Need help from a road rage bicycle accident lawyer? Speak with a Bicycle Accident Lawyers Group attorney today. We explain your rights in plain English and fight for the full value of your claim.
The NHTSA defines aggressive driving as “the operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger persons or property.” Common violations include speeding, tailgating, rapid lane changes, and ignoring traffic signals. Road rage goes further, involving a deliberate intent to harm or intimidate another road user, which can result in criminal charges.
According to the NHTSA, aggressive driving contributes to 66% of traffic fatalities. When that aggression targets a cyclist, the consequences can include serious accidents and life-changing injuries. It is best to keep away from such drivers and report them as soon as possible.
Aggression, misunderstanding, poor road conditions, and lack of traffic etiquette are the underlying causes of most such incidents that involve cyclists. Other reasons behind these collisions include:
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Out of all the traffic participants, cyclists belong to one of the most vulnerable categories due to the lack of reliable protection. The most common injuries that they are susceptible to are the following:
Being thrown off your bike may lead to various traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, and concussions.
The legs, arms, ribs, and collarbones of cyclists are rarely covered with any protective layer, which means that they absorb the full impact of the collision, whether being hit by the motor vehicle or from the impact with the ground.
Spine traumas are the direct result of falling off the bike. The damage varies depending on the speed of the cyclist or the driver.
Broken teeth, lacerations, and facial fractures are the expected consequences of colliding with the pavement.
Cuts and skin abrasions are the aftermath of sliding on the concrete. Seemingly minor, these traumas can trigger severe infections.
Chest injuries are the direct result of bicycle accidents. The damage varies depending on the speed of the cyclist or the driver.
Many cyclists facing road rage may feel confused as to what to do and how to behave after the rage incident occurs. While the consequences of every situation differ, so does the driver’s reaction. Use these simple tips to protect yourself and your future aggressive driving claim.
Usually, an injured cyclist can recover economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. The last option is the rarest of all since it implies extreme recklessness, intentional acts of harm, and danger to society. The measure is used on top of the agreed compensation, serving as an exemplary measure.
Economic and non-economic measures cover the losses that an injured party sustains as a direct result of the accident. Both monetary and non-monetary losses can be compensated in full. However, in some cases, it takes a trained legal expert to succeed with the claim.
The financial expenses from every hospital visit can and should be recovered. Past, present, and future treatment costs are included in the settlement estimate and shared with the insurance company or any responsible party.
If the cyclist has to take some time off work, or the accident has a long-term impact on their earning capability, the loss of income must be fairly compensated. Some cases may require additional medical proof and other documentation to prove the stated condition.
The amount of pain, emotional distress, and loss of joy in life can’t be calculated in a precise monetary equivalent, but it does not mean that your suffering should go uncompensated. On the contrary, a skilled attorney will help you build a solid case and claim the settlement you deserve.
Most accidents involve a fair share of property damage — it’s not very likely that the bicycle goes undamaged after a collision with a car. The entire cost of repairs or total replacement of your belongings, such as the bike, protective gear, and various devices, is up for a rightful reimbursement.
Sometimes, bicyclists sustain traumas that result in scarring and even permanent disfigurement. Such physical changes may have a negative toll on the victim’s mental state. Based on the amount of suffering, a seasoned injury attorney will calculate the settlement suitable for the mentioned losses.
Aggressive driving is more than just a term applied to traffic participants who choose to violate rules and cause harm to others. Most states recognize this dangerous behavior as a traffic offense punishable by fines, mandatory driving courses, and points off of the motorist’s record. In some cases, these instances can be classified as criminal offenses, including assault, battery, or reckless driving, if they lead to severe damage and harm.
More than 40 states have also enacted safe passing laws requiring motorists to maintain at least three feet of distance when overtaking a cyclist, and a growing number impose heightened penalties under vulnerable road user statutes. Injured cyclists can file personal injury claims separate from any criminal case to recover compensation for their losses. Jail time is also on the list for the most severe offenses.
Often, cyclists facing road rage try to deal with the case on their own. While it’s possible to receive a settlement for your claim without legal assistance, there are vital perks that trained practitioners can bring into the case.
A seasoned lawyer will help you understand your rights, legal procedures, and potential complications. They will help you file the claim on time and ensure that it contains all the details it should in order to win the case.
Most insurers will try to persuade you to settle for minimal compensation, whereas an experienced attorney will navigate potential “intentional acts” denials and negotiate the fairest reimbursement.
A reputable legal representative can gather missing pieces of information and critical evidence to support your claim and transform it into a successful case.
Sometimes, a claim turns into a lawsuit, and an experienced lawyer will assist you in taking it to trial, advocating on your behalf until you recover the reimbursement you deserve.
Our experienced attorneys work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve for medical expenses.
Most cyclists facing road rage and its aftermath have never worked with personal injury attorneys. Not knowing where to start may feel daunting, considering the challenges that you are already dealing with. However, it takes only a few simple steps to find a trusted lawyer who will help you make the most of your claim.
Look for legal practitioners who possess enough knowledge and insight in this legal niche.
Consider attorneys who have already worked with bike rage cases and have similar settlements under their belt.
A proven track record speaks of professionalism and dedication, meaning that the chances of a favorable outcome for your claim increase.
Knowing all the intricacies of local and state laws gives the law firm an advantage throughout every stage of the process.
Road rage towards cyclists is unacceptable, and we can help you hold aggressive drivers accountable! If you’ve been injured in a cycling incident, call us today or fill out our contact form!
Once you schedule a free consultation, our experts will review your case and suggest the most plausible course of action. Don’t wait to act and succeed!
If you’re a cyclist who has been in an accident, call today for a free initial consult about your legal claim. We’re here to help with your legal questions. Contact our law firm for coast-to-coast bike accident and personal injury representation.
