Sources have indicated that there are more bicycle riders in California than any other state. Unfortunately for bike riders who enjoy riding their bicycles around California, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has reported that bicycle injuries are on the rise.
As bicycle riders attempt to share the road with other cyclists, motorcycles, cars, trucks, and buses, there is always the chance that an accident will happen, and unfortunately, bicycle accidents tend to result in serious and often permanent injuries.
Bicycle accident victims and their families do not have to face other drivers, insurance companies, and the court system alone. An experienced California bicycle accident lawyer can help protect an accident victim’s legal rights, and help families who have lost a loved one recover for their injuries and losses. To learn more or get started on your claim, consult with a California injury lawyer today.
Common Bike Accident Injuries
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2014 there were more than 48,000 bicycle accident injuries and 677 deaths.
The sheer difference in size, weight, and speed between a bicycle and a car make any accident severe.
In addition, bicycle riders involved in accidents tend to sustain more serious injuries because they are exposed to the road. When a driver does not pay attention to the road they can put bicycle riders at risk for serious injury. Some of the most common bicycle-related injuries include:
- Head injuries
- Neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Road rash
- Knee injuries
- Loss of limbs
Even when a bicycle rider takes all the proper safety precautions such as wearing a helmet and reflective clothing, and using hand signals, bicycle riders are less visible on the road. When a driver is not paying attention to the road, they can crash into a cyclist, which unfortunately often results in significant and life-threatening injuries and even death.
A California bicycle accident lawyer can help bicycle accident victims and their families hold negligent drivers responsible for their actions and can help recover compensation for injuries and losses.
Compensation for an Accident in California
Bicycle accidents can happen for a number of reasons, such as when a driver fails to stop at a traffic signal, is texting or distracted, or is driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances.
While there are countless reasons behind an accident, bicycle accident victims often are left with substantial medical bills, miss significant time away from work, and can even face permanent injuries. A bicycle accident victim and the victim’s family are entitled to recover certain damages for injuries and expenses including:
- Hospital and medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost future wages
- Past and future permanent physical disabilities
- Emotional pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
A California bicycle accident lawyer will work with a bicycle accident victim and their family to determine what types of compensation they may be entitled to.
An experienced bicycle accident lawyer in California will help victims gather the crucial evidence they need to prove their case and hold negligent drivers responsible for their carelessness.
Talk to a California Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
Every bicycle accident is different and a bicycle accident victim will have to prove their case, which can be daunting particularly after suffering a traumatic accident. An experienced California bicycle accident lawyer will work with experts to review and gather evidence, medical records, and work with insurance companies to ensure that the injured and their families receive the compensation they deserve.
