As a bicyclist, you have the same rights on the road as drivers of regular motor vehicles. In other words, you have the right to expect motorists to exercise caution around you. And if you do get into an accident due to driver error, you have the right to collect compensation from the negligent motorist for your injuries. However, this is easier said than done. Unless you have expertise in Texas personal injury law, you will need assistance from a reliable lawyer.
At Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP, our Dallas personal injury lawyers are dedicated to helping our clients prove their injury claim and get the settlement or verdict they need to make a full recovery. Whether your case is dealt with in negotiations or necessitates a trial, we are ready and willing to fight aggressively to protect your interests. If you wish to learn more about your legal options, feel free to give us a call at (214) 231-0555.
Getting You the Compensation You Need
Using supporting material evidence and sound legal arguments, our Dallas car accident attorneys will do their best to establish not only your claim but also the full extent of your damages so you can get full and fair compensation for all damages that have resulted from your crash, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Cost of property repairs or replacement
- Pain and suffering
What Are Some Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Although there are various causal factors which can contribute to a bicycle collision, the most common ones are:
- Left Turn Intersection Collision: A driver may forget to check for and yield to any vehicles, including bicycles, coming from the opposite direction before making a left turn, leading to a crash.
- Sideswipe Collision: All motorists are expected to give bicyclists enough space when passing. However, some get impatient and attempt very risky, narrow passes, which can result in a sideswipe collision.
- Dooring Accident: After a motorist parks on the side of the street, s/he should check not only for passing vehicles, but also for passing bicyclists before opening the car door. Otherwise, s/he may open the door right into the path of an oncoming bicyclist, potentially causing a serious, or even deadly, accident.
As soon as you consult with us, we will get started on an investigation of your case right away so we can determine the cause and begin constructing an effective legal campaign for your claim.
Common Injuries Suffered by Bicyclists When Hit by a Car
Due to the size difference between a bicycle and a car or truck, bicycle riders are at a severe disadvantage in the event of an accident. An impact from a much-larger car transfers a huge amount of energy into the bike as well as the rider, and almost always results in the rider being thrown from the bike. Predictably, these accidents can cause severe and life-threatening injuries to the rider. Some of the most common injuries from a bicycle-car collision include:
- Head and brain injuries: Whether from head trauma from the collision or from landing on the ground, a sudden blow can cause a concussion, tearing of blood vessels, damage to the cranial nerves, skull fracture, brain bleeds, and swelling of the brain. Additional injuries to other parts of the head can include trauma to the eyes, dental fractures, facial contusions, and soft tissue injuries.
- Neck injuries: The sudden changes in direction that often occur during a bicycle collision can cause damage to the neck like whiplash or a neck sprain. The rapid jerking motion causes damage to the discs, ligaments, cervical muscles, and nerves in the neck.
- Back injuries: Back injuries can result from the fall from the bicycle or from impact with another object. Damage can be to the bone or soft tissue of the back, or in extreme cases, to the spinal cord.
- Broken bones: Because of the instinctual reaction to try to break your fall, most bike riders extend their arms and hands during a collision. The result is often fractures to the scaphoid, radius, ulna, or wrist. It is also common to see fractures in the legs.
- Internal injuries: The blunt force trauma of the collision or landing on another surface can result in internal injuries. This can include compression of the internal organs such as the liver or the spleen, which results in internal bleeding.
In the event of an accident involving a bicyclist, it is imperative that the rider get medical attention immediately. Even if there are no visible injuries, the potential for internal injuries is very high and could result in death if not properly treated.
After a Fatal Bicycle Accident
During your time of mourning, there is no need for you to carry the added burden of medical bills, legal bills, and other financial concerns. Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP is here to see that you receive justice and compensation, while you work to recover from the loss of your loved one.
In a wrongful death claim, you could recover both actual damages and punitive damages. Actual damages can include:
- Financial losses such as loss of future earning capacity, services, support, maintenance, and counsel.
- Mental suffering and emotional stress as the result of the death of your loved one.
- Loss of comfort and companionship.
- Loss of potential inheritance.
Punitive or exemplary damages are awarded when a jury determines that the defendant committed a willful act or an act of gross negligence that resulted in the death of your loved one.
Why You Should Have Our Dallas Bike Accident Lawyers Represent You
Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP has been in the personal injury practice since 1987. That is more than 25 years of service! With plenty of experience under our belts, our legal team will give you an edge in your injury claim case. For more info, contact our office by calling (214) 231-0555 or submitting an online contact form.
