Newport Bicycle Accident Lawyers
The roads are public spaces, and bicyclists are entitled to use that space like any other vehicle. Unfortunately, drivers seem to hog the road and are careless about the bikers who could get hurt. Merk & Gile, Injury Attorneys, stands up for bicyclists’ rights. We see the damage cars inflict on bike riders, and we help you get the compensation you deserve.
With dedicated legal care, our firm works with you toward a positive outcome. Our Newport-based bike accident attorneys are passionate about standing up for injured people throughout the Cincinnati metropolitan area. We hold insurance companies to account and fight for you to get the best possible medical care.
Call our office and schedule a free consultation at 513-838-2511.
How Do I Know If I Have A Bicycle Accident Claim?
If you were hit by a car and injured while you were riding your bike, you may have a motor vehicle accident claim. Even if you think you might have been partially at fault because you were riding on the sidewalk where it is illegal to do so, were on the wrong side of the road or otherwise might have made a mistake, you still might have a claim. Do not give up. Speak with a skilled lawyer.
Are Bike Wreck Cases Handled Differently Than Other Car Accident Cases?
Every case has its own unique nuances, and bike accident claims are certainly no exception. Success in any claim requires careful investigation, attention to detail and hard work. Bike accidents tend to unfold differently than car accidents. They may happen because cars pull too far out of parking lots, alleys or driveways and hit a bike rider riding on the side of the road. That is the sort of thing that does not happen in car accident claims. Does that significantly alter how we approach the case?
Ultimately, we will approach the bike accident case with all of the unique details in mind and develop a strategy that is unique to your claim in order to pursue results that include medical compensation and lost wage compensation.
What If The Negligent Driver Left The Scene Of The Bike Crash?
While hit-and-run is illegal, it is still all too common. In some cases, the careless driver might not even realize that they caused a bike crash. The police may find the person who committed the hit-and-run, especially if there were witnesses or cameras nearby. If they do, the careless driver may be charged criminally, and you can pursue a personal injury claim. If the driver is never found, you may still be able to get compensation through your own auto insurance policy.
Seeking Compensation For No-Contact Bike Accidents
There are also cases in which there was no contact between the careless driver’s car and the bike rider, but the bike rider was injured after taking evasive action to avoid being hit by the car. Imagine a car suddenly swerving into a bike lane, forcing you to veer off the road to avoid a collision. Or consider a driver who abruptly stops in front of you, causing you to brake hard and fall. No-contact bicycle accidents can be just as devastating as collisions involving direct contact.
Even without physical contact, drivers can still be held legally responsible for these accidents. In Ohio, drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and respect the rights of cyclists on the road. If a driver’s reckless or negligent behavior causes you to crash, they may be liable for your injuries and other damages.
One of the most common challenges of pursuing a no-contact accident claim is identifying the at-fault driver. They might drive off without stopping to make sure you are okay. Because they didn’t make direct contact with you or your vehicle, criminal liability for a hit-and-run accident is, at best, unclear. Nonetheless, if drivers can be identified, they can face civil liability in a personal injury claim. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of no-contact bicycle accidents and are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes Of Bike Accidents
Cyclists face a host of dangers on the road. They must be cautious of more than just a direct impact. Biking accidents occur for many reasons, including:
- Being cut off in traffic
- Inattentive drivers who cause major swerves
- Parked drivers opening doors
- Loosened debris
- Hit-and-runs
If careless driving leads to your bike accident, you can demand substantial compensation. You can get help paying for broken bones, head injuries and other wounds. Our bicycle accident lawyers can bring your case forward and maximize the insurance payout you receive. Your needs matter.
The Connection Between Bicycle Accidents And Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most common and serious consequences of bicycle accidents. A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that between 2009 and 2018, hospital emergency departments throughout the United States treated nearly 597,000 TBIs related to bicycle accidents. Rates of brain injury are high even for riders who wear helmets (although wearing a helmet is still a far safer choice than going without one).
When you suffer from a TBI, it can affect your ability to work, take care of yourself and enjoy everyday activities. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. They can take months or years to heal (when full recovery is even possible).
It is crucial to seek maximum compensation after suffering a brain injury to cover these costs. Adequate compensation can help you access high-quality medical care and support services, as well as maintain financial stability during recovery. Our attorneys understand what’s at stake for a client who suffers a brain injury, and they work tirelessly to ensure you have the resources you need and deserve.
Contact Our Office For A Free Consultation
Strong advocacy. Passionate legal skills. Empathetic care. These are our promises to you. At Merk & Gile, you can trust that we see your needs. We want to ensure you have the support you require for recovery, and we will fight to make that happen. Come in to talk to us.