Quality Legal Representation for Bicycle Accidents
A dramatic increase in bicyclists has surged across the nation, brought on in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and heightened anxiety over public transportation. Motorists must share the road safely with bicyclists, but unfortunately, many drivers fail to do so. People injured in a bicycle accident may be able to recover compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering by filing a personal injury claim with the help of an experienced attorney.
Common Types of Bicycle Accidents
Most bicycle wrecks involve a collision between a bicycle and a vehicle. These accidents generally occur when drivers of vehicles are careless, reckless, or negligent behind the wheel. Most of these accidents are preventable. With little protection from oncoming automobiles, trucks, or other types of vehicles, cyclists often sustain severe and multiple injuries, such as catastrophic traumatic brain injuries, fractures, burns, lacerations, spinal cord injuries, disfigurement, amputations, and paralysis. In the worst-case scenario, a loved one may sustain fatal injuries. In a single moment, an accident can change a life forever.
Common Causes of Accidents Include:
- Vehicles drifting into bike lanes
- Failing to yield on right and left-hand turns
- Rear-ending a bicyclist
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Distracted driving
- Poor visibility
- Opening a car door without looking (i.e., a bike hitting a car door when a driver opens it into traffic)
- Crosswalk accidents
- Cycling team accidents
- Hit-and-run accidents
Liability for Losses
In addition to an opposing driver violating road rules, other parties may be legally responsible for a bicycle accident. The bicycle manufacturer may be found negligent in a product liability claim for selling defective bicycles or parts, causing a malfunction and a collision. An employer may have vicarious liability if an employee negligently hits a bicyclist while on the job. A public or private entity may have liability in a bicycle accident claim if they improperly design or maintain the roadway, contributing to an accident.
Safety Tips for Cyclists
- Check Equipment: Always make sure all the parts of the bicycle function correctly and are not broken before getting on the road. Inspect the gears, chains, and brakes. Next, make sure the bike is adjusted correctly to fit the rider, such as the seat height and handlebars. Get a good helmet. Make sure the helmet is the proper size and is not outdated. Make sure it fits firmly and does not slide around while riding.
- Know the Rules of the Road: Become familiar with the local and state laws for riding bicycles on public streets. Most areas require bicyclists to follow the same rules as motor vehicles. Knowing the rules will help you ride defensively.
- Be Mindful of the time: Be conscientious of the time of day you choose to go for a ride. Rush hour, dusk, and dawn make it more likely that drivers will not be able to see you on the road.
The Buffalo Injury Law Firm is Dedicated to Representing Cyclists
Even if you wear a helmet and other protective gear, you can still end up with severe injuries when hit by a vehicle. Our legal team thoroughly investigates bicycle accidents to determine the cause of the collision and the damages to make an accurate valuation of your losses. We help our clients navigate the legal process and aggressively negotiate with the insurance companies to protect against undervaluing, denying, or delaying the claim. We are prepared to go to trial, if necessary, to protect your interests.
If you or a family member is injured in a bicycle accident, call The Buffalo Injury Law Firm today at (716) 646-8412 to discuss your legal options with an experienced personal injury attorney. We offer a free case evaluation and serve clients in Western New York, including Buffalo, Rochester, Erie, and Monroe Counties.