Jogger Owes $300,000 for Accident with a Cyclist
In 17 years of practice I have pursued a number of cases on behalf of pedestrians and cyclists, but I am quite certain I've never had a case where a cyclist sued a jogger (or vice-versa). According to an article in Virginia Lawyers Weekly, William Bundy was jogging in June 2012 when he collided with cyclist Ann Shephard. Apparently the complaint alleged that the jogger turned around suddenly in from of the cyclist causing her to fall off the bike and suffer a serious head injury. The jogger claimed he did not hear the cyclist approach due to hearing loss. No word yet on whether the verdict is being appealed.
Unfortunately this may not be the last time this situation occurs. Society appears to be becoming more active which is obviously a positive trend, but that also means streets and trails are being shared by cyclists and joggers alike. Most of the time it works out fine, but as the roads and trails become more congested we need to be careful. We also need to consider whether we are financially protected. Auto insurance of course will not help in this situation. Everyone should have adequate homeowners insurance or renters insurance which will provide personal liability protection.
For more information about the rights of pedestrians and bicyclists, please visit my website at http://www.joshsilvermanlaw.com/practice-areas/auto-accidents or give me a call.
