Here's why I ask. Bicycles are considered vehicles of the road, thereby achieving the same rights as motorized vehicles, but also subjected to the same rules. Motorized vehicles are required to stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk, however most cyclists just blaze on through, often times nearly hitting pedestrians. Hence, if I'm in the crosswalk and a cyclist refuses to stop for me, can I stiff-arm the sucker off of his bike?
2006-09-27 10:11:08 · 16 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Kalaka, you're about as menacing as a used tampon.
2006-09-27 10:16:41 · update #1
why risk assault charges? have him 'hit' you, then sue .
2006-09-27 10:20:02 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
To fully answer your question, yes, it's against the law to knock someone off a bicycle, but, yes, also, those bicyclists are breaking the law by blowing through stop lights, signs and crosswalks. Cyclists have the same duties and privileges as the driver of a motor vehicle. Therefore, they are required to stop at any time a motor vehicle would be required to stop. However, you have no right to knock someone off his bike, either with your car or otherwise. Either instance is an assault and can result in civil and criminal prosecution.
2006-09-27 18:07:40 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Where I come from there are a few differences for cyclists with road laws. Sometimes they are allowed to do some things differently if it is safe to do so. This is to allow ease of traffic flow. If a cyclist is expected to wait here and there as a car or truck should then how long must other vehicles wait for them to get up speed?
Also there is no longer a right of way for anyone. The first part of the law is to avoid an accident. Then there is priority. If priority is not given then it must not be taken.
2006-09-27 17:27:13 · answer #3 · answered by slatibartfast 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
While some cyclists are very annoying on the road and are not required to license their bikes, it is still assault if you knock them off their bike deliberately. They are supposed to respect the "rules of the road" as are drivers, but many clearly do not. If the rider is hurling towards you, you can put your arms up defensively while getting out of their way. Ask for police to monitor the area during the time of heavy bike traffic.
2006-09-27 17:29:59 · answer #4 · answered by cheyennetomahawk 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
No, you cannot retaliate in such a manner. Further, you knew that or you'd not be here asking. Let me put it this way: I catch him, I'll nail 'im and give him a traffic ticket. I catch you doing what you propose, I'll slap the handcuffs on YOU for assault! Sorry I can't be everywhere at once. That's why civilization depends on most citizens behaving themselves whether The Man is watching or not.
2006-09-27 17:32:19 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Wow! more reckless cyclists!?!
" ... Though Seattle municipal code permits bicyclists to ride on city sidewalks, cyclists must yield to pedestrians. ... "
I believe if you clothes lined a cyclist, that could be viewed as assault. I recommend you leave the cyclist(s) alone. Karma will catch up to them eventually.
2006-09-27 17:33:07 · answer #6 · answered by r0bErT4u 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Can you deliberately assault someone and commit battery? No.
Just like you can't deliberately attack someone in a car.
And before you assume that bicyclists must stop for people in crosswalks, you might want to check the laws. They vary by state.
2006-09-27 17:17:45 · answer #7 · answered by coragryph 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I'm in no way affiliated with the law, but I would say no you can't do that. That could easily be constrewed as Assault. As a Business Law teacher once told me "anyone can sue anyone for anything"
2006-09-27 17:14:58 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
If you do hit him, it will be either an assult charge or a hit and run. You can be fined huge and possibly have the person sue you for great damages (ie; loss of wage, or housekeeping capacity). Best just to honk your horn and finger them.
2006-09-27 17:50:46 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It could be considered as large a crime as felony assault in some counties and in many instances. I wouldn't go out of my way if I was you to do this. If you did do it, you'd better have plenty of friendly witnesses on your side.
2006-09-27 17:42:51 · answer #10 · answered by dingbat 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
NO you can't. It's called ASSAULT. But the cyclist can be charged if they hit you. They can also be held liable for your medical expenses if you need them.
Don't count young kids whose parents are too Dee-Dee-Dee to teach them about safe cycling!
2006-09-27 17:28:39 · answer #11 · answered by x_southernbelle 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋