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 small 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, small injuries, and potential losses.
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 result from 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.
When a bike accident results in minor injuries, such as a strain or sprain, many people assume the injuries are not serious enough to warrant any action. However, even small injuries require attention and can lead to losses.
One important step is to file a claim with the insurance company of the party at fault. Ideally, if the insurance company promptly settles the claim, the process can be straightforward. However, there are situations where it’s advisable to seek the assistance of an Ohio bike accident attorney:
Always take steps to protect your rights so that you can get compensation for any medical bills and other losses, even if your injuries seem relatively minor.
After a bike accident that involves minor injuries, you need a medical evaluation. This is because insignificant injuries like tissue bruises can potentially lead to more complicated issues later on. A medical evaluation can help uncover these hidden injuries and ensure they are properly treated before they worsen.
For example, a concussion may not exhibit severe symptoms immediately, but without proper medical care, it can lead to complications, which can be a serious health issue.
Importantly, when you seek medical attention, you create a record of your injuries, which is very key should you pursue a personal injury claim. Medical records will bolster your claim by indicating the extent and severity of your injuries.
After suffering injuries following a bike accident in Ohio due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover various damages. These include the following:
An Ohio bike accident attorney can help you determine the worth of your claim to ensure that the settlement you receive is a reflection of the full extent of your losses. They have the resources to gather evidence to support your claim for damages for fair compensation.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel with us right now!
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.
Before establishing Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz L.P.A., Doug Mann, a top Ohio Injury Attorney served as a bodily injury claims adjuster at a major insurance firm. With over 40+ years of experience, Doug’s background has proven invaluable in securing maximum cash settlements for his clients swiftly. Since leaving the insurance industry, Doug has devoted his entire legal career to assisting injured clients during their times of greatest need.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Doug Mann who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a practicing personal injury attorney.
Keep up to Date with Our Newest Firm Updates
A truck accident in Dayton, Ohio can turn your life upside down in seconds. The physical pain, emotional shock, and financial fallout can feel overwhelming. In the aftermath, understanding truck […]
Dog bites are not only a painful experience but also a serious public health issue, especially when they go unreported. Which states require doctors to report dog bites is one […]
Neck pain after a car accident isn’t just common—it’s one of the most alarming symptoms people report in the hours or days following a crash. The discomfort can range from […]
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, please fill out the form below for your free consultation or call us at 1.937.222.2222
call us: 1.937.222.2222