Richmond Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Depending on where you live, cycling can be a fun leisure activity or an economical method of commuting to work. Riding a bicycle is not without its risks, however. Cyclists must share the road with motor vehicles that are far larger, far heavier, and can go much faster. A simple mistake or lack of care on the part of either the rider or the motorist can end badly for the person on the bike. In Virginia, several hundred bicycle accidents occur every year, ending in injury almost every time. Although bicycle accidents account for only .5% of all traffic crashes in Virginia, they make up 1.1% of all traffic fatalities and 1.9% of all serious injuries in a traffic accident.
Latham & Martin offers legal support for bicycle accident victims and their families, providing a high level of personal service and attention from a team of caring attorneys who have been pracgicing personal injury law in Virginia for over a decade with a strong record of success. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bike crash in Henrico, Hanover, or Chesterfield County, including Hopewell, Petersburg, Colonial Heights and surrounding areas, contact our experienced Richmond bicycle accident lawyers for a no-cost consultation to find out how we can help you get compensation for the harm that has been inflicted on you by a negligent driver.
Negligent Driving Causes Bicycle Accidents
Negligence on the part of motor vehicle drivers often leads to tragic collisions with cyclists. The following types of negligent driving behaviors are some of the most common reasons behind bicycle accidents:
- Distracted Driving: Engaging in activities like texting or talking on the phone.
- Driving Under the Influence: Operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Reckless or Aggressive Driving: Excessive speeding, tailgating, or other aggressive actions.
- Failing to Yield: Not yielding the right-of-way at intersections or crosswalks.
Latham & Martin’s personal injury attorneys in Richmond are proficient in identifying these behaviors and holding the responsible drivers accountable.
Bicycle Accidents Cause Some of the Most Serious and Catastrophic Injuries
Victims of bicycle accidents may suffer a wide range of injuries, including some of the most severe injuries incurred in a traffic collision. The most common and serious ones include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Fractures and Broken Bone
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Cuts and Lacerations
These injuries may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, often resulting in significant financial burdens.
Drivers Can Cause Bicycle Accidents Even Without Colliding With the Bike
An alarming scenario occurs when a driver’s actions cause a bicycle accident without a direct collision. For example, a driver might suddenly swerve or stop, forcing the cyclist to take evasive action, leading to a crash. Aggressive drivers might also squeeze cyclists out of their lane, causing them to crash or leave the road. Even without physical contact, the driver may be held liable for the cyclist’s injuries. Understanding and proving these nuanced cases requires legal expertise, something that the team at Latham & Martin is well-equipped to provide.
Virginia Bicycle Laws: Duties of Drivers and Cyclists
In Virginia, both drivers and cyclists have specific duties to ensure safety on the road:
- Drivers’ Duties:
- Yielding to cyclists as they would to other vehicles.
- Maintaining a safe distance, typically three feet, when passing a cyclist.
- Not driving or parking in designated bike lanes.
- Cyclists’ Duties:
- Complying with traffic signs, signals, and road markings.
- Using lights and reflectors during nighttime or low-visibility conditions.
- Wearing a helmet, although not mandated by law for riders over 14.
Adherence to these laws helps in fostering a safe environment for both cyclists and motorists. However, when breaches occur, Latham & Martin’s experienced personal injury lawyers are here to help victims navigate the complex legal landscape.
Contact Latham & Martin Today
If you or a loved one has been affected by a bicycle accident due to a negligent driver, defective bicycle, or negligently maintained road, reach out to Latham & Martin in Richmond. Our skilled legal team is ready to assist you in pursuing rightful compensation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
