Bicycling is an excellent method of exercise and an environmentally-friendly form of transportation. However, whether you’re a serious or casual cyclist, you’re at risk for accidents any time you hop on your bike. Many modern roads simply aren’t constructed with cyclists in mind, drivers do not always pay attention to what they are doing and tragedies can occur as a result.
When accidents happen, it is important to consult with an experienced DC bicycle accident lawyer as soon as you possibly can. An accident victim is only granted so much time to file a legal claim and evidence can become compromised over time. The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. is here to help you evaluate your legal options so that you can make informed decisions about your situation in the wake of a bicycle accident.
How common are cyclist accidents?
Over 700 bicyclists were killed as a result of motor vehicle crashes in 2014 alone. In that same year, cyclists sustained over 50,000 injuries as a result of motor vehicle crashes. It is only partially because cycling crashes tend to be serious in nature that it is important for accident victims to speak with a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as they can after a collision has occurred. Pursuing legal action against those who are responsible can help to ensure that victims receive the care they require if they have been injured.
If there are so many cyclist accidents, why don’t I hear more about them?
The unfortunate truth is that as little as 10 percent of all cyclist accidents actually get reported to police. The majority of cyclists pick themselves up and carry on. Please do not simply “keep calm and carry on” if you have been involved in an accident. You may have injuries that will only manifest days or weeks later. Please schedule a consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer before deciding that you do not want to report your accident to authorities.
Can I fix my bike after I’ve been hit by a car?
As tempting as it might be to take your bike straight to the shop to have it repaired after an accident, this is an ill-advised move. Preserving evidence is paramount after your accident. This evidence can be used later if you file a personal injury lawsuit. It can also help police detail more accurately what happened. A bicycle accident lawyer can help you to preserve evidence before your bike is repaired.
Does it matter if I report my injuries to the police?
Yes. Just as you should always accept at-the-scene medical treatment, you should report all of your injuries, no matter how small. These small injuries could develop into more serious issues as time goes on. In addition, it’s crucial to seek follow-up medical treatment after your accident.
How seriously should I take a cyclist accident case?
If you’ve been hit by a car while cycling, you should take your case just as seriously as you would any significant car accident. If a driver hits you and does not stop afterward, they may be charged with a felony hit and run, just as they could be in any similar situation involving another vehicle.
