Thornton Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Bicycle collisions with vehicles often result in significant injuries, leaving cyclists with a long road to recovery and mounting medical bills. If you were in a catastrophic bicycle accident, you might feel as though your life has been turned upside down. In addition to physical and financial strain, your injuries may also be causing you to miss work, which only adds to your economic stress.
If a negligent driver caused you to sustain injuries, reach out to a Thornton bicycle accident lawyer today. A seasoned injury attorney could go over the details of your case and work with you to obtain fair compensation for your injuries.
Crash Victims Should Not Deal Directly with Insurance Companies
It is never a wise idea to speak directly with insurance companies or adjusters after an accident. They may sound friendly and concerned, but these individuals often do not have the accident victim’s best interest in mind.
The insurance representative’s job is to minimize the payout. The representative is seeking to find the information they can use to reduce the amount paid to satisfy the insurance claim. An experienced bike collision attorney in Thornton could handle all the communication with the insurance company on an injured party’s behalf.
Examples of Driver Negligence
From lack of awareness of the laws to improperly judging the speed and distance of a cyclist, driver negligence can contribute to bicycle collisions in several ways. Common examples of driver error may include:
- Distracted driving
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Unsafe lane changes
- Speed or reckless driving
- Opening doors in the path of cyclists
- Failing to check blind spots
- Failing to yield
- Tailgating
Proving a driver’s negligence is a necessary element of an injury claim after a cycling crash. An attorney in the area could go over the details of the bike accident and help prepare the legal action to prove liability and file an injury claim.
State Laws Regarding Cyclists
Colorado Revised Statute §42-4-1412 states that bicyclists have every right and responsibility to use each roadway in the state that motor vehicle drivers have. The ordinance also explains that:
- Vehicles must give the bicyclist at least three feet distance when passing
- Unless the cyclist can keep up with traffic, they must stay in the right lane unless making a left turn
- Bicyclists may not ride on sidewalks unless otherwise specified
- Bikes must have a light in the front and reflectors in the back
- Bicycle riders must keep a minimum of one hand on the handlebars at all times
While many bicycle and vehicle accidents occur because of negligent drivers, it is also imperative that cyclists follow state laws to ensure safety. A knowledgeable lawyer understands the state regulations and could answer any questions an injured cyclist may have.
Consult with an Experienced Thornton Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
Bicycle riding is an environmentally friendly way to travel and a great way to get in your daily exercise. Unfortunately, when vehicles and cyclists do not follow the proper safety precautions, biking can also be dangerous.
Every cyclist must do their part to follow regulations as the law requires. However, in the cases that a negligent driver causes your injuries, you could be eligible for financial compensation. If you sustained injuries because of a careless or reckless motorist, call a Thornton bicycle accident lawyer right away to get started on your claim.
