Bicyclist Hit by Car
As the recent National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA) Share the Road campaign stated, bicyclists deserve a portion of the roadway as they are considered to be a mode of transportation. Many motorists do not realize that they must share the road with bicyclists, or they may become distracted behind the wheel and fail to see a bicyclist on the road.
An April 2014 report from the NHTSA states that in 2012 there were 726 pedalcyclist deaths, accounting for 2% of the overall traffic fatalities. This figure is 6% higher than the 682 pedalcyclists killed in 2011.
With the number of bike-car accidents increasing, it is imperative for bicyclists and motorists to be aware of the rules of the roadway, as well as pay proper attention to their surroundings. As the NHTSA states, “Bicycles on the roadway are, by law, vehicles with the same rights, and responsibilities as motorized vehicles.” We want to remind all motorists that they must respect bicycles on the road and share the road with them as it is required by law.
Hit by Car on Bike
Bicyclists who follow the laws of the road should enjoy the ability to arrive at their destination safely. If a motorist hits a bicyclist, they can cause serious injuries.
A bike-car accident can often result in tragic results as the bicyclists do not have a vehicle to protect them from the impact of the vehicle. This type of collision is essentially a large machine versus an unprotected individual. Our law office has helped bike accident victims after such accidents and through this experience, we believe the below 2 steps are essential for the injury claim process that follows a bike-car accident.
1. Seek Medical Attention
It is imperative to seek medical attention following a bike-car accident if you are injured. Whether the resulting injuries are serious or not, if there is any discomfort after a bike-car accident it is wise to see your primary care physician or to visit an emergency room. Oftentimes injuries worsen after the initial impact, so bike-car accident victims should always seek the advice of a medical professional immediately following the incident, especially since sometimes the pain doesn’t start until the following day when it comes to muscle injuries.
2. Contact a Bike-Car Accident Attorney
When involved in a bike-car accident, injured individuals should follow similar steps to what they would do after a car accident. One of the most important steps is to contact a personal injury attorney. After a bike-car accident, it is likely that the victim will begin to be contacted by the insurance company and will be asked questions about the accident. In the interest of the personal injury claim, it is best for bike accident victims to have communication with the insurance company go through their attorney.
Injured in a Bike-Car Accident
If you or a loved one was riding a bicycle when hit by a vehicle and sustained injuries from the accident, contact a personal injury attorney. Contrada & Associates has helped bike-car accident victims to receive compensation after suffering injuries due to the fault of another motorist and we can help you to obtain a favorable settlement.
To contact an attorney about your bike-car accident, call 419.841.4400. By calling the Contrada & Associates office, you will have the opportunity to speak directly with attorney Charlie Contrada about the accident you were in, the injuries that were sustained, and you will also receive guidance in regards to the next steps that you should take.