Our Lehigh Acres bicycle accident lawyer can answer your questions and explain your options after a bicycle crash. Cycling has become an increasingly popular way to travel, but unfortunately, with the increase in cyclists on the road, the number of bicycle accidents has also risen. These accidents can happen quickly, leaving riders with injuries that may have lasting effects.
At Viles & Beckman LLC, we understand the difficulties associated with such accidents, which is why we prioritize a 5-star Client Experience. Our team is committed to providing personalized attention, empathetic support, and expert legal guidance throughout the legal process. Our Lehigh Acres personal injury lawyer is here to help you recover and move forward.
Steps to take Immediately After a Bicycle Accident
The aftermath of an accident may leave you dealing with injuries, medical bills, and stress about how to move forward. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle crash, it’s important to take certain steps right away to protect your well-being and ensure you have the support you need throughout the legal process.
- Ensure Your Safety and Get Medical Attention: Get evaluated even if you feel fine after the accident. Injuries like internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries can be hidden at first.
- Document the Scene and Gather Information: Proper documentation is essential for any future legal claim. Gathering information at the scene of the accident can support your case and help determine fault.
- Contact a Lehigh Acres Bicycle Accident Lawyer: Insurance companies, medical bills, and determining liability can be complicated, and having someone on your side can provide peace of mind.
A bicycle accident lawyer can also ensure that you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, property damage, and any emotional suffering caused by the accident.
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Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, and many of them are linked to factors outside of a cyclist’s control. These are some of the top causes of bicycle accidents:
- Distracted Drivers: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or engaging with in-car entertainment systems are often unaware of their surroundings, including cyclists on the road.
- Negligent or Reckless Driving: Speeding, running red lights, or failing to yield to cyclists in bike lanes increases the risk of collisions.
- Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces can make cycling dangerous.
- Impaired Drivers: Impaired drivers may struggle with concentration, judgment, or reaction time, all of which can make it dangerous for cyclists on the road.
- Failure to Obey Traffic Laws: Cyclists who fail to use bike lanes, disregard traffic signals, or do not wear proper protective gear can increase their chances of getting into a crash.
This is not a comprehensive list. If the cause of your accident does not appear, you may still have a valid claim. A Lehigh Acres bicycle accident attorney can assist you in identifying the cause and helping you understand the types of damages you may be entitled to.
Lehigh Acres
Bicycle Accident
Lawyer Near Me
(239) 334-3933
How Can a Lawyer Determine Liability in Bicycle Accidents?
Determining liability in a bicycle accident can be challenging, but it is an important part of seeking fair compensation for injuries, medical bills, and property damage. A lawyer can help sort through the evidence and determine who is liable for the crash.
Evaluating the Evidence
That includes accident reports, witness statements, photographs of the crash site, and any video footage that may be available. Medical records are also important to show the extent of injuries sustained in the crash.
Assessing the Role of Negligence
Negligence plays a significant role in many bicycle accidents. Negligence occurs when a driver or another party fails to exercise reasonable care and causes harm to others. If a driver was speeding, distracted, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they could be held liable for the crash.
Determining Comparative Fault
In some bicycle accidents, both the cyclist and the driver may share some responsibility. Florida’s comparative negligence laws allow for the apportioning of fault between the involved parties. This means that even if the cyclist is partially at fault for the accident, they can still seek compensation from the other responsible party.
For example, if a cyclist was not wearing a helmet or did not use a bike lane, but the driver was also speeding or distracted, the cyclist may still be entitled to compensation for their injuries and losses. A Lehigh Acres bicycle accident lawyer will assess the details of the case and determine the percentage of fault each party holds.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-altering. The impact of a crash, the speed of the vehicle involved, and the rider’s protective gear all influence the extent of the injuries. Some common injuries include:
- Neck and back injuries: Whiplash and other neck injuries are common in bicycle accidents.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): These injuries can have long-term effects on cognitive function, memory, and quality of life.
- Spinal cord injuries: Accidents that involve a sudden impact or fall can cause damage to the spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis or other permanent disabilities.
- Fractures and broken bones: Cyclists are at high risk of fractures in their arms, legs, ribs, or collarbones due to the nature of bicycle accidents.
- Internal injuries: Accidents may also cause internal injuries, such as internal bleeding or organ damage.
These injuries can come with expensive medical bills and have long-lasting effects on your health and finances. A bicycle accident lawyer serving Lehigh Acres can assess your situation and help you put together a case for damages.
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The Importance of having a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Lehigh Acres
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, having a lawyer by your side can make a significant difference in your ability to recover compensation. A Lehigh Acres bicycle accident attorney can walk you through each step of the legal process, from filing a claim to negotiating with insurance companies.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lawyer at Viles & Beckman for a free consultation. We will help you understand the legal process and explore your options for recovery.
Call or text (239) 334-3933 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form