Gautier Bicycle Accident Lawyer

When a person is struck by an automobile while on a bicycle, they have very little protection against the impact of the vehicle. Victims likely will be thrown from their bike and may strike the pavement or other fixed objects, which can cause catastrophic injuries. When the negligence of drivers has led to your injuries, you may benefit from speaking with a Gautier bicycle accident lawyer.

Bicycle accident claims often are more complex than motor vehicle accident claims because the probability of severe injuries to bicyclists is high. Since the laws that govern bicycles differ from those that govern motor vehicles, it is best to retain the services of a knowledgeable attorney. An experienced personal injury lawyer can be vital to your ability to successfully recover damages in a bicycle accident claim.

Common Causes of Bicycle Collisions

Most catastrophic and fatal bicycle accidents result from collisions with motor vehicles. The weight, speed, and overall size of motor vehicles can have devastating effects on bicyclists when a wreck occurs. Some of the most common scenarios that result in bicycle accidents include the following:

  • Drivers cut off bicyclists as they are entering or exiting a roadway
  • Occupants of parked vehicles open their doors into the path of oncoming cyclists
  • Distracted motorists
  • Drivers make right turns across bike lanes as bicyclists are proceeding straight ahead
  • Driving under the influence
  • Motorists rear-end bicyclists when they are trying to maneuver around other cars parked in bike lanes

In some cases, bicyclists also may share responsibility for causing the accident. Whatever the circumstances may be, injured bicyclists may have a cause of action against drivers if they are negligent in causing the accident that led to injuries.

Steps to Take Following a Bike Wreck

In the aftermath of a bicycle wreck, individuals may be unsure of what to do first. Although individuals may be unable to take these steps in the case of severe injuries, they should take some actions to protect their rights if they can do so. These steps include:

  • Calling the police and remaining at the scene until they arrive
  • Getting identifying information of those involved in the wreck, including names, addresses, telephone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information
  • Documenting the accident scene through photos, diagrams, and written accounts
  • Getting contact information from witnesses

When individuals have suffered injuries in bike crashes, insurance companies may try to contact them right away. In many cases, insurance adjustors seek to contact injured parties when they are at their most vulnerable and offer them a quick and low settlement. However, individuals in this situation should speak with a bicycle accident lawyer in Gautier before accepting any settlement offer to ensure that it is in their best interests.

Negligence in Gautier Bicycle Accidents

When a driver’s negligence leads to a Gautier bicycle accident, drivers may be liable for the costs of any property damage or personal injuries that result. All drivers owe others a duty of reasonable care when on the road, including other motorists, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. When the conduct of a driver falls below this standard of care, they may be liable in a personal injury lawsuit.

With the help of a bicycle accident attorney in Gautier, bicyclists may be able to recover damages related to their injuries. Injured claimants may be eligible to recover compensation for damages such as medical expenses, pain and suffering, and mental anguish.

Seek Help From a Gautier Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

If you are injured in a bicycle accident, you likely will need to help to determine whether you have a personal injury claim. Various factors affect your ability to bring a successful bicycle accident claim. A Gautier bicycle accident lawyer can be vital in deciding whether you have a valid claim to pursue.

Call today to learn more about how an attorney could help your case.