Cumberland Bicycle Accident Attorney
Bicycle accidents can have life-altering consequences, leaving victims with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting medical expenses. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Cumberland, Maryland, Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP is here to help. Our experienced Cumberland bicycle accident attorneys are dedicated to securing the compensation you need to recover and move forward.
Common Bicycle Accident Risks in Cumberland
Cumberland offers scenic routes and bike-friendly streets, making it a popular location for cycling enthusiasts. However, the growing number of cyclists sharing the road with motor vehicles increases the risk of accidents. Common causes of bicycle accidents in Cumberland include:
- Distracted Driving: Motorists failing to pay attention to the road may not see cyclists in time to avoid collisions.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers often underestimate a cyclist’s speed or disregard their right of way at intersections.
- Road Hazards: Potholes, uneven pavement, and debris can cause cyclists to lose control and crash.
- Dooring Accidents: Cyclists riding near parked cars risk being struck by an unexpectedly opened car door.
- Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a significant danger to bicyclists.
When these accidents occur, victims can suffer severe injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and more.
Your Legal Rights After a Bicycle Accident
Bicycles are “vehicles” for the purpose of Maryland traffic laws, and cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. Additionally, some laws specifically protect bicycle riders, such as the requirement to provide at least three feet of space when passing a bicycle and not returning to the lane until it is safe for the cyclist.
If a motorist’s negligence caused your bicycle accident, you have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation, as well as lost wages and loss of earning capacity. Importantly, a personal injury claim can include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other so-called “noneconomic” damages that can be every bit as harmful, if not more so, as economic damages such as doctor bills, lost income, and physical damage to your bicycle.
One key aspect of Maryland personal injury is the prohibition on contributory negligence, meaning you must prove the driver was entirely at fault to recover damages. If you are considered to be the least bit at fault, this rule prevents you from recovering under the law. Our attorneys are skilled in gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
How Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP Can Help
With decades of experience representing personal injury victims in Maryland, our team understands the unique challenges bicycle accident victims face and how important personalized attention is to a successful claim. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your goals, and craft a legal strategy tailored to your needs. We prioritize building a strong case as well, meticulously investigating the accident scene, collecting evidence, and analyzing police reports to establish liability. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or fighting for you in court, we are relentless in pursuing maximum compensation. To best serve you, we handle bicycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Bicycle Safety in Cumberland
Preventing bicycle accidents is a shared responsibility between cyclists and motorists. To reduce the risk of accidents, cyclists should:
- Wear a helmet and reflective gear for visibility and safety.
- Obey all traffic laws, including stopping at red lights and yielding where required.
- Use hand signals to communicate your intentions to drivers.
- Ride with traffic, not against it.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions, such as using headphones while cycling.
Motorists, for their part, should give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing and remain vigilant in areas where cyclists are likely to be present.
Contact a Cumberland Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a family member has been injured in a bicycle accident in Cumberland, don’t try to handle the claim process without professional legal advice and representation. The compassionate and experienced attorneys at Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP are here to help you seek justice and secure the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at 800-827-2667 for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your options. Let us fight for your rights while you focus on healing.
