Last updated on October 26th, 2023
Bicycle accidents occur more frequently than one might expect. In the United States alone, there are nearly 1,000 bike-related deaths each year, along with over 130,000 individuals who suffer injuries. It’s crucial to understand that even seemingly minor bicycle accidents can result in significant harm. However, if another party is at fault for the accident due to negligence, victims have the right to seek compensation for their injuries and any resulting losses.
At Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz, we fully recognize the devastating consequences that bicycle accidents can have on victims and their families. Our team of lawyers is committed to helping those who suffer injuries due to someone else’s negligence. We will strongly advocate for you to ensure you get rightful compensation for your bike accident-related losses and small injuries.
Bicycle accidents may usually appear minor but can result in severe injuries. These injuries are caused by the sudden impact and lack of protective barriers that motor vehicles provide. Some of the injuries sustained by bike accident victims include:
Head injuries are perhaps the most serious and life-threatening outcome of bike accidents. Even with a helmet, cyclists are vulnerable to head trauma. A concussion, a mild form of traumatic brain injury (TBI), can result from a direct blow to the head. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, head injuries are the leading cause of death and disabilities in bicycle-related accidents.
When involved in an accident, cyclists can fracture their arms, legs, collarbones, or wrists upon impact with the ground or other objects. Even a seemingly minor fall from a bike can lead to fractures. These may require surgery and weeks of rehabilitation to regain full use.
When a cyclist slides across the pavement upon falling, the friction can cause severe skin abrasions, known as road rash. These injuries can be excruciating and lead to scarring. In addition to road rash, cyclists can suffer from soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, and contusions.
Spinal cord injuries are among the most catastrophic outcomes of bike accidents. A sudden impact on the spine can lead to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries can have lifelong consequences, impacting mobility and independence.
Internal injuries are less visible but no less dangerous. A cyclist can sustain internal injuries to organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys when they impact the handlebars, the ground, or other objects during an accident. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can have serious consequences if left untreated.
Bicycle accidents can be a result of various factors, but the majority of them are caused by the careless actions of either a motor vehicle driver or a bicyclist. When such accidents occur, it often becomes necessary to pursue legal action to seek compensation for the damages incurred. To succeed in bike accident lawsuits, the plaintiff must establish that negligence caused the accident.
In proving negligence, your lawyer will help you establish the following:
Several forms of negligence can contribute to bike accidents. These include:
When the accident results from an obstruction or poor road conditions, premises liability law may come into play. This means that the property owner or the contractor responsible for maintaining the road could be liable for the accident. However, if the liability falls upon a government entity due to road conditions, pursuing a claim may require the assistance of a sovereign immunity lawyer.
The physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming when you’ve been injured in a bike accident. You need an attorney to help you pursue the compensation for your personal injury. There are several ways a lawyer can help.
One of the primary ways your lawyer can assist you is by leveraging their legal experience. They understand the intricacies of personal injury law and will guide you from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies or opposing counsel.
Your attorney will work diligently to establish that the other party owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries. They will compile evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Your lawyer will assess the full extent of your damages. The following damages may be recoverable with the assistance of your attorney:
Dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task. Your attorney will handle all communication with insurers. He will ensure that you are not pressured into accepting an inadequate settlement.
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your lawyer will take your case to court. They will represent your interests and fight for your rights in a trial.
Bike injuries can be severe, and they require proper evaluation for rightful compensation. This requires the help of a bike accident attorney. If you or a loved one has a big or small injury caused by a bike accident due to the negligence of another party, don’t hesitate to take action.
At our firm, we will guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. We establish liability, quantify your damages, and negotiate proper compensation. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your options.
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