Bicycle collisions are often caused by drivers who violate traffic laws and engage in other dangerous behaviors while driving. If a negligent driver has injured you while riding your bike, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses.

A Modesto bicycle accident lawyer could help you navigate the complex legal process of a bicycle crash claim and advocate for the financial recovery you deserve. Our personal injury attorneys could investigate the crash and represent you in court if necessary.

What Are the Top Causes of Serious Bicycle Crashes?

Auto accidents are very serious for bicyclists, as they are significantly more vulnerable than motorists and have no protection other than a helmet in the event of a crash. Negligent drivers cause bicycle accidents through careless, inattentive, or reckless behavior that puts cyclists at risk. These crashes can often inflict severe or even fatal consequences.

Top causes of bicycle collisions include:

  • Failure to check blind spots, which can lead to hitting a cyclist when making a turn or changing lanes
  • Driving under the influence, which results in impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and reduced coordination
  • Dooring, which occurs when a driver or passenger opens their car door directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist
  • Failure to yield the right-of-way, which is a leading cause of serious collisions with cyclists, especially at intersections
  • Speeding, which can decrease a driver’s reaction time and increase the force of impact in a collision, leading to more severe injuries
  • Distracted driving, such as using phones, adjusting the radio, or talking to passengers, which makes drivers less likely to notice bicyclists

If you were in a bicycle crash in Modesto, hiring a lawyer is crucial for protecting your rights, navigating the complexities of the state’s personal injury laws, and securing the utmost compensation for your injuries. Our attorneys have the experience to negotiate with insurance companies and establish a compelling case while you focus on your recovery.

Injuries and Compensation in Bicycle Accident Claims

After a bicycle collision, the specific amount of recoverable compensation varies significantly based on the severity of the injuries, overall damages, and liability. However, serious injuries, such as fractures, brain trauma, spinal cord injuries, and damage to the internal organs, are common.

A Modesto attorney could help you seek several forms of compensation for bicycle wreck injuries, such as:

  • Economic damages, which include tangible financial losses, such as past and future medical bills, lost income, reduced earning capacity, and property damage
  • Non-economic damages, which include intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and a diminished quality of life
  • Punitive damages, which are awarded in rare cases of extreme or malicious negligence to punish the at-fault party
  • Wrongful death damages, such as when close relatives seek compensation for funeral expenses and loss of companionship if the accident is fatal

After a bicycle wreck, try to collect contact information from the involved parties and any witnesses. Be sure to file a police report, as this could serve as vital evidence for your case. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your bike, your injuries, and the at-fault vehicle.

You should also see a doctor immediately, even for seemingly minor injuries, and keep all related medical records. Then, consult with an attorney who could assess the situation and start the legal process as soon as possible. Under state law, you generally have two years from the date of the collision to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Speak With a Modesto Bicycle Crash Attorney Today

It is best to retain a knowledgeable Modesto bicycle accident lawyer as early in the process as possible. Insurance companies want to minimize payouts and have experienced adjusters who will look for any way to reduce or deny your claim.

You need a lawyer who knows how to effectively challenge their tactics and protect your rights. Contact us today to request your free case consultation.