Understanding the Nuances of the State’s Stop Law
Under Idaho Code § 49-720, cyclists may treat a stop sign as a yield sign and a red light as a stop sign. Known as the state stop law, this statute allows you to slow down and proceed through a stop sign without coming to a full stop if the intersection is clear. As a cyclist, the nuances of this statute should help keep you moving and safe.
However, insurance adjusters may try to use your actions against you by arguing that you drove through a stop sign when, in truth, you were following the law. One of our lawyers familiar with these traffic rules will help you gather evidence to prove you were biking lawfully in Idaho Falls before the accident.
What Damages Are Recoverable After a Bike Accident?
After sustaining injuries while cycling, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim for compensation in accordance with Idaho Code § 5-219(4). It is best to consult with legal counsel as soon as possible after the crash to prevent your claim from being dismissed for failure to follow procedural requirements.
An award of damages for a bike accident includes economic and non-economic compensation. Economic damages compensate for your financial harm, including your medical expenses and lost wages. Non-economic damages compensate for your emotional harm and include disfigurement and mental anguish. Our lawyers help maximize your overall payout after a bike crash in Idaho Falls.
However, obtaining a cash settlement may be challenging, as there is no guarantee. The state follows a modified comparative negligence model under Idaho Code § 6-801 for purposes of pursuing financial compensation. Under this statute’s framework, if you are found to be 50 percent or more at fault for the road incident, you may not recover compensation.
