Longmont Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Anyone who cycles long enough will have an accident or two. Most of these crashes are minor, resulting in scrapes, bumps, and maybe a little embarrassment. However, the injuries can become much more severe when a motor vehicle is involved.
A negligent or distracted driver, or a poorly maintained road, can cause severe injuries instantly. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable in a wreck. Unlike motorists, a cage or even mandated protective gear does not protect them. Of course, cyclists can wear helmets to protect themselves from brain and spine injuries, but they are not required to.
Even minor wrecks can lead to broken wrists or shoulders as cyclists try to protect themselves. More severe wrecks can lead to head trauma, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and more. If you have been hurt, you need a Longmont bicycle accident lawyer. They could help you understand your rights and explore remedies against those who hurt you. Call Amy G. Injury Firm today to speak with a seasoned personal injury attorney.
Understanding Cyclists’ Rights
State laws protect cyclists, but drivers often fail to follow them, leading to serious accidents. Some key bicycle laws in Colorado include the following:
- When passing a cyclist, motorists must give at least three feet of space
- Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers when riding on the road
- If a designated bike lane is available, cyclists should use it, but they are not required to if it is unsafe
- Helmets are not required for adult cyclists in Colorado
- Cyclists must obey traffic signals and stop signs, but drivers must also yield to cyclists when required
Even though these laws exist, bicycle accidents still happen due to careless or reckless drivers. When a motorist violates these laws and causes injuries, a Longmont bike accident attorney could help hold them accountable.
Cyclists can also take steps to help themselves. While helmets are not required by law, wearing one can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries.
Common Causes of Bike Accidents
Like other collisions, bike crashes are often caused by negligence. Cyclists can be negligent, but they are more likely to be injured when motorists do not behave reasonably.
The most common causes of bike accidents include the following:
- Distracted driving
- Failure to yield
- Dooring
- Poor road conditions
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
Distracted driving is a huge problem and contributes to several bike crashes. Drivers using their phones, adjusting the radio, or not paying attention to the road pose a serious risk to cyclists. Distraction also leads to dooring accidents—when drivers or passengers open car doors without checking for oncoming bicycles, leading to wrecks.
Many accidents occur at intersections when drivers fail to give cyclists the right of way. One problem is that many drivers do not know the laws about yielding to cyclists. Speeding and reckless driving increase the risk of these crashes and can be the sole cause of other accidents.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is always dangerous. Impaired drivers put everyone at risk, especially vulnerable road users like cyclists. Impaired cyclists also increase their risk in an accident.
Sometimes a third party is responsible for a bike crash. Poor road conditions—potholes, debris, and other hazards—make cycling dangerous, especially when municipalities fail to maintain safe streets.
The financial, physical, and emotional toll of a bicycle wreck can be overwhelming, making it crucial to seek fair compensation. A Longmont lawyer could help identify liable parties in bicycle collisions.
Talk to a Longmont Bicycle Accident Attorney
Bicycle accident claims can be catastrophic—and expensive. Getting the money you deserve may require immediate action. Evidence can disappear, and Colorado has strict deadlines for filing a claim.
Anyone injured in a cycling accident should not wait—contact a Longmont bicycle accident lawyer today for a free consultation to start fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.
