Cycling is a favorite mode of transportation in urban and peri-urban areas. Unfortunately, cyclists are susceptible to accidents where they can sustain severe injuries.
If you were in a bicycle crash, you could hold the at-fault party accountable for harming you. A bicycle accident lawyer can investigate and file a compensation claim, so you get restitution for medical treatment and other damages.
Protective Measures for Cyclists
There is cause for concern regarding the safety of cyclists on the roads. Whether you are cycling for leisure or transportation, here are measures you can take to protect yourself:
- Find a bike that suits your size for better control
- Inspect your bike and do repairs as needed
- Tuck away your laces, tie, and any other loosely hanging item
- Wear safety gear like a helmet, reflective gear, reflectors, etc., to protect and make you visible to other motorists
- Ride in the correct direction on one-way streets
- Use a backpack to carry things or strap them to the back
- Ride with both hands on the handlebars unless you are turning
- Avoid areas with dense traffic and use a bike lane if available
- Keep off sidewalks as they are reserved for pedestrians, and drivers cannot see you
- Follow traffic rules just like other motorists
- Be on the lookout for hazards like potholes, train tracks, etc.
- Avoid distractions that take your focus from the road, like using your phone
For a free legal consultation with a bicycle accidents lawyer serving Columbus-IN, call 800-333-9999
Types of Bicycle Accidents
You could still encounter an accident while riding your bike around campus, residential neighborhood, or the city, even following the above safety precautions. There are various kinds of bicycle accidents, as follows:
Bicyclist vs. Motorist
These sorts of accidents are common on busy roads in urban areas. They happen when a bicycle and another car crash for one reason or another. For instance, a cyclist could be getting out of a bike lane to merge with traffic. Similarly, a vehicle can also get off the road to park at its destination and crash into a cyclist.
Bicyclist vs. Local Government
Potholes, uncovered storm drains, poor drainage systems, open sewers, etc., are all hazards for cyclists. You may encounter an accident on your own due to poor road maintenance or uneven bike lanes. A lawyer can help you sue the city for your injuries, lost income, and other damages.
Bicyclist vs. Bicyclist
Two cyclists can crash into one another while approaching from different directions at high speeds. Fortunately, victims of these collisions don’t typically incur serious harm as the impact forces are considerably less than when a vehicle is involved.
Bicyclist vs. Manufacturer
It’s not uncommon for automobile manufacturers to recall specific models after they are deemed defective. The same can happen to bicycles, only that some people can encounter injury before the manufacturer realizes or owns up to their mishap. A lawyer can examine the company’s safety report and consumer complaints and establish a pattern.
Pedestrian vs. Bicyclist
Some parts of the city or school campus lack pedestrian and bicycle lanes, so they all end up in the same place. Sharing space with pedestrians exposes you to accidents as some people are oblivious of cyclists and refuse to yield even after warning bells. The authorities often find such a cyclist at fault for the accident.
Columbus-IN Bicycle Accident Lawyer Near Me 800-333-9999
Steps To Take Following a Bicycle Accident
Crashing into a vehicle with your bicycle can be traumatic, not to mention the imminent danger of being hit by other cars in traffic. This unexpected incident can shake you to the core, leaving you disoriented for a moment. It’s prudent that you take these steps right away:
Report the Accident to the Police
Bicycle accidents may not appear serious from an onlooker’s perspective, but you are better safe than sorry. Call the police to determine what happened and file an accident report.
Call Your Insurance
Another important person to call is your insurance agent to inform them of what happened. This incident comes with medical bills, and you may not have the resources. Ask if you can use homeowners’ insurance while waiting for the compensation claim to materialize.
Document Your Injuries
Don’t be fooled by the relentless apologies you get from the motorist at the accident scene. People’s attitudes usually change when they are presented with compensation suits. During legal proceedings, images of your injuries and the accident scene are irrefutable proof of your injuries.
Seek Medical Intervention
Once the preliminaries are done, get medical assistance to manage your injuries. The last thing you want is something minor progressing into a significant medical crisis that can derail your plans further. Keep all medical records and expenses for future reference.
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Contact Isaacs & Isaacs Personal Injury Lawyers for Legal Counsel
Bicycle accidents can leave you with minor to major injuries, and in extreme cases, victims perish. Determining who is at fault is not always straightforward, and the other party may refuse to pay. Isaacs & Isaacs Personal Injury Lawyers have a wealth of experience handling such cases and winning significant settlements for clients.
We don’t charge any fees unless we win or settle your case. Contact us for a free consultation and legal counsel.
Call or text 800-333-9999 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
