Allentown Bicycle Accident Attorney Lawyer
Navigating the aftermath of a bicycle accident in Lehigh Valley can be overwhelming. That’s where an experienced bicycle accident attorney comes into play. The personal injury lawyers at PhillyLaw dedicate themselves to helping victims of bicycle accident cases understand their rights and the legal avenues available to them. Whether negotiating with insurance companies for fair compensation or taking legal action and representing you in court, the skilled Allentown bicycle accident attorneys at PhillyLaw will stand by your side every step of the way, ensuring your voice is heard and your needs are met. Contact us for a free consultation to learn more about whether you have a personal injury case from your Lehigh Valley bike accident.
Actions to Take After a Bike Accident in Allentown
In the immediate aftermath of a bike crash in Allentown, taking the right steps can significantly impact the outcome of any potential personal injury case.
- Ensure your safety; move out of the roadway to a safe location if possible.
- Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, as some symptoms may not appear immediately.
- Document the scene by taking photos of your injuries, the bicycle, the vehicle involved, and any nearby road signs or signals.
- Gather contact information from any witnesses, as their statements could support your case later.
- Report the accident to the police to have an official record and create a police report.
- Notify your insurance company about the accident, but refrain from discussing fault or details until speaking with an Allentown bicycle accident attorney.
- Consult with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer from PhillyLaw to understand your legal rights and options moving forward. Acting promptly and judiciously can help ensure you’re positioned for the best possible outcome regarding financial compensation and recovery.
Compensation Available to Bike Accident Victims
Victims of bicycle accidents in Allentown may be entitled to a variety of compensations to cover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical bills and medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, while non-economic damages can cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In certain cases, if the negligence of the other party was particularly egregious, victims might also be eligible for punitive damages, designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar misconduct. An Allentown bicycle accident attorney at PhillyLaw will work diligently to ensure our clients recover compensation tailored to your unique circumstances and needs.
Common Injuries from Bike Accidents
Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor scrapes and bruises to severe injuries. Some common injuries associated with bike accidents include road rash, a painful abrasion caused by sliding across the pavement; broken bones, often occurring in the arms, legs or ribs from the impact; head injuries, including concussions and more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which necessitate the use of helmets for protection. Additionally, spinal cord injuries are also a dire possibility, potentially resulting in paralysis or other long-term disabilities. A PhillyLaw personal injury lawyer will help you understand the nature and extent of these injuries to help you seek compensation.
Wrongful Death Cases from Bike Accidents
Tragically, some bicycle accidents in Lehigh Valley result in fatalities, leading to wrongful death cases. These are situations where the accident is caused by the negligent or reckless actions of another party, such as a motor vehicle driver. In such cases, the family of the deceased cyclist may pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for their loss. This compensation can cover funeral and burial expenses, loss of income and support, loss of companionship, and the pain and suffering experienced by the deceased prior to death. An experienced Allentown bicycle accident lawyer at PhillyLaw is adept at handling these sensitive cases, providing compassionate support to grieving families while fiercely advocating for their rights and the justice their loved one deserves.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can occur due to a variety of factors, often involving both cyclist and motor vehicle driver errors. Some common causes include:
Distracted Driving
This is one of the leading causes of all motor vehicle accidents, including bicycle accidents. When drivers are not fully attentive to the road, they may fail to see bicyclists in time to avoid a collision.
Dooring
This happens when a parked car’s door is suddenly opened into the path of an oncoming cyclist, leaving them little time to react and avoid crashing into the door.
Failure to Yield
Many bike crashes occur at intersections where either the driver or the bicyclist fails to yield the right of way when required.
Poor Road Conditions
Potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces can be particularly hazardous for cyclists, potentially leading to loss of control and a subsequent bike accident.
Speeding
Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of any collision with a bicyclist.
Riding Against Traffic
Bicyclists riding against the flow of traffic increase their risk of bicycle accidents because drivers do not expect their presence in the wrong direction.
Understanding these common causes can help both cyclists and drivers take precautionary measures to avoid accidents, making roads safer for everyone.
Preventative Measures to Avoid a Bike Crash
Ensuring safety while biking in Pennsylvania requires adherence to both legal requirements and recommended best practices. Here are essential safety tips for cyclists:
Wear a Helmet
Pennsylvania law requires that cyclists under the age of 12 must wear a helmet. However, bicycle riders of all ages should wear helmets for protection against head injuries.
Use Lights and Reflectors
Pennsylvania law requires a front white light and rear red reflector or light on bicycles for riding between sunset and sunrise. This visibility is crucial for safety during low-light conditions.
Follow Traffic Laws
Cyclists on the road have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and are subject to the same rules and regulations. This includes obeying traffic signals, signs, and lane markings.
Stay Alert
Always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid using headphones or mobile devices that can distract you from traffic, pedestrians, and potential hazards.
Signal Turns and Lane Changes
Use hand signals to indicate your intentions to motor vehicles and other bicycles. This communication helps prevent accidents.
Ride in the Right Direction
Ride in the same direction with traffic, not against it. Bicycling against traffic is dangerous and increases the risk of collisions.
Use Bike Lanes When Available
If bike paths are available and clear of obstructions, use them. They are safer than riding in general traffic lanes.
Wear Visible Clothing
Wear bright and reflective clothing, especially when riding in the early morning, late evening, or on cloudy days, to enhance your visibility to drivers.
By following these safety tips, cyclists can significantly reduce their risk of a car accident resulting in injuries on Pennsylvania’s roads, contributing to a safer biking environment for everyone.
Our Commitment to Allentown Bicycle Accident Victims
At PhillyLaw, we hold a deep commitment to providing unwavering support and legal assistance to injured bike riders throughout the Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania. Understanding the unique challenges faced by bicyclists on the road, our experienced team of personal injury attorneys is dedicated to fighting for the rights and full value compensation of those who have been unfairly injured in bike accidents. Our approach combines thorough investigation, expertise in Pennsylvania’s traffic and personal injury laws, and a compassionate understanding of the physical and emotional toll a bike accident can take on an individual and their family. Whether negotiating with insurance companies for fair compensation or representing our clients in court in a legal case, PhillyLaw stands as a staunch advocate for the bicycling community, aiming to achieve not just justice, but also to promote a safer environment for all road users. Contact us today for a free consultation.