Did Someone Else’s Carelessness Cause Your Bike Accident?
Central Indiana has a love affair with biking. Cycling used to be just a hobby, but now it is much more. It is a lifestyle for many people. That popularity means there are more bikes on our roads.
As the number of bikers increases, they face more risks than ever. There are more cars and trucks on our streets and roads, too, and drivers are getting more aggressive and less attentive. That is a bad combination, especially for bike riders.
If you were hurt while you were biking because of someone else’s negligence, contact our lawyers at Allen Wellman Harvey Keyes Cooley, LLP, and let’s discuss your options.
Mistakes Cause Damages, Injuries And Death
Bikers need to avoid the hazards on the road, including distracted drivers. Inattentive motorists can be hard to escape, and they cause most of the accidents for bikers.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics, bicycle injuries and deaths are rising. On average, over 500,000 biking injuries result in hospital or emergency room visits annually. Bike accidents cost billions of dollars.
Common causes of bike-related accidents include:
- Inattentive drivers
- Speeding vehicles
- Cars crowding bike lanes and curbs
- Drivers not honoring a biker’s right of way
- Road and weather conditions
Unfortunately, any kind of negligence increases the risk of injury for everyone involved.
Common Injuries Cyclists Suffer In Bike Accidents
Cycling accidents can lead to a range of injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Fractures
- Sprains and strains
- Cuts and bruises
- Road rash
- Neck and back injuries
- Internal injuries
- Crushing injuries
If you are a cyclist injured in an accident, understanding the nature and severity of your injury can help provide a basis for the compensation you deserve. Consult an experienced personal injury lawyer from Allen Wellman Harvey Keyes Cooley, LLP, to learn more about your accident claim.
Are Cyclists Legally Required To Wear Helmets In Indiana?
In Indiana, there is no state law requiring cyclists to wear helmets. Nevertheless, wearing a helmet is strongly advisable for safety reasons. Some local ordinances may have specific rules regarding helmet use, especially for minors.
What if you were not wearing a helmet during your accident? Will it affect your ability to collect compensation? Not wearing a helmet can potentially affect compensation claims, but this depends on various factors and the specifics of your case.
In Indiana, where helmet use is not mandatory, failing to wear a helmet may not directly impact the ability to receive compensation for injuries. However, if the lack of a helmet is deemed partially to blame for the severity of your injuries, then it might be considered during the evaluation of the claim. In any case, it’s important to consult a personal injury attorney who can assess your case thoroughly.
Bikers Have The Same Rights As Everyone Else
As a biker, you have all the rights and responsibilities drivers have. Drivers don’t always honor your right to the road. If you were hit while riding your bike, you likely suffered injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening. You also have the right to hire an attorney who can help recover your losses.
Accidents can be avoided if everyone follows the rules. However, you cannot count on everyone’s attentiveness. You followed the rules of the road, you wore a helmet and rode defensively. None of that matters if a careless or distracted driver hits you. We can work with you to get the compensation you need.
We Will Help You Pursue Compensation For All Your Damages
When a bicyclist is hurt in an accident, their damages can vary widely based on the circumstances and the severity of the incident. Common damages include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
As with any kind of accident, it’s vital to work with a skilled bike accident lawyer who can accurately assess your damages and ensure comprehensive representation in the claim process. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team as soon as possible.
Your Justice Begins When You Contact Our Greenfield Offices
If you or a family member were injured in a bicycle accident, you have rights. Your losses could include medical responsibilities, lost wages, rehabilitation and funeral costs. We can also file cases if you have had a loved one who died due to a bicycle accident.
The process can be overwhelming, but we can help you recover the settlement you need. We support clients throughout central Indiana from our offices in Greenfield. Call 317-468-2355 or email us.