Our Philadelphia Bicycle Accident Lawyers Fight For The Compensation You Deserve
In 2022 alone, Pennsylvania witnessed a staggering 810 crashes involving bicycles, underscoring a critical safety concern on our roads. Each statistic represents not just an incident but individuals—cyclists who set out with the intention of enjoying their ride, commuting, or perhaps engaging in a healthy activity, only to find themselves facing physical injuries, emotional trauma, and often, a daunting recovery process. Behind every number is a story of disruption, pain, and the arduous journey towards healing. Amid these challenges, our Philadelphia bicycle accident lawyers stand ready to advocate for victims’ rights, aiming to secure the compensation needed to facilitate their recovery and restore normalcy to their lives.
Injured in a Bicycle Accident? PhillyLaw Fights For You
PhillyLaw has your back. Our bicycle accident lawyers in Philadelphia possess the unique blend of legal expertise, unwavering dedication, and compassion your case deserves. We understand the impact of a bicycle accident on an individual’s life and are committed to helping victims receive the justice they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
The Importance of Seeking Legal Help After a Bicycle Accident
Bike crashes usually happen because of motor vehicle drivers’ mistakes, like not yielding the right-of-way, opening doors without looking for cyclists, or crossing into bike lanes. These careless actions can have severe outcomes for cyclists, who are at higher risk on the road. While it’s typically clear who’s at fault when a car hits a cyclist, figuring out liability can sometimes get complicated.
For instance, if a cyclist is forced to make a sudden maneuver to avoid a door opening from a parked vehicle and, as a result, collides with another object or vehicle, determining fault requires careful analysis.
In states that adhere to comparative negligence, responsibility for an accident is never automatically assigned to only one party.
If a cyclist was riding without proper lights at night and an accident occurred, both the motorist and the cyclist could be deemed partially responsible. This shared liability can influence the compensation each party is entitled to recover.
Furthermore, obstacles or poorly maintained road conditions that cause a cyclist to crash might involve liability claims against local government entities responsible for road maintenance.
In these cases, the legal complexities increase significantly. Consulting with a qualified Philadelphia bicycle accident lawyer is crucial for navigating these nuances. A lawyer can help establish the intricacies of fault, deal with multiple parties, and protect your rights to secure fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
How Our Philadelphia Bicycle Accident Attorneys Can Help
When you choose our team at PhillyLaw, you’re not just getting a lawyer; you’re getting over 75 years of combined experience in handling bicycle accident cases in Philadelphia. Our dedicated legal team understands the complexities of bicycle accident cases and is equipped to provide comprehensive support throughout the legal process. Here’s how we can help:
Expert Legal Advice
With over seven decades of experience, our bike accident lawyers have a deep understanding of Pennsylvania’s bicycle laws. We offer expert legal advice to help you understand your rights and the scope of compensation you may be entitled to.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
We conduct thorough investigations to gather all necessary evidence. This includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and other documentation supporting your personal injury claim.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Our seasoned attorneys handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf. With our experience, we know the tactics insurance companies might use to undervalue claims, and we fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Legal Representation in Court
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, our skilled litigators are prepared to represent you in court. We are committed to presenting a strong case on your behalf to secure the best possible outcome.
Comprehensive Support
Beyond the legal aspects, we understand the emotional and physical challenges you might be facing. Our team is here to offer support and guidance, ensuring you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal details.
At PhillyLaw, we are passionate about advocating for the rights of bicycle accident victims. With over 70 years of experience, our Philadelphia bicycle accident lawyers have the expertise, dedication, and compassion to help you through this challenging time. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in your recovery and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Can I get Compensation If I’m Hurt in a Bike Crash?
YES, if you are injured in a bike crash, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. The compensation you may be eligible for can cover various aspects of your recovery and losses.
Medical Expenses
This includes all medical treatments you’ve received due to your injuries from the accident, such as hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care related to your accident injuries.
Lost Wages
If your injuries have caused you to miss work, you can seek compensation for your lost wages. Furthermore, if your injuries impact your ability to work in the future, you may also be entitled to compensation for lost earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
This covers the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured as a result of the accident. Pain and suffering can also include anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Bicycle Repair or Replacement
You can receive compensation for repairing or replacing your bicycle and any other personal property damaged in the crash.
Loss of Consortium
If your injuries affect your relationship with your spouse, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium, which refers to the loss of companionship, affection, and other elements of the marital relationship.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the defendant’s conduct was particularly reckless or egregious, you might be awarded punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
It’s important to discuss your case with a knowledgeable bicycle accident attorney who can guide you through the process of claiming compensation and help you understand the full scope of compensation you might be entitled to.
“Can I Still Get Compensation If I Share Partial Fault?”
In Pennsylvania, the concept of shared fault doesn’t necessarily bar you from receiving compensation after a bicycle accident. Even if you are found to be partially responsible for the incident — for instance, if you were not entirely focused on the road due to using a GPS system when the accident occurred — you could still be eligible for compensation. This is because Pennsylvania employs a comparative negligence system, which allows for the possibility of recovering damages proportional to your degree of fault. It’s essential, however, to understand how your level of responsibility can affect the overall compensation you may receive. Our Philadelphia bike accident lawyers can help clarify these nuances and protect your rights.
Determining Negligence in Bicycle Accidents
Determining negligence in a bicycle accident is pivotal to establishing liability and recovering compensation for injuries and losses.
In Pennsylvania, negligence is based on the failure to act with the care that a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances. This encompasses a wide range of behaviors, from violating traffic laws to failing to pay adequate attention to the road.
To effectively establish negligence in your bicycle accident case, four essential elements must be demonstrated:
Duty of Care
The defendant had a legal obligation to act in a manner that ensures the safety of others, including cyclists.
Breach of Duty
The defendant failed to fulfill their duty of care by acting (or failing to act) in a certain way.
Causation
There must be a direct link establishing that the defendant’s breach of duty directly caused the accident and your injuries.
Damages
It must be proven that you suffered actual damages (physical, emotional, or financial) as a result of the accident.
Our Philadelphia bicycle accident attorneys meticulously analyze every aspect of your case to identify all potentially liable parties, including drivers, pedestrians, other cyclists, or even municipal entities responsible for road maintenance. By proving the negligence of one or more parties that contributed to the accident, we work to hold them accountable and secure the compensation you are entitled to.
Bicycle Accident Statute Of Limitations
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to a bicycle crash is two years from the date of the accident. This means that accident victims have a limited timeframe to take legal action against those responsible for their injuries. If you do not file your bicycle accident lawsuit within this period, you will lose your right to seek compensation for your damages. It is critical to be aware of this timeline and consult with a knowledgeable bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed timely and your rights are protected.
What to Do When a Vehicle Hits You and Your Bike
Bicycle car accidents can result in severe injuries, and it’s critical to take the necessary steps after a crash to protect your rights and well-being.
Immediately Ensure Your Safety:
Move to a safe location if you can do so without worsening your injuries. Your safety should be your top priority.
Call 911:
Even if the accident seems minor, calling the police is crucial. They will document the scene and generate a report, which can be essential for your case.
Exchange Information:
Obtain the driver’s contact and insurance information, as well as the contact information of any witnesses. This information is vital for your claim.
Document the Scene:
Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages to your bicycle and personal belongings. Visual evidence strengthens your case.
Seek Medical Attention:
Visit a healthcare professional immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries are not immediately apparent, and documentation of your injuries by a medical professional is critical.
Do Not Admit Fault:
Be cautious about what you say at the accident scene. Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you later.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance:
Notify your insurance company about the accident, but be mindful of the information you share. Do not provide any written or recorded statements without consulting an attorney first.
Consult with an Experienced Philadelphia Bicycle Accident Attorney:
An experienced Philadelphia bicycle accident attorney at PhillyLaw can guide you through the legal process after a bike-car accident, represent your interests, and work to secure the compensation you deserve.
What Are The Common Causes Of Bicycle Injuries in Philadelphia?
Bicycle accidents can result from a variety of factors, leading to injuries for the cyclist. Common causes include:
Driver Negligence: This includes speeding, distracted driving (such as texting while driving), failing to yield at intersections, or not giving cyclists the right-of-way.
Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, debris, and lack of dedicated bicycle lanes can significantly increase the risk of accidents.
Doorings: Occurs when a vehicle’s door is unexpectedly opened in a cyclist’s path, causing a collision.
Defective Bicycle or Parts: Malfunctioning brakes, gears, or other critical components due to manufacturing defects can lead to accidents.
Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, ice, and even strong winds can make biking more hazardous.
Impaired Driving: Accidents caused by drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol remain a significant concern.
Riding Without Proper Gear: Not wearing reflective clothing at night or neglecting to use lights can make cyclists less visible to drivers.
Improper Lane Changes or Turns by Vehicles: Abrupt or unsignaled lane changes or turns by motor vehicle drivers can lead to collisions with cyclists.
Bicycle accidents are serious accidents. Taking the necessary precautions while riding and seeking legal representation if you are involved in a crash is essential.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bike accidents can lead to serious injuries. Some of the most common include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Including concussions and other severe head injuries, often resulting from collisions without a helmet.
Fractures: Broken bones are common for bicycle riders, especially in the hands, arms, legs, and ribs, due to attempts to break a fall.
Road Rash: Severe abrasions caused by sliding across the pavement, which can lead to infections or require skin grafts.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in permanent disability, including paralysis.
Dental and Facial Injuries: Impact with the road, vehicle, or bicycle itself can cause serious damage to the face and teeth.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears in muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding or organ damage from blunt force trauma.
Lacerations and Cuts: Deep cuts can occur from the bike, objects on the road, or the vehicle involved in the accident.
Joint Dislocations: Particularly in the shoulders and hips, often caused by falls or direct impacts.
If you’ve been seriously injured, you deserve to seek compensation for your damages. Working with a Philadelphia bike accident lawyer can help ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. Understanding your rights and options following a bike accident is essential, including pursuing legal action against those responsible. Do not let time run out – consult with our skilled Philadelphia bicycle accident attorneys as soon as possible.
Wrongful Death in Bicycle Accidents
Losing a loved one in a bike accident is a traumatic experience, and the idea of financial recovery during such a time might seem overwhelming. However, families have the right to seek compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit against the person responsible for their loss. This legal process allows the family to recover damages for both their emotional and financial suffering. Our team of Philadelphia bicycle accident and wrongful death attorneys are here to provide the necessary legal support and guidance during this difficult time.
Our Commitment to Philadelphia Bicycle Accident Victims
At Philly Law, we understand the profound impact a bicycle accident can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. You deserve an experienced Philadelphia bicycle accident lawyer to handle your case. Our skilled legal team is dedicated to fighting for the rights of accident victims, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, our goal is to lift the legal burden from your shoulders, allowing you to focus on recovery. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, we encourage you to contact us for a free consultation. Together, we will explore your options and diligently work toward securing the most favorable outcome for your case.