Bicycle Accident Attorneys In Bloomington, Indiana
Bicycle accidents are far too common and can have severe consequences for those involved. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable on the roads, and they often suffer serious injuries. Seeking legal assistance after a bicycle accident is crucial to protect your rights and to pursue maximum compensation for your losses.
At Langer & Langer, we understand the unique challenges faced by cyclists. Our attorney, Robert Langer, is not only a seasoned lawyer but also a professional cyclist who has been riding since 2009. His extensive experience in cycling gives him a deep understanding of cycling laws and a personal commitment to advocating for fellow cyclists in Bloomington and across Indiana.
Capable Of Handling All Types Of Bicycle Accident Claims
Bike accidents can occur in a variety of scenarios. It is a misconception that the cyclist is automatically at fault; in many cases, the driver has a total or partial fault. A few major types of bicycle accidents include:
- Collisions with vehicles: These are the most common and often the most severe, occurring when a motorist fails to see or yield to a cyclist.
- Doorings: These happen when a parked car’s door is suddenly opened into the path of a cyclist, leading to a collision.
- Left turns: A driver may fail to look before turning left, causing them to run into a bicycle.
- Road hazards: Poorly maintained roads, potholes and debris can cause cyclists to lose control and crash. In these cases, the city or a private property owner may be at fault.
The severity and impact of these accidents can vary widely, but they often lead to significant expenses for medical treatment, bike repairs and lost wages.
What Causes Indiana Bicycle Accidents?
Any given bike crash may have several contributing factors. In our considerable time in practice, we have seen firsthand the tragic aftermath of bike accidents of all kinds. These include:
- Reckless driving: Motorists may fail to yield, make unsafe turns, speed or run red lights.
- Distracted driving: The use of cell phones and other distractions can be deadly for cyclists.
- Improper road maintenance: Potholes, debris and uneven surfaces are hazardous for cyclists.
- Lack of proper signage: Inadequate road signs can contribute to accidents by failing to alert drivers and cyclists to potential hazards.
Negligence by drivers or municipalities often plays a role in these accidents. You will need a skillful personal injury attorney to establish liability, as it is often a very difficult process. Proving liability is the key to recovering the financial compensation you deserve.
The Injuries That Cyclists Face Every Day
Anyone who gets on a bicycle could face a life-altering injury. Even the safest cyclists are at risk. Because bikes do not have a metal frame around them, these injuries may be catastrophic. Examples of these catastrophic bike injuries may be:
- Bone fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage
- Paraplegia or quadriplegia (partial or total paralysis)
- Road rash
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Limb loss
Some Indiana bike accidents even result in fatalities. In Bloomington, facilities such as IU Health Bloomington Hospital and Monroe Hospital frequently provide comprehensive care for accident victims. Treatment, however, may cost thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Why You Need A Personal Injury Attorney For The Legal Process
The legal process for a bicycle injury claim is not easy. It can even seem to drown you as you struggle to stay afloat amid medical bills, work, family life and physical therapy. This is a bit of what you can expect:
- Having a lawyer assess your claim
- Locating video footage
- Interviewing witnesses
- Speaking with law enforcement officers
- Negotiating with the insurance company
- Going through discovery to find evidence
- Filing a lawsuit
- Going to trial, if necessary
Our experienced attorneys will handle everything. They have extensive knowledge of state law because they constantly read about new legal developments. They communicate with the involved parties so that you don’t have to. They also inform you of your options, educate you about your rights, and keep you updated about every new stage.
Have Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers Evaluate Your Case For Free
Whether you or someone you love had a bicycle accident, Langer & Langer can help. We provide completely free initial consultations. Please call our Valparaiso office at 219-246-4759 or send us an email for more information.
