Maryland has the perfect weather for cyclists, especially in the spring, summer and fall seasons. Coupled with the beautiful scenery, Maryland is one of the best places in the country to take your bike out for a spin. People ride bicycles leisurely, for exercise, and even as a cost-effective way to commute to and from work. However, due to a cyclist’s degree of exposure, riding a bicycle can also be extremely dangerous, especially in more heavily-populated areas. If you or someone you know has been involved in a bicycle accident, there is a very good chance you are looking into recovering financial compensation for the injuries you have sustained. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the most frequent causes of bicycle accidents?
Generally, bicycle accidents are almost always due to another motorist’s negligence. However, certain bicycle accidents have little to do with motorist negligence. For example, poor road conditions, such as potholes, or even a negligent road design may contribute to a bicycle accident. Inclement weather conditions, and sometimes faulty bicycle parts or snapped chains may also cause an accident. However, the most serious accidents occur when a cyclist is hit by an oncoming motor vehicle. Some examples of motorist negligence are as follows:
- Smoking or eating while driving
- Navigating directions while driving
- Disciplining raucous children while driving
- Failing to yield
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Unsafe lane changes
- Driving while fatigued
- Speeding
- Texting while driving
- Not checking blind spots
- Ignoring traffic signs and lights
- Failing to comply with other rules and regulations of the road
What are some injuries that have qualified for compensation?
Bicycle accidents present a wide array of potential cyclist injuries, including, but not limited to:
- Road rash
- Neck injuries
- Muscular strains
- Facial contusions
- Soft tissue injuries
- Dislocated joints
- Fractured bones
- Dental fractures
- Eye trauma
If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, there is a very good chance you are entitled to financial compensation. However, you must first satisfy the burden of proof. Hiring an experienced attorney is the most important thing you can do to help ensure you prove your claim. An attorney will help you gather evidence, such as witness testimony, security camera footage, and medical documentation regarding the extent of your injuries.
Contact our Maryland firm
If you are in this situation, it is important to discuss this situation with an attorney. The attorneys at Timian & Fawcett, LLC provide effective legal services to clients in Prince George’s County, Washington, D.C. and all of Maryland. Our firm is dedicated to our clients. If you need our help, we are ready to serve. Contact Timian & Fawcett, LLC.
