Biking Accidents
Many people choose to travel by bicycle within their city. Not only is riding a bike great exercise, it is also much less expensive than traveling by car. While many bicycle riders reach their destinations safely each day, some are hit by drivers who are negligent and accidents happen. The following is an overview of biking accidents and how those who are hurt may be able to obtain compensation for their injuries and accident-related expenses. If you or someone close to you has been hurt while riding a bike, it may be helpful to speak with a lawyer to discuss your options.
Biking Accident Causes
There is so much traffic on the roads today, it is little wonder accidents are commonplace. While biking accidents can occur in many ways, the following are the most common:
- Distracted Drivers
- Failure To Look For Bicycle Riders When Opening Car Doors
- Aggressive Driving
- Driving Under The Influence Of Drugs Or Alcohol
- Speeding
- Driver Fatigue
In many cases, bicyclists are hurt because the roads and sidewalks have not been maintained in the proper manner. In these cases, government agencies may be held liable for the cyclists injuries.
Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicyclists are responsible for wearing protective gear so they are not seriously injured in the event of a crash. However, this equipment may not be able to keep injuries from occurring. Some of the most commonly reported bicycle injuries are:
- Head Injuries
- Back And Neck Problems
- Spinal Cord Fractures
- Paralysis
- Facial Fractures
- Broken Bones
- Crush Injuries
The most common cause of serious injury or death after biking accidents is traumatic brain injury. While this is far less common when riders are wearing helmets, they can still occur if the force of impact is great enough. Some people need ongoing medical care or home health care after sustaining a brain injury. This is why it is so important to have an experienced attorney working to protect your interests both in and out of the courtroom.
How Long to File a Biking Accident Lawsuit
Bicycle accident victims must be sure to file their lawsuit in court within the appropriate statute of limitations for the state in which they reside. If the lawsuit is to be filed against a government agency or entity, victims may have less time to file a claim. To be sure you do not lose the right to have your case heard, it is best to hire an attorney who knows how long you have to file your claim. Failing to adhere to the statute of limitations will most likely mean your case will be thrown out of court.
Contact Our Biking Accident Attorney
Biking accidents can be traumatic and stressful both for the victim and their loved ones. If you sustained injuries in this kind of accident, contact James (Jamie) W. Sutton III, Attorney-at-Law, for advice. After speaking with you in a consultation, we will let you know if you have a valid claim and discuss the steps that should be taken to recover what you may be entitled to. While winning a financial award may not restore your health or replace all you have lost, it can help you move ahead after recovery so you can live a full and happy life. Our law firm is located in Feasterville, Pennsylvania, though we serve clients throughout the state, including residents of Bensalem and Levittown.
