West Valley City Bicycle Accident Lawyer

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West Jordan Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Cyclists are especially vulnerable on the roads of West Valley City. When collisions happen with motor vehicles, the common injuries are often severe and life-altering. Bicycle accidents can lead to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and fractures, sometimes even fatal injuries. Cyclists are at a higher risk due to the lack of protection compared to motor vehicle drivers.

In addition to the physical pain, victims face complex challenges when seeking compensation. Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame to cyclists, making it more difficult for them to recover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

At Lance Bingham, P.C., our West Valley City bicycle accident lawyer is dedicated to helping injured cyclists get the compensation they deserve. We are familiar with personal injury law, local traffic laws, bike lanes, and the insurance claims process. Our goal is to fight for your rights and hold the negligent parties accountable.

Our West Valley City Bicycle Accident Attorney Fights for Injured Cyclists

At Lance Bingham, P.C., we understand the unique challenges of bicycle accident cases. Our lead attorney knows firsthand how dangerous the roads can be for bike riders. We are committed to representing injured cyclists in West Valley City, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.

Our approach is thorough. We begin by investigating the crash scene, gathering all necessary evidence like witness statements and police reports. We then negotiate with insurance providers to ensure your claim is treated fairly. If necessary, we are prepared to litigate your case to secure the best possible outcome.

We are committed to addressing the anti-cyclist bias that frequently arises in these cases. Our team works to prove the driver’s negligence, whether it’s distracted driving, speeding, or failure to yield the right of way. Our ultimate goal is to achieve maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any damaged equipment. We fight for injured cyclists to get the fair settlement they deserve.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in West Valley City

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in West Valley City

Most bicycle accidents are caused by driver negligence and a failure to share the road safely with cyclists. Whether it's a lack of awareness, speeding, or simply ignoring traffic laws, these accidents can lead to serious injuries for bicycle riders.

According to bicycle accident statistics, many cycling accidents could have been prevented if drivers were more careful. Bicycle accidents often result in severe injuries, and the victims face significant challenges in pursuing compensation. Understanding the common causes of these accidents can help improve safety for cyclists.

The Right Hook

One common cause of bicycle accidents is the "right hook," which occurs when a driver passes a cyclist and then makes a right turn directly into their path. This can happen when drivers fail to notice cyclists or underestimate their speed. The result is often a crash that can cause severe injuries to the cyclist, as they are forced to collide with the turning vehicle.

The Left Cross

A "left cross" happens when a driver makes a left turn at an intersection without yielding to an oncoming cyclist. This type of accident is especially dangerous because the driver fails to see the cyclist, who has the right of way. Cyclists involved in left cross accidents often suffer from serious injuries, as they are hit directly by the vehicle.

Dooring

"Dooring" accidents occur when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of a cyclist. This occurs when the driver or passenger fails to check for oncoming bicyclists before opening their door. Dooring accidents can lead to minor injuries or severe injuries, such as broken bones or head trauma, depending on the force of the impact.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are common in cycling accidents, especially when a driver fails to notice a cyclist in front of them. The driver may be distracted or not expect the cyclist to be on the road. These accidents can cause serious injuries to cyclists, as they are struck from behind without warning.

Failure to Yield at Intersections

Another common cause of bicycle accidents is a driver failing to yield at intersections. This happens when drivers run stop signs or red lights and collide with cyclists who have the right-of-way. Failure to yield is a serious violation of traffic laws and often results in severe injuries to bicyclists.

Unsafe Passing

Unsafe passing occurs when a driver overtakes a cyclist without providing the legally required three feet of space. This is not only dangerous but also illegal under Utah bicycle laws. When drivers fail to give cyclists sufficient space, it can lead to a crash, resulting in injuries ranging from minor to severe.

Unsafe Road Conditions

Cyclists also face hazards created by unsafe road conditions. Potholes, cracked pavement, poorly designed bike lanes, and construction debris can all contribute to a cycling accident. These conditions can cause a cyclist to lose control of their bike, resulting in serious injuries. Cyclists are at the mercy of road conditions, and when those conditions are dangerous, accidents can happen.

By understanding these common causes, we can work to prevent future accidents and make West Valley City a safer place for bicycle riders. If you have been injured in a cycling accident, an experienced lawyer can help you pursue compensation and hold the liable parties accountable.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Bicycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection when a cyclist is hit by a vehicle. The force of a crash can lead to life-altering injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries, fractures, and internal injuries. Even minor accidents can result in significant damage, and more serious bike crashes can be fatal.

Common bicycle accident injuries include:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head injuries are common in bike accidents, even with a helmet. TBIs can range from concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can cause paralysis, requiring ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Fractures and Broken Bones: Broken arms, legs, ribs, and other bones are common after a bicycle crash.
  • Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries: Skin abrasions and tissue damage are frequent in accidents, especially when cyclists are thrown from their bikes.

We understand the severity of these injuries and are dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in West Valley City

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in West Valley City

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, it's essential to take steps that protect your health and your legal rights. Here is a step-by-step guide to follow:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to see a doctor. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately. A medical report is essential for treating bicycle accident injuries and documenting your case.

2. Document the Bicycle Accident Scene

If possible, take photos of the accident scene, the vehicle involved, your injuries, and any damage to your bicycle. This evidence will be vital for your bicycle accident claim. Be sure to get witness statements and information, as they can help prove the other party's negligence.

3. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters

Do not give any statements to the insurance company of the at-fault party. They may use your words against you to reduce your compensation. Instead, speak with a personal injury lawyer before talking to insurers.

4. Contact a Utah Bicycle Accident Lawyer

It’s crucial to consult with an experienced Utah bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible. Our legal team will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident and gather all necessary evidence, including medical records and witness statements. We’ll fight to hold the at-fault party accountable and recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain, and suffering.

5. Protect Your Legal Rights

Bicycle accident victims often face challenges when dealing with insurance companies and proving liability. We work tirelessly to ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Recoverable Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims

Bicycle accident victims are entitled to recover compensation for the damages they’ve suffered. This includes both economic and non-economic damages. We fight for your right to financial recovery and work to secure the maximum compensation available under Utah law.

Economic Damages

These damages cover measurable losses, such as:

  • Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, and long-term medical care.
  • Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the time you needed to recover from your injuries.
  • Future Earnings: If your injuries affect your ability to work in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for lost future earnings.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages account for the emotional toll of the accident. This includes:

  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and mental anguish caused by your injuries.
  • Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, and PTSD that can result from the trauma of the accident.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the accident has prevented you from participating in activities you once enjoyed.
  • Permanent Disability: If your injuries cause long-term or permanent disability, you may be entitled to compensation for the impact on your life.

We strive to ensure that you receive full compensation for both your economic and non-economic damages, enabling you to focus on healing and moving forward.

How Utah's Comparative Fault Law Applies

How Utah's Comparative Fault Law Applies

Utah's modified comparative fault rule, also known as the 51% Bar Rule, can affect your personal injury claim after a bicycle accident. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, such as not following bicycle safety rules or not using a light at night, you can still recover compensation. However, your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your recovery will be reduced by 20%.

If you are found 51% or more at fault, you are barred from recovering any compensation. In personal injury cases, it's important to prove negligence on the part of the other party to ensure you receive a fair settlement. At our law firm, we fight against unfair blame placed on injured bicyclists. If you’ve been injured, call us for a free consultation to explore your legal options and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Why You Need a Lawyer Who Understands Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accident cases require more than just a general personal injury lawyer. A specialized lawyer who understands bicycle accidents is familiar with the unique dynamics of cycling, including local road conditions, bike lanes, and common hazards that cyclists encounter. At Lance Bingham, P.C., we are deeply familiar with the issues that affect injured cyclists, from traffic laws to the defense tactics employed by insurance companies.

We have the resources to hire accident reconstructionists and bike mechanics to prove liability in these complex cases. Our team is dedicated to effective client communication and works diligently to achieve justice for cyclists. Whether you’ve suffered serious injuries or lost income, we are dedicated to securing the full compensation you deserve after the accident happened. We will fight tirelessly on your behalf.

FAQs

Do I need a lawyer if I was hit by a car while biking?

Yes. Insurance companies often wrongfully blame cyclists. We thoroughly investigate, prove driver negligence, and fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.

What if I wasn't wearing a helmet?

Under Utah law, not wearing a helmetcannot be used as evidence of negligence. It does not automatically bar you from receiving compensation.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a bicycle accident?

The statute of limitations for personal injury in Utah is four yearsfrom the date of the accident. However, evidence must be gathered immediately.

What if the driver who hit me fled the scene?

You may still recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage or by identifying the driver. We can help explore all options.

How much is my bicycle accident case worth?

Value depends on injury severity, liability, and impact on your life. We consult experts to calculate a full and fair value for your claim.

How do I pay for a bicycle accident lawyer?

We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney fees unless we win compensation for you through a settlement or verdict.

Contact Our West Valley City Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

Contact Our West Valley City Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

A serious bicycle accident can disrupt your life physically, emotionally, and financially. At Lance Bingham, P.C., we understand the challenges faced by bicycle accident victims and are committed to helping them. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your specific incident and explain all your legal options.

It’s important to act quickly to protect your rights and gather evidence before it is lost or destroyed. With our contingency fee structure, you won’t have to worry about upfront costs. You only pay if we win compensation for you.

Don't let a driver's negligence derail your life. Let our experienced West Valley City bicycle accident attorneys fight for the justice and compensation you need to recover. Call us today.

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