Bicycling is a great way to travel, stay active, and protect the environment. Unfortunately, it is also hazardous for riders. The small size and low profile of bikes mean that drivers often cannot see them until it is too late. If you are one of the many cyclists on the road each day, you could be an accident victim.
If you need legal help after an accident, contact a York bicycle accident lawyer at Clark & Howell. You need legal representation from a local personal injury attorney who knows what cyclists face on our state’s roads and highways and could help you get the compensation you need for your injuries.
The first visit is free, and we handle all cases on contingency, so you will not pay until we settle or win your case. Call to make an appointment today.
On York’s roads, distracted drivers cause most bike accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Our lawyers at Clark & Howell could explain this to you in more detail. Many drivers text, talk on their phones, or eat, so they may not notice a bike rider until it is too late.
To protect yourself and minimize the risk of injury, always wear protective equipment and follow safe cycling practices whenever you are on the road. Statistically, you are more likely to get hurt:
Most states do not require adults to wear a helmet while cycling, but you should do so anyway. Your head is the most vulnerable part of your body in any accident, and a helmet protects your skull and face from falls if you hit a curb or road debris.
Bicycle riders have the same responsibilities and rights on the road as anyone else operating a vehicle. If you are obeying the rules of the road and another vehicle hits you, the other driver is liable for your injuries. Unlike a two-car collision, a cyclist will probably suffer more serious injuries, even in a minor accident.
Proving legal responsibility in a bike crash in York is the same as in any other vehicle accident. After the accident, you should seek medical treatment immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries, such as soft-tissue damage, can take hours or even days to develop.
After an accident on the road, state law requires those involved to call law enforcement if there are injuries or property damage greater than $2,000. You should get the other driver’s insurance information, if possible. Some auto insurance policies cover collisions between cars and bicycles, so both parties should check with their insurers.
If you can, take photos of the accident scene. Getting pictures of any debris on the road or visual obstructions can be helpful for your case. Try to get any witness names and contact information. Bring all this to your first meeting with your attorney.
After a bicycle accident, you should speak to a York bicycle accident attorney immediately. The other party’s insurer may want to settle your case quickly or attempt to blame you for partially causing the accident. You need legal advice from the experienced attorneys at Clark & Howell.
Once you bring us your case, we will review all the facts and give you our best advice on how to proceed with your claim. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is six years from the date of the accident, so you have some time, but you should still see us right away. Your consultation is free, so contact us today.
207-363-5208
207-363-5208