Q: I was recently in an car accident and would like a professional opinion on who may be liable for damages.
It was raining heavily and I was heading home for the day. I was about to turn right onto a road to leave my works parking lot. I looked both ways and saw no incoming cars. However due to the rain and tall plants blocking my view of the sidewalk and I didn't see a man on a bike coming towards me from the right. He either didn't see me or thought I saw him and planned to pass in front of me, but I pulled forward so he ended up hitting the side of my car. No one was injured but his front tire was bent and there was a dent in my car. The police were not contacted as damage was minor but we did exchange information. I believe that he was the one at fault as he was riding on the sidewalk instead of the specified bike lane and was also on the left side of the road
A: A Utah attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for a week. Until you are able to consult with a local attorney on state-specific rules, there are elements on both sides that could be argued - bicycle on sidewalk, vehicle leaving parking lot duty to yield, and other possible issues. Those are generic issues that arise nationwide. A local attorney should advise for more definitive guidance. Good luck
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