Experienced Attorneys Fighting For Bicycle Accident Victims

Bicyclists are some of the most vulnerable road users in Cleveland and throughout Ohio. Yet, despite their severe injuries, bicycle accident victims often fail to get the respect and consideration they deserve. If you were seriously injured after being struck by a motor vehicle, the bicycle accident lawyers at Klein & Carney Co., LLC, will advocate aggressively to help you obtain both accountability and compensation.

Bicycle Accidents Are Often The Result Of Driver Negligence

When we investigate a bicycle accident (or a pedestrian or car accident, for that matter), the first things we look for are signs of driver negligence. This is the most common cause of motor vehicle accidents, and it is typically to blame for injuries suffered by pedestrians and bicyclists. Examples include:

• Speeding and aggressive driving
• Failure to yield the right of way, particularly to bicyclists/pedestrians in a crosswalk
• Driving in or drifting into designated bike lanes
• Distracted driving (texting, cellphone use, etc.)
• Drunk driving
• Failure to keep a lookout for bicyclists, especially while making intersection turns
• Passing too closely and failing to provide a safety buffer
• Disobeying stop signs, traffic lights and other important traffic control measures

Sadly, bicyclists are often blamed for their own injuries. This is because Ohio, like the rest of the United States, has built its infrastructure and cultural norms around motor vehicles. Our attorneys will work diligently to identify the cause of your crash and to place blame squarely where it belongs: with the driver who struck you.

Bike Accident Injuries Are Bad And Getting Worse

Bicycles offer no external protection to the rider, and their size and weight are no match for a motor vehicle. Therefore, it is common for bicyclists to suffer serious and catastrophic injuries such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Neck, back and spinal cord injuries
• Partial or complete paralysis
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Permanent disability

In recent years, bicycle accidents have only become more injurious and deadly. There are many contributing factors, but two of the most significant are increasing vehicle size and increasing speeds. SUVs are now very common on the road, and these vehicles weigh more and ride higher than a typical sedan. When they strike a bicyclist, they are more likely to strike the upper body and head area, increasing the risk of death.

Vehicle speed is also a major factor. Data show that when a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle driving 32 mph, the risk of fatality is just 25%. When the car increases its speed to 42 mph, the risk of death doubles to 50%.

The Importance Of Helmet Safety

Ohio does not have a statewide law regarding helmets. However, individual municipalities often do. The city of Cleveland does not have any regulations for bike helmets, either. Since cycling without a helmet has a higher likelihood of traumatic brain injuries, it is always wise to wear one. This is especially true if you are around rough terrain, large vehicles and busy roadways. Always replace damaged helmets. Consider wearing additional safety gear as necessary.

Cycling In Ohio: The Laws For Riders And Drivers

Bicycle riders need to understand the etiquette of the road as well as any rules that affect motor vehicle drivers. This way, you can know what to watch out for and how to avoid some accidents preemptively. You should be aware of several other laws for bicyclists that the state has in place:

• Cyclists should ride as close to the right of the road as possible. They have the right to take up the full lane if necessary.
• Cyclists may ride through a red light if a vehicle is required to trigger it.
• Every bicycle needs front and rear lights at night.
• Bicycle riders do not have to make a hand signal if they are in a turn lane or if they need both hands to operate the bike safely.

Failure to obey these rules may result in a ticket. However, the court will not add points to your license as it would to a driver who violates traffic laws.

The state also has numerous regulations in place for drivers. When it comes to bicycles, you should remember that:

• Bicycles have the right to take up an entire lane.
• Motor vehicles should leave at least three feet when passing a bicycle.
• Drivers may not enter lanes designated for bicycles.
• It is against the law to open a vehicle door if it blocks the path of an oncoming cyclist.

These infractions may lead to tickets and, in some cases, criminal charges. To get a better understanding of the laws and your rights, you should consult a bicycle accident lawyer.

Why It Is Critical To Work With A Knowledgeable Attorney

To be successful in a bicycle accident claim, you must show that the at-fault driver owed you a duty of care, violated that duty of care by driving negligently and caused your injuries through their negligent behavior. You must also demonstrate that you suffered losses (injuries, medical bills, lost wages) due to the accident.

These legal elements can be difficult to prove on your own, which is why you need to work with a skilled attorney like those at our firm. We thoroughly investigate the accident scene, gather all available evidence, and work with outside experts (when needed) to definitively show how the accident happened and why the driver was at fault. By preparing every case for trial, we put you in the best position to obtain to maximize your settlement or jury award.

Don’t Wait To Seek Legal Help – Get Started For Free

From our two office locations in Cleveland and Beachwood, the attorneys at Klein & Carney Co., LLC, serve clients throughout Northeast Ohio. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident and want to learn more about your legal options, contact us to schedule a free initial consultation. You can reach out online or call 216-502-3947.