Cities across the country are growing increasingly more dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists alike as car-centric infrastructure is on the rise. Unfortunately, this means that those on bikes are more likely to be injured by negligent drivers while traversing their city. If you have suffered injuries stemming from a bicycle accident in California, understanding your legal options is critical. The following blog explores what you should know about these complicated matters, including the importance of working with an experienced Contra Costa County injury lawyer to discuss your legal options and how to proceed.
How Does a Bicycle Accident Happen?
Unfortunately, as mentioned, many cities are creating infrastructure to support vehicles while reducing routes and options for both cyclists and pedestrians alike. As such, many drivers do not take the necessary precautions when driving to look for bike riders, which can lead to a serious accident. For example, drivers may not check blind spots or look for riders before making turns. Additionally, dooring accidents can occur if drivers open their vehicle doors without checking for approaching cyclists, ultimately knocking them off their bikes.
You’ll also find that many drivers are increasingly distracted behind the wheel. This means any driver who is texting, eating, applying makeup, setting a GPS, or even conversing with passengers is not paying attention to the road, and as such, can collide with a cyclist.
Unfortunately, an accident between a car and bicycle can be incredibly serious, as unlike collisions between two vehicles, there is no car to absorb some of the impact in a collision. As such, you can sustain two serious blows – the first when the car strikes your body, and then again if you are thrown off your bike onto the ground. As such, you may sustain injuries like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, neck and spinal cord damage, and road rash.
What Steps Should I Take if I’m Hurt?
If you have suffered injuries as a result of the negligence of a driver, it’s critical to understand how to proceed. Generally, the most important thing you can do immediately after a collision is call the police to request assistance.
Even if you feel okay, allowing the emergency medical technicians to assess you for injuries is paramount, as some injuries may not immediately appear. As such, ensuring you immediately establish medical care after a collision is critical to your case, as the defendant will be unable to shift blame onto you for failing to seek care.
If you are physically able to, you should also begin gathering evidence at the scene of the collision. This includes photos and videos of the damage to your bicycle, the vehicle that struck you, and any visible injuries you have suffered as a result. You should also speak with any witnesses who saw the accident occur and obtain their contact information. They may be able to provide statements that can help the outcome of your claim.
When you are struck by a negligent driver while on your bicycle, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney with O’Connor Law APC. Our firm understands how difficult these matters can be to navigate, especially when you are still healing from the injuries you’ve suffered, which is why we are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome for your circumstances. When you need help, do not hesitate to contact us today.
