There is much to be said about the freedom that comes from traveling on a bicycle. Not only does it save money on gas, but it also contributes to efforts to preserve the environment. Let's face it, getting on a bicycle is also great exercise and allows one to enjoy the many sights around San Bernardino.
The biggest problem with riding a bicycle is the hazards riders can face. Unfortunately, thousands of people every year across the United States lose their lives or suffer an injury in an accident involving a bicycle and a motor vehicle. San Bernardino County has an estimated 300,000 child victims annually, according to San Bernardino County Fire Protection District. This number does not account for adults who are injured in bicycle accidents.
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATIONWhy Hire a San Bernardino Personal Injury Lawyer After a Bike Accident?
Before bicyclists can demonstrate they have the basis for a claim against a driver who struck them on San Bernardino roadways, they will have to show the driver was at fault. This is not as simple as it may seem initially.
Victims should remember the responsible party will take steps to minimize their fault, including blaming the bicyclist. Victims who hire a skilled San Bernardino bicycle accident lawyer can work with their attorney to gather evidence to show the driver of the car was at fault. In addition, their attorney will focus on ensuring the victim understands all of their rights under California laws. A San Bernardino accident injury lawyer can also help a victim understand their legal options.
Potential Damages Typically Awarded in Bicycle Accident Claims
No two accidents are the same. For example, a bicyclist who suffers an injury after being struck in an intersection will not have the same financial losses as a person who is knocked off their bicycle because someone did not pay attention and pushed open their car door and struck them. However, every San Bernardino accident victim does have the right to seek compensation based on their situation. Some types of compensation a bicycle operator can seek include:
- Losses associated with medical care: Even those with good medical coverage may still face out-of-pocket costs after a bicycle accident. These costs can be included in a claim against the responsible party.
- Wage and benefits losses: If a bicycle accident victim needs time off work to recover from their injuries, the responsible party should absorb the loss of benefits and wages.
- Property damage: When a victim is involved in a collision while on a bicycle, their bike, helmet, and other equipment may be damaged. The party who caused the collision should be held financially responsible for repair or replacement.
Automobile operators on San Bernardino roadways are required by California DMV to maintain auto insurance coverage in the event they are at fault for an accident. Many opt for only the minimum amount required, which is $5,000 for property damage and $15,000 for one person’s injuries. Depending on the accident’s severity, this may be insufficient to compensate a victim for their losses.
Common San Bernardino Bicycle Accident Injuries
Across the United States, there are thousands of bicycle accidents annually. Victims can suffer a wide range of injuries and in some cases, may lose their life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are 130,000 annual injuries to bicyclists. Some of the most common injuries include:
Internal Injuries
Because these injuries are “hidden” from view, it is easy to forget about internal injuries. However, when you consider the average vehicle weighs around 4,000 pounds while the average bicycle is only around 25 pounds, it should come as no surprise there is a danger of victims suffering an internal injury.
Road Rash Injuries
When someone is thrown from their bike, they will likely land on pavement and slide. The abrasions they suffer are commonly called road rash. While this may sound minor, it is not uncommon for road rash injuries to ultimately be very serious in addition to being painful.
Broken Bones
Victims of a San Bernardino bicycle accident could suffer a broken pelvis, arm or leg fractures, rib fractures, knee injuries, and other breaks. Victims could require weeks or even months to recover from these breaks.
Head and Neck Injuries
Even when a bicycle operator is wearing a helmet, there is a chance they could suffer head and neck injuries which can result in life-long issues. Head injuries could include traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussions, or fractured skulls.
Bicycle accident victims could suffer any number of catastrophic injuries that can upend their entire life. Seeking the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney is helpful to make sure the victim understands their right to file a claim for all of their potential losses.
Holding Drivers Accountable for Bicycle Accidents
Every driver who causes an accident should be held accountable. The team at Kash Legal has a proven history of getting results for their clients. While many accident victims are concerned about seeking legal advice because of the cost involved, there are some things every accident victim should know about Kash Legal:
- We offer a free, no-obligation case evaluation
- We collect nothing for our services if we cannot obtain a settlement
- We work on behalf of a bicycle accident victim
A review of our client settlements can help show how successful we have been in seeking compensation for our clients. We know that our past results do not always indicate our future success, but victims can see how we advocate for our clients.
Contact a San Bernardino Bicycle Accident Lawyer At Kash Legal Today
Accident victims have rights. They need time to recover from their injuries. At Kash Legal, we serve victims all over California and we are committed to serving as their advocate during difficult times. We know that insurance companies have a team of legal professionals working on their behalf. Our goal is simple: To make sure that our clients have an equally strong professional working on their behalf and advocating for them.
Whether you have suffered an injury due to a San Bernardino bicycle accident or someone you love has been injured, we never recommend self-representation. Instead of dealing with insurance claims, contact us at (888) 527-4128 or use our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.
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