At Lance Bingham Personal Injury Lawyers, our West Jordan bicycle accident lawyers help cyclists injured on Utah roads. Bicycle accidents are particularly hazardous because Utah drivers are becoming more and more distracted, and riders have minimal protection. Even minor collisions with a car or truck can cause broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries. The Utah Department of Public Safety reports over 800 bicycle crashes each year, many resulting in catastrophic injuries.
Cyclists face greater risks than motorists. Traffic speed, distracted driving, and a lack of bike lanes make injuries more likely. Utah bicyclists may suffer long-term consequences, including lost wages and ongoing medical expenses. We help injured cyclists navigate the entire claim process all the way through trial if necessary. Our goal is to protect your legal rights and secure fair compensation for future medical expenses, property damage, and other losses.
We represent bicycle accident victims in Utah, including those in West Jordan and Salt Lake City. Our personal injury attorneys understand the entire process and handle complex cases against drivers, insurance companies, and municipalities. We work to ensure that cyclists receive prompt medical care, compensation for lost income, and ongoing support during their recovery. Your safety and recovery are our top priority.
Our West Jordan Bicycle Accident Lawyer Fights for Your Rights
We are committed to helping cyclists who have been injured by a negligent driver. Our bicycle accident attorneys are skilled in handling complex claims, negotiating with insurance adjusters, and have the reputation of taking cases to trial when fair settlements cannot be reached. We work to ensure fair compensation for medical bills, future medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages.
We take on cases involving car collisions, trucks, and motor vehicles, as well as accidents caused by distracted driving, traffic violations, hazards in the roadway, or municipal negligence. Our team gathers police reports, witness statements, and medical records to build strong evidence. We guide Utah bicyclists through the legal process, fight for their legal rights, and focus on securing the full value of their bicycle accident claims.
We offer free consultation and handle cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for your injuries.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in West Jordan
Bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons. Cyclists often face hazards that drivers do not see. Understanding common causes helps us gather evidence and recover damages for our clients.
- Distracted Driving: Motorists who text, eat, or talk on the phone may hit cyclists. Bicycle accident injuries often occur when drivers fail to pay attention to riders who have the same rights on the road.
- Failure to Yield at Intersections: Cars turning without yielding to bikes can cause crashes. We investigate the fault and collect police reports and witness statements.
- Dooring Accidents: Drivers opening doors into the path of a rider can cause serious injuries. Cyclists must ride with at least one hand on the handlebars to try to avoid collisions.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Vehicles that ignore Utah bicycle laws or drive aggressively increase the risk of accidents. These crashes often result in common injuries like broken bones or road rash.
Types of Bicycle Accidents We Handle
Bicycle accidents take many forms, each requiring careful investigation. Our firm handles all types and works to secure full compensation for our clients.
- Collisions with Motor Vehicles: Bikes struck by cars or trucks can result in catastrophic injuries. We gather medical records, repair estimates, and witness statements.
- Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accidents: When a driver leaves the scene, it complicates the claims process. We trace the vehicle and hold the responsible party accountable.
- Bike Lane and Crosswalk Accidents: Accidents often occur when drivers fail to obey Utah bicycle laws or fail to watch for pedestrians. We document the accident scene carefully.
- Crashes Caused by Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, or uneven surfaces can cause cyclists to fall. We collect evidence to show negligence by municipalities or property owners.
Injuries Common in Bicycle Accidents
Cyclists are vulnerable, so accidents often lead to serious injuries. Understanding the most common injuries helps us handle personal injury cases effectively.
- Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries: Helmets reduce risk, but traumatic brain injuries still occur in crashes. We include medical attention and long-term care in claims.
- Spinal Cord Damage and Paralysis: Accidents can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring ongoing therapy and support. We fight to recover damages for future medical expenses.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Collisions often break arms, legs, or ribs. We calculate the cost for treatment and lost wages.
- Severe Road Rash and Lacerations: Sliding across pavement can cause deep cuts and burns. We document injuries and repair estimates to ensure fair compensation.
We help Utah bicycle accident victims in West Jordan and Salt Lake City understand their rights and recover money for medical bills, lost income, and other losses. Our personal injury attorneys guide clients through the entire process, handling insurers and legal burdens so riders can focus on recovery.
Utah Bicycle Laws Cyclists Should Know
Utah law provides clear guidelines to ensure cyclists can share the road safely with motorists while protecting their legal rights. Utah’s Most Relevant Bicycle Laws include:
- Definition of a Bicycle: A bicycle is defined as a human-powered vehicle with wheels at least 14 inches in diameter and includes electric-assisted bicycles (Utah Code Ann. § 41-6a-102).
- Rights and Duties: Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators (Utah Code Ann. § 41-6a-1102).
- Safe Passing Distance: Drivers must keep at least three feet between their vehicle and a cyclist when passing (Utah Code Ann. § 41-6a-706.5).
- Riding Position: Cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic and as close as practicable to the right-hand edge of the road, except when passing, turning left, or avoiding hazards (Utah Code Ann. § 41-6a-1105).
- Left Turns and Hand Signals: Cyclists may complete a two-part left turn or use a left-turn lane like motorists (Utah Code Ann. §§ 41-6a-1108, 41-6a-801). Hand signals are required for turns and stops (Utah Code Ann. § 41-6a-804).
- Yielding and Lane Use: Riders must yield to pedestrians, may ride two abreast without impeding traffic, and must keep one hand on the handlebars at all times (Utah Code Ann. §§ 41-6a-1105, 41-6a-1106, 41-6a-1112).
- Stop Signs: Cyclists may treat stop signs as yield signs if they slow down and yield to pedestrians or oncoming traffic posing an immediate hazard (Utah Code Ann. § 41-6a-1105).
- Night Riding Requirements: A white front light and red rear reflector or lamp visible from at least 500 feet are required when riding at night (Utah Code Ann. § 41-6a-1616(3)).
- Sidewalks and Insurance Protections: Cyclists may ride on sidewalks unless prohibited by local law, and minors may always do so (Utah Code Ann. § 41-6a-1106). If involved in an accident, cyclists are entitled to PIP, uninsured, and underinsured motorist coverage (Utah Code Ann. §§ 31A-22-308, 31A-22-305, 31A-22-305.3).
Understanding these laws helps cyclists stay compliant and safe on Utah’s roads. By knowing their rights and obligations, riders can better protect themselves and enjoy greater confidence while sharing the road with motorists.
Determining Liability in a Bicycle Accident Case
Determining who is at fault in a bicycle accident can be a complex process. Multiple parties may be involved, and the legal burden falls on us to prove the negligence of others.
- Negligent Drivers: Motorists who violate Utah law, drive distracted, or fail to yield the right of way may be held liable. We examine police reports, witness statements, and accident scenes to establish fault.
- Government Entities Responsible for Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, or poorly maintained roads can cause accidents. We document these hazards and pursue claims against responsible entities.
- Manufacturers of Defective Bicycle Parts: Faulty brakes, tires, or other parts can lead to bicycle accident injuries. We investigate the equipment and pursue compensation if defects contributed to the crash.
Compensation Available for Bicycle Accident Victims
Cyclists who suffer injuries deserve fair compensation. We help victims recover damages for both immediate and long-term needs.
- Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation: We cover hospital bills, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment for both common and severe injuries.
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity: Accidents can prevent riders from working, resulting in lost wages and a reduced earning capacity. We seek compensation for lost income and diminished future earnings.
- Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Trauma: Bicycle accidents often cause emotional distress in addition to broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries.
- Wrongful Death Damages: Families of deceased riders may recover damages for funeral costs, financial losses, and loss of companionship.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in West Jordan
If you are involved in a Utah bicycle accident, follow these steps to protect yourself and your claim:
- Report the incident immediately by calling 911
- Do not refuse medical treatment at the scene of the incident, and if not transported by ambulance, seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries are not immediately apparent
- Obtain the motorist's contact information, license plate, and insurance information
- Obtain contact information for any witnesses
- If physically able, photograph the site of the incident, damage to the bicycle, and damage to the vehicle
- Gather and preserve all evidence, including your bicycle, helmet, clothing, etc.
- Do not discuss who caused the incident or your injuries with the driver or the driver's insurance company
- Contact a personal injury attorney before speaking with any insurance company to ensure your rights are protected.
How Lance Bingham Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help
We guide Utah bicyclists through personal injury cases after a crash. Our goal is to secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
- Investigating the Accident: We collect police reports, repair estimates, and witness statements to determine the cause of the accident.
- Working With Medical and Accident Experts: We consult professionals to document bicycle accident injuries and future medical expenses.
- Negotiating With Insurance Companies: We work with insurance adjusters to secure a fair settlement and avoid low offers.
- Representing You in Court if Needed: If insurers refuse a fair settlement, we are trial-ready to fight for full compensation.
We offer a complimentary consultation and handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we successfully recover damages for your injuries.
FAQs
Do cyclists have the same rights as drivers in Utah? Yes. Under Utah law, with few exceptions, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. We make sure our clients know their legal rights and can recover damages when motor vehicles cause accidents.
Do I need to wear a helmet? Helmets are not legally required for all riders, but they are strongly recommended. Proper safety gear helps prevent severe injuries and supports personal injury cases in West Jordan.
What if the driver fled the scene? If a driver leaves, you may file an uninsured motorist claim. We gather police reports, witness statements, and other evidence to hold the responsible party accountable.
Can I recover damages if partly at fault? Yes. Utah uses a comparative negligence system. You can recover a fair settlement if your fault is below 50 percent. We ensure insurance companies honor this rule.
How long do I have to file a claim? Depends on who else was involved in the incident. Although you generally have four years under Utah law (§78B-2-307) to file a claim for a bicycle accident, that time period is substantially shorter if a governmental agency or municipality is involved.
Can families file claims after a fatal crash? Yes. Families can pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. We help Utah bicycle accident victims secure compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional losses.
Contact Our West Jordan Bicycle Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Evaluation
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, protecting your rights is critical. At Lance Bingham Personal Injury Lawyers, we provide free consultations and handle cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover damages.
We guide clients through the entire process, gather police reports, witness statements, and medical records, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure a fair settlement. Whether you suffered common injuries, severe injuries, or lost wages, our bicycle accident attorneys fight to get you full compensation. Contact us today to start your free case evaluation and protect your legal rights.
