Bicycles are a popular way to get around Lafayette. Some cyclists rely on bicycles as a main source of transportation, and many others cycle recreationally. Even though Lafayette drivers are accustomed to sharing the roads with bicyclists, cycling is still extremely dangerous.
With limited protection against motor vehicles, bicyclists can suffer severe or even fatal injuries when accidents happen. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident because someone was negligent, Dudley DeBosier is ready to fight for your rights and help secure the compensation you need to cover your losses.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Lafayette
Bicycle accidents in Lafayette happen most often because of driver negligence and hazardous road conditions. It’s our hope that by sharing the common causes of bicycle accidents, we’ll prevent others from experiencing harm. Some of the most common causes we frequently see include:
- Distracted Driving: Motorists using cell phones or engaging in other distractions may fail to notice cyclists.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers who ignore stop signs or fail to yield at intersections put cyclists at risk.
- Dooring Accidents: Parked drivers opening their doors into a cyclist’s path can cause serious injuries.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. Cyclists are in deadly situations when dealing with this kind of erratic driving behavior.
- Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers have reduced awareness and poor decision-making abilities.
- Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, and inadequate bike lanes can contribute to accidents.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents often lead to severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Road rash and severe lacerations
- Internal organ damage
- Wrongful death
Compensation Available for Bicycle Accident Victims
Bicycle accidents often result in life-altering and sometimes deadly consequences. That’s because there’s almost no protection for cyclists against heavy vehicles and pavement. Depending on the circumstances of the accident and the extent of their injuries, compensation can cover a range of losses, from medical expenses to pain and suffering.
Understanding what types of damages victims may be eligible for is crucial to ensuring that they receive the support and resources needed. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the following to help ease your financial burden so you can focus on healing:
- Medical expenses (current and future care)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
Considering the vulnerable position cyclists are in after an accident, taking the right steps to protect their legal rights and improve their chances of receiving fair compensation may be challenging. Still, we urge anyone involved in a bicycle accident to follow these critical steps if possible:
- Seek medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a healthcare professional. Your health should be a priority, and the documentation will greatly help your case.
- Report the accident. Call the police and ensure an accident report is filed. We review these reports when building a case for your compensation.
- Collect evidence. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. We understand this could be challenging if your injuries prevent it. Do your best, but your safety should always come first.
- Gather witness information. Obtain contact details from any witnesses who saw the accident. These firsthand accounts are some of the most effective pieces of evidence in bicycle accident cases.
- Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters. Do not provide statements or accept a settlement without legal advice. Insurance adjusters will swoop in and try to manipulate you into a low-ball settlement. Don’t let that happen.
- Contact a Lafayette bicycle accident attorney. Dudley DeBosier can guide you through the claims process and protect your right to compensation.
How Our Lafayette Bicycle Accident Lawyers Can Help
At Dudley DeBosier, we are committed to helping bicycle accident victims recover the compensation they need to heal and move forward. Our legal team will:
- Investigate the accident and gather crucial evidence
- Determine liability and build a strong case
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- Negotiate for a fair settlement
- Take your case to court if the insurance company doesn’t offer a fair settlement
Contact Dudley DeBosier Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Lafayette, don’t delay getting an experienced Lafayette bicycle accident lawyer on your side. Bicycle accident claims can be complicated and involve multiple parties.
Your case deserves solid legal representation. Contact Dudley DeBosier today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
