Overview
A serious collision occurred on a designated bike trail between two cyclists and a group of pedestrians. The cyclists, a married couple, filed a civil lawsuit after sustaining severe injuries. The jury awarded them $10.2 million in damages, finding the pedestrians at fault.
Accident Details
While cycling at a moderate speed (approximately 10–12 mph), the couple approached a group of four pedestrians who were walking side by side, taking up the entire width of the bike path. The cyclists rang their bells multiple times to signal their presence. Although one pedestrian began to step to the side, another pedestrian suddenly veered left into the cyclists’ path without warning or looking back. The resulting collision caused both cyclists to fall and sustain serious physical injuries.
Fault Assessment
1. Pedestrians
Occupied the full width of the bike path.
Ignored repeated audible warnings.
One pedestrian veered left without checking behind.
2. Cyclists
Riding legally on a designated bike path
Maintained a safe and reasonable speed
Gave proper audible warnings
Conclusion
The court found no comparative fault on the cyclists' part. The jury awarded the cyclist a total of $10.2 million in damages, covering medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.