Riding a bicycle is a great way to get around, but what may have started as a fun day on the road can take a drastic turn when the rider is involved in an accident. Because bicyclists lack protection, such as that provided by a car, injuries can be severe and life changing. When bicycle accidents are caused by a negligent driver, there may be grounds for a bicycle injury claim. Those who have suffered from bicycle accident injuries in Concord, CA, Berkeley, CA or the East Bay are encouraged to contact Sumner Law to learn more about their legal rights.
Bicycle Accident Injuries
Although those who are injured in a bicycle accident may only sustain minor injuries, like scrapes or bruises, others may not be so lucky. Unlike a car, bicycles leave a person’s body exposed, which makes bicyclists more vulnerable to serious injury when involved in an accident. Some common injuries, both minor and serious, that may occur in a bicycle accident include:
- Bruises
- Scrapes and cuts
- Fractured elbow
- Broken leg
- Fractured clavicle
- Broken arm or hand
- Internal injuries
- Dislocated joints
- Brain injury
- Fractured jaw
- Dental damage such as tooth dislocation
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Nerve damage
Avoiding Bicycle Accidents and Injuries
Because bicyclists and drivers share the road, it is important for them to use caution at all times. Drivers of automobiles should take extra care when passing bicyclists. Bicyclists should bike defensively and follow such safety precautions as:
- Always wear a bicycle helmet
- Wear bright-colored clothing and reflective clothing at night
- Stay as visible as possible with reflectors and bike lights, especially at night
- Use hand signals when turning
- Stay aware of your surroundings
- Obey the same road rules as other motorists
- Ride in the same direction as other traffic
- Stay to the right side of the road and use bike lanes whenever available
- Do not ride through red lights or stop signs
- Do not bike while intoxicated
A Bicycle Attorney Can Help Seek Damages
Even if a serious injury heals, it can drastically impact a person’s quality of life. Some bicyclists may no longer be able to ride, whether due to a physical injury or the trauma of a bicycle accident. Bicycle accident injuries may cause permanent disability and impact a person’s ability to work.
Bicyclists who have been injured in an accident caused by another person may be able to recoup compensation for damages and are encouraged to contact a bicycle accident attorney to learn more about their legal rights. A bicycle accident attorney can help guide victims through the process of filing a bicycle injury claim to seek compensation for damages like loss of current and future wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Contact Sumner Law
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact bicycle accident attorney Scott Sumner to discuss the details of your case.