Cycling is an eco-friendly, healthy, and enjoyable mode of transportation. However, sharing the road with cars comes with risks.
Every year, thousands of cyclists suffer serious injuries due to reckless drivers, poor road conditions, or other hazards. A bicycle accident can leave you with devastating injuries, costly medical bills, and financial instability.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bike mishap caused by someone else’s negligence, hiring a bicycle accident attorney is one of the best steps you can take. An experienced lawyer will hold the responsible party accountable.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
1. Driver negligence
Motorists are often at fault for bicycle crashes due to:
- Distracted driving – Using cellphones, texting, or adjusting the GPS can cause drivers to miss cyclists.
- Speeding – Drivers going too fast may not have enough time to react to a cyclist.
- Failure to yield – Many drivers ignore stop signs or fail to yield the right of way to cyclists.
- Dooring accidents – A driver opening their car door into a cyclist’s path can cause severe injuries.
2. Poor road conditions
Hazards such as potholes, broken pavement, or poorly marked bike lanes can lead to accidents. In such cases, the government or municipality responsible for road maintenance may be liable.
3. Defective bicycle or equipment
Sometimes, a bicycle accident is caused by a faulty bike or defective safety gear. If a manufacturing defect has contributed to the crash, the manufacturer could be held accountable.
4. Reckless pedestrians or other cyclists
Unexpected pedestrian behavior, such as walking into a bike lane without looking, can lead to a serious collision. Other cyclists not following traffic rules can also cause crashes.
Types of Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
- Head and Brain Injuries – Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and skull fractures.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – This leads to paralysis or permanent disability.
- Broken Bones – Collisions often result in fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, or collarbone.
- Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries – Cyclists who fall onto the pavement may suffer severe skin abrasions, requiring medical treatment.
- Internal bleeding and organ damage – These internal Injuries may not be immediately visible.
If you’ve sustained any of these injuries due to someone else’s negligence, seeking legal representation is crucial.
What Injured Cyclists Must Do After a Bicycle Accident
1) Seek immediate medical attention
Even if you feel fine, some injuries (like concussions or internal bleeding) may not show symptoms right away. A doctor’s report is also essential evidence for your claim.
2) Call the police
A police report will serve as the accident’s official record. This can also help establish fault.
3) Gather evidence at the scene
If possible, collect:
- Photos of the bike accident scene, bike damage, and your injuries.
- Contact information of witnesses
- The driver’s name, contact details, and other pertinent information
4) Do not admit fault
Even a simple apology could be used against you in a legal claim. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police and insurance companies.
5) Contact a bicycle accident attorney
The sooner you seek expert legal help, the stronger your case will be. An attorney will handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovery.
Qualities of a Great Bicycle Accident Attorney
When choosing a bicycle accident lawyer, it’s essential to look for qualities that ensure they can effectively handle your case.
Here are the key traits of a top-tier attorney:
1. Experience in bicycle accident cases
Not all personal injury lawyers specialize in bicycle accident claims. A great attorney will have extensive experience handling cases specifically related to bicycle crashes, understanding the unique challenges cyclists face on the road.
Why it matters:
- Familiarity with bike laws and traffic regulations
- Knowledge of common cycling accident scenarios
- Experience dealing with insurance companies that often blame cyclists
2. Strong negotiation skills
Most insurance companies will offer low settlements or even shift blame onto cyclists. A skilled bike accident lawyer is well-equipped to negotiate a fair settlement.
Why it matters:
- Ensures you receive maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Prevents insurance adjusters from manipulating you into accepting less than you deserve
- Can use medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony to strengthen your case
3. Trial experience
Some bicycle accident cases may require litigation. A great attorney should be prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.
Why it matters:
- Ensures you are not forced into an unfair agreement
- Shows the opposing side that you mean business
4. Client-focused approach
A great attorney prioritizes your needs and is compassionate about your situation. Bicycle accidents can cause severe injuries, trauma, and financial stress, so you need independent bicycle accident attorneys who genuinely care.
What to look for:
- Clear and open communication (keeps you updated on your case)
- Empathy and understanding (acknowledges your pain and suffering)
- Accessibility (responds promptly to your questions and concerns)
5. Ability to handle complex cases
Some bicycle accident cases involve multiple parties, such as:
- Negligent drivers
- Government agencies (for poor road conditions)
- Bicycle manufacturers (if defective equipment caused the crash)
A great attorney knows how to navigate these complexities and hold the right parties accountable.
Why this matters:
- Ensures all responsible parties are identified
- Helps you recover full compensation from multiple sources
- Prevents insurance companies from shifting blame onto you
Conclusion
A bicycle accident, in a split second, can turn your life upside down, but you don’t have to face the challenges alone. A great bicycle accident attorney can fight for your rights. They will help you recover the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a cycling accident, don’t wait—contact an attorney at Sweet Lawyers today.
