Riding a bicycle can be a great form of exercise and a convenient mode of transportation. Unfortunately, accidents do happen, and when they involve a bicycle, the result can be disastrous. If you or a loved one has been involved in an Ohio bicycle accident, it is important to seek the advice of a knowledgeable attorney who can help you obtain the compensation you deserve. As skilled Ohio bicycle accident lawyers, we understand the unique challenges involved in these types of cases and are committed to advocating for our clients. With 65 years of experience and expertise, we can help you navigate the legal system and achieve the best possible outcome for your situation. Don’t let the aftermath of a bicycle accident leave you feeling helpless; let us help you get the justice you deserve.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Car-bicycle accidents are common and often preventable. Drivers and cyclists must take extra precautions to ensure safety on the road. By understanding the top causes and places of car-bicycle accidents, drivers and cyclists can make safer and more responsible decisions and travel more confidently to their destinations.
Speeding is a major cause of car-bicycle accidents.
Recent statistics show speeding is one of the most common causes of car-bicycle accidents. These accidents can lead to serious and sometimes fatal injuries for both the driver and the cyclist. The consequences of speeding can be devastating, particularly when it comes to sharing the road with others. It is essential for drivers and cyclists to be aware of their surroundings, obey traffic laws, and be mindful of each other’s movements. Ultimately, preventing car-bicycle accidents caused by speeding requires a collaborative effort from all road users to ensure everyone’s safety.
Reckless driving is another cause of car-bicycle accidents.
Reckless driving has been identified as a major contributing factor in car-bicycle accidents. This dangerous behavior encompasses many actions, from running stop signs or red lights to making hasty turns without signaling. Reckless drivers exhibit a blatant disregard for their surroundings, and by doing so, they endanger themselves and other drivers and cyclists on the road. The consequences of reckless driving can be fatal, making it essential for all drivers to practice safe and responsible behavior behind the wheel.
Drunken and distracted driving are also major causes of car-bicycle accidents.
Drunken and distracted driving are two of the deadliest causes of car-bicycle accidents. Drivers who operate a vehicle after consuming alcohol or drugs not only put themselves at risk but also pose a danger to cyclists who share the roads with them. Their judgment and reactions are impaired, making it more challenging for them to avoid collisions with cyclists. The same is true for drivers who engage in distracted driving. These individuals become less aware of their surroundings, increasing the likelihood of an accident. As such, it is crucial that drivers remain vigilant and refrain from these dangerous behaviors to protect their own safety and that of the cyclists they encounter.
Common Areas of Car-Bicycle Accidents
Car-bicycle accidents can happen anywhere at any time, but there are several common areas where they tend to occur most frequently. These areas include intersections, bike lanes, and areas where the road narrows, such as bridges or underpasses. It is important for both drivers and cyclists to be aware of these potential danger zones and to take extra precautions when navigating them. Staying alert, following traffic laws, and using proper cycling signals can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of everyone on the road. By understanding and actively working to avoid these common areas of car-bicycle accidents, we can all contribute to a safer and more harmonious relationship between cars and bicycles on the road.
Many car-bicycle accidents occur in various areas, including:
1. Bike lanes
2. City streets without bike lanes
3. Intersections
4. School and pedestrian crossing zones
5. Parks and playgrounds
6. Driveway and parking lot entries onto public streets
These areas pose a higher risk of accidents. Both drivers and cyclists need to exercise caution when traveling through them. Here are some important considerations:
– Drivers should be aware of bike lanes and provide cyclists with sufficient space, especially when passing them.
– Cyclists should follow traffic rules and adopt a defensive riding approach to minimize the risk of car accidents.
The Serious Consequences of Bicycle Accidents
Injured bike accident victims are at a greater risk of suffering very serious injuries due to the size discrepancy between the cyclist and the car. Unfortunately, cyclists have virtually no protection in such a crash, leaving them vulnerable to life-altering injuries. These can range from broken bones and severe abrasions to more serious conditions such as traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage. Thus, it is important for all drivers to approach cyclists with caution and respect, taking extra care to avoid accidents that may have fatal consequences.
Bone Fractures
Bone fractures are one of the most common injuries sustained by bicycle accident victims. Depending on the severity, fracture injuries can be mild or serious, requiring long periods of physical therapy or even surgery. The impact of a vehicle hitting a cyclist can cause multiple fractures, such as broken arms, legs, wrists, collarbones, and even ribs. These injuries can lead to missed work, lost wages, and long-term pain and suffering.
Amputations
Serious damage to limbs that require amputation is another potential consequence of a bicycle accident. If the impact of a vehicle is high-speed and forceful, it may crush or otherwise maim a limb beyond repair. Losing an arm or leg can be life-changing, requiring extensive rehabilitation and prosthetics to be able to return to life activities before the accident. Victims may require months of recovery and adjustment as they learn to live with their new disabilities.
Internal Organ Damage
Internal organ injuries are also common in bicycle accidents. The impact of the body hitting the ground or a vehicle can result in internal bleeding or damage. These injuries can be life-threatening and may require immediate medical attention. Some internal injuries can be treated by surgery, but others may be fatal if not treated promptly.
Back and Neck Injuries
Back and neck injuries are also common in bicycle accidents. These types of injuries may be caused by the body’s impact in the fall or caused by making sudden movements to avoid a motor vehicle. Back and neck injuries can be linked to nerve damage as well as chronic pain. These types of injuries may require months or years of physical therapy and rehabilitation to manage, and some may lead to lifelong disabilities.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
A bicycle accident can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBI) like concussions and skull fractures. These injuries have the potential to be life-threatening and negatively impact a person’s ability to function. When the head hits the ground or a vehicle, irreversible brain damage can occur, resulting in permanent physical and cognitive disabilities. According to the National Highway and Safety Association, traumatic brain injury is the leading cause of wrongful death for bicyclists.
Apart from emergency surgeries, bicycle accident victims may require reconstructive surgery and post-operative treatment, which may involve cosmetic procedures and rehabilitative therapy. Recovery often involves missing work for extended periods, leading to significant financial consequences for victims and their families. Victims who suffer severe brain damage may never be able to live a normal life again.
Legal Damages and Insurance Companies
In a bike accident case, several legal damages may be recovered, including lost income, pain and suffering, disability payments, wrongful death damages, and punitive damages. Lost income includes wages and benefits lost due to the victim’s inability to work, such as health insurance or retirement benefits. Pain and suffering compensate victims for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident, while disability payments may apply if the victim is unable to work again. Family survivors can claim wrongful death damages to cover funeral expenses and compensation for the loss of consortium. Lastly, punitive damages may be awarded if the at-fault driver acted with gross negligence or intentional misconduct.
Challenges with Insurance Companies
Bike accident victims often face challenges and overwhelming situations when dealing with insurance companies. Insurance adjusters frequently attempt to shift blame onto the cyclist or delay claims, causing exhaustion for the victim and their family. Remember, insurance adjusters prioritize the interests of the company, not yours. Therefore, hiring an experienced bike accident lawyer who can represent you is crucial. A skilled lawyer will aid you in navigating the legal system and advocating for the compensation and benefits you rightfully deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Beware of Low-Ball Settlement Offers
Insurance adjusters may also try to tempt bike accident victims with low-ball settlement offers, hoping for their acceptance and the waiver of future compensation rights. Don’t fall for this. Always consult with an experienced attorney before accepting any insurance settlement. An attorney will assist you in evaluating your claim and determining the true value of the damages you’ve experienced, such as medical expenses, property damage, lost income, and pain and suffering. Additionally, an attorney will communicate with insurance companies to ensure a fair settlement covering all your losses.
Get the Justice and Compassion You Deserve After a Bicycle Accident
A bicycle accident can be a traumatic experience, both physically and emotionally. When seeking compensation, it’s important to have a competent and compassionate lawyer on your side who can guide you through the legal process. Our law firm in Ohio understands the challenges involved in recovering what you deserve and is committed to providing the support you need. With years of experience and a dedicated team of professionals, we have the skills and resources to handle even the most complex cases. You don’t have to suffer alone – contact us today at 419-843-6663 or through our online contact form. We are here to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
