Cycling is a simple but efficient way of exercising or commuting. Bicycles are excellent for the environment. However, a crash during a leisure ride or commute can cause severe injuries and trauma. You shouldn't bear the brunt of a bicycle accident, especially if a negligent driver was responsible. To receive a settlement amount that befits your damages, it'll be best to hire one of the many top bicycle accident attorneys in Lancaster, PA.

Bicycle accidents injure 100s of riders in Pennsylvania annually. 1,020 bicycle accidents and 16 fatalities were recorded across the state in 2019. The following year, there were 819 accidents with 22 deaths.

Severe bicycle accidents can have grave financial implications for the victims. Thus, consider hiring a top bicycle accident attorney to help you get compensation for your medical bills and other related expenses.

This guide examines the main causes of bike accidents and what you'd need to consider when hiring a bicycle accident attorney.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

The most common causes of bicycle accidents include:

1. Inattentive Driving

Most accidents involving a bicycle and car are due to distracted or inattentive driving.

Texting, eating, and other driving habits affecting driver focus can make it challenging to spot bicyclists until it is late. Parked vehicles can also injure a bicyclist if the driver opens the door onto the path of an oncoming rider.

2. Drunk Driving

People driving under the influence of alcohol or other mind-altering substances threaten cyclists' safety.

Collisions involving drunk drivers can result in severe accidents, and in some cases, the at-fault driver might flee the accident scene to avoid prosecution or liability.

3. Traffic Law Ignorance

Many drivers are unaware that bicyclists are subject to the same traffic regulations as motorists. Bicyclists are expected to observe the "right of way" and obey road signs like every other road user.

However, many drivers view bicyclists as pedestrians rather than motorists, leading to avoidable accidents.

Cases of aggressive driving, like intentionally running a cyclist off the road or throwing an object onto a cyclist’s path, can also cause accidents.

4. Non-Motorable Roads, Weather, or Bicycle Conditions

Poorly-maintained roads can also contribute to bicycle accidents. Here, plaintiffs can file a lawsuit against the government agency responsible for road maintenance.

Additionally, riding your bicycle in inclement weather can increase accident risk.

If the bicycle's components contributed to the accident, you might have a case against the manufacturers. To get the ball rolling, contact bicycle accident Lancaster, PA, attorneys.

Notable Injuries From Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists don't have much protection. Thus, a crash can cause serious injuries such as:

  • Fractures
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries (even when the rider wears a helmet)
  • Internal organ damage
  • Back injuries
  • Herniated discs

Hiring a Bicycle Accident Attorney

You'll find many accident attorneys willing to take up your case. Nonetheless, it's always best to hire the one who gives you the best chance of getting the maximum possible compensation.

Here are some considerations to note when selecting an attorney for your case:

  • Specialization

Any attorney can claim to be able to handle your case, but you want your lawyer to be a specialist in handling bicycle accident cases.

Hiring an expert bicycle accident attorney gives you a higher chance of getting compensation.

  • Experience and Success Rate

Seek context on how long a lawyer has been handling bicycle accident cases before hiring them. Experienced attorneys will probably have dealt with similar lawsuits and will help you negotiate a fitting settlement.

If they've got experience in bicycle accident cases, the next thing you'd want to certify is their success rate. An attorney with a track record of victories should be your preference.

  • Reputation and Reviews

What do previous clients say about the law firm? Were they satisfied with the way the case was handled?

You can check the web for past reviews from clients to help you decide. When you meet a prospective lawyer initially, you can validate their services to know whether they care about your claim or view you as another client.

Damages to Expect From Your Bicycle Accident Case

If you're a bicycle accident victim in Pennsylvania, your lawyer may be able to get you compensation for these damages:

  • Economic Damages

Economic damages cover the cost of your medical bills (present and future), property damages, unpaid wages, disability, and loss of earning potential.

  • Noneconomic Damages

Noneconomic damages cover the cost of non-physical damages (pain and suffering) like mental or emotional distress, reduction of life's quality, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and loss of consortium.

Talk to a Revered Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you have been in a bicycle accident in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to speak to Lancaster, PA, bicycle accident attorneys immediately.

Bicycle accident lawyers at Georgelis Law are experts in related claims and will go the extra mile to grant you fair compensation.

We also offer free consultation. To get the ball rolling, give us a call and we'll get back to you pronto!

FAQs

What's the Deadline to File a Bicycle Accident Claim?

If you're in Lancaster, PA, you have two years from the original bike accident date to file a claim.

Why Should You Hire a Bicycle Accident Attorney?

Hiring a bicycle accident attorney is essential to offset the losses from a crash that wasn't your fault. A top-tier attorney will negotiate with the appropriate parties and get you a fitting settlement amount.