that a prudent motorist would have seen them; then the duty to exercise due care law requires you to remain alert at all times and makes all drivers responsible to see and avoid bicyclists.

You cannot let yourself be distracted by your passengers, your GPS, your food or anything else. While it is not illegal to talk on a cell phone in TN, it is illegal to become distracted while driving and talking on a cell phone. (TNAGO 09-34).

Motorists and bicyclists cooperating with each other in a courteous and respectful manner can make our roadways both safe and efficient.

David Thomas, Twitter – @DavidThomasWNWS
https://www.facebook.com/NewsTalk1015/