Bike Crashes

Bicyclists are extremely vulnerable when riding on Indiana roadways. Unlike a car or truck, which have safety features like a metal cage, passenger compartment, seatbelts, and airbags, bicyclists are unprotected on the road and face a very high risk of injury if they are involved in a crash. The same fender bender that would be a minor accident for the driver of a car can cause severe and catastrophic injuries for a bicyclist.

The rules of the road are supposed to protect bike riders, but many Indiana drivers are unaccustomed to sharing the road with bicycles. They can become nervous, and may not follow the law. When drivers violate the law and hurt bicyclists as a result, we hold them accountable.

If you were injured or someone you love was killed in a bicycle accident, you and your family might be entitled to compensation. Sniderman Law represents people throughout Indiana who were injured in bicycle accidents. Attorney Mark Sniderman is a tenacious advocate who will fight for the compensation you and your family deserve.

Common Causes of Bike Crashes

Unfortunately, some Indiana drivers do not take adequate precautions to share the road and protect bicyclists from harm. Bicycle accidents can be caused by many different factors, including:

Dooring Accidents

A dooring accident occurs when a driver in a parked car opens the door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. Dooring accidents are often caused when the driver of a car fails to look for approaching cyclists before opening the door.

Rear-End Collisions

Bicycles are much smaller and weigh significantly less than passenger cars and other motor vehicles. When a driver follows too closely behind a bike, they may not have adequate time or distance to stop, which can result in a rear-end collision. The same rear-end collision that would only cause minor property damage to a vehicle can result in severe, life-altering injuries for a cyclist.

Sideswipe Accidents

When a driver passes a bicycle but does not give the bicyclist adequate room, the vehicle may strike the bicyclist, causing an accident and serious personal injuries.

Right Turn Collisions

Intersections and cars turning right turns can be lethal for cyclists. Many motorists turn right at an intersection without checking behind them for approaching bicyclists. A cyclist proceeding straight through the intersection can be struck when the vehicle turns right.

Speeding

Excessive speed is a common cause of many roadway accidents, including those involving cyclists. Speeding reduces the time a driver has to react to a hazard and increases the severity of the collision and any injuries the bicyclist sustains.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving can be caused by anything that takes a driver’s attention away from the road, such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio or a navigation device. A driver who is not paying attention is less likely to see a bicyclist, which can lead to an accident and serious injuries.

Impaired Driving

A driver who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol suffers from impaired perception and delayed reaction time, which increases the likelihood of causing a collision.

Common Injuries in a Bicycle Accident

Because a bicycle offers less protection than a passenger car or other motor vehicle, the injuries bicyclists suffer in a collision are often severe. Common injuries sustained in a bike accident include:

  • Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Facial injuries
  • Amputation
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Injuries to the head, neck, and back
  • Concussion and traumatic brain injury
  • Death

Recovering Damages After a Bicycle Crash

If you or a family member was injured or someone you love was killed in a bike crash, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Rehabilitation and physical therapy
  • Lost earnings
  • Diminished earning capacity
  • Modifications to your home or vehicle
  • Costs for residential or long-term medical care
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Emotional trauma
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium
  • Wrongful death damages

When a bike crash causes serious injuries or results in the death of the rider, Sniderman Law can help. Mark Sniderman has the experience, resources, and expertise to prove the driver was at fault, establish the measure of your damages, and secure the compensation you and your family deserve. We have represented many different types of people across the spectrum, from national team athletes to recreational bicyclists. We will analyze your situation, explain your options, and help you obtain the justice you and your family deserve.

To learn more, contact Sniderman Law today to schedule a free and confidential consultation to discuss your situation and how Attorney Sniderman can help.