Bicycling can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors, get exercise, and commute to work or school. However, when a cyclist is involved in an accident, the results can be devastating – both physically and emotionally. That’s when you need the help of a competent Spring Bicycle Accident Lawyer. With years of experience and extensive knowledge of bicycle accident laws, Joe I. Zaid & Associates is here to help victims get the compensation they deserve.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
Each year, thousands of cyclists are injured or killed in accidents involving motor vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 846 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes in the United States in 2019 alone. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there were 494,000 emergency department visits due to bicycle-related injuries in that same year.
These statistics highlight the dangers that cyclists face on the road. Bicycle accidents can result in severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and internal organ damage. In the worst cases, these accidents can be fatal.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
There are several factors that can contribute to a bicycle accident, including:
-
Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise not paying attention to the road can easily miss a cyclist and cause an accident.
-
Failure to yield: Many bicycle accidents occur at intersections when a motorist fails to yield the right of way to a cyclist.
-
Dooring accidents: Dooring accidents occur when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, causing the cyclist to collide with the door.
-
Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, and other hazardous road conditions can cause a cyclist to lose control and fall or swerve into the path of a motor vehicle.
-
Speeding: Drivers who are traveling at excessive speeds may not have enough time to react to avoid a collision with a cyclist.
-
Drunk driving: Alcohol-impaired drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents, including those involving bicycles.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
-
Medical expenses: This includes the cost of hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any other treatment needed for the injuries sustained in the accident.
-
Lost wages: If the injured party is unable to work due to their injuries, they may be entitled to compensation for the wages they would have earned during that time.
-
Pain and suffering: This includes compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress experienced as a result of the accident.
-
Loss of enjoyment of life: In some cases, a victim may be entitled to compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life due to the limitations imposed by their injuries.
-
Property damage: If the victim’s bicycle or other personal property was damaged in the accident, they may be entitled to compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.
How a Spring Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Hiring a skilled Spring Bicycle Accident Lawyer like those at Joe I. Zaid & Associates can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here’s how they can help:
-
Investigate the accident: A thorough investigation is crucial to determining who was at fault in a bicycle accident. Your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review police reports to build a strong case on your behalf.
-
Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize the amount they pay out in bicycle accident claims. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
-
Determine the value of your claim: An experienced attorney can accurately assess the value of your claim, taking into account all forms of compensation to which you may be entitled.
-
Represent you in court: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will present your case in court and advocate for your rights, working to secure the best possible outcome for you.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
If you are involved in a bicycle accident, it is important to take the following steps to protect your rights and preserve evidence:
-
Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
-
Exchange information: Obtain the contact information of the driver involved in the accident, as well as their insurance information.
-
Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to your bicycle and the motor vehicle involved, as well as any visible injuries.
-
Seek medical treatment: Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
-
Do not discuss the accident: Avoid discussing the details of the accident with the driver involved or their insurance company, as anything you say may be used against you later.
-
Contact a Spring Bicycle Accident Lawyer: Consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options and begin the process of pursuing compensation for your injuries.
Conclusion
Bicycle accidents can have life-altering consequences, and it is crucial to have the support of a knowledgeable Spring Bicycle Accident Lawyer to help you navigate the legal process. At Joe I. Zaid & Associates, our Houston Personal Injury Attorneys are committed to your case and will provide aggressive representation to help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us by calling (346) 756-9243 or visiting our office at 4710 Vista Rd. Suite E Pasadena, TX 77505.
