Frederick Bicycle Accident Attorney
The worst effects of crashes between bikes and cars are felt by the cyclist. For those who ride bikes, it is important to take steps to keep themselves safe. Wearing a helmet can help reduce the risk of serious head injuries or brain trauma. Dressing in brightly colored clothes and using lights and reflectors can help improve drivers’ chances of seeing a cyclist on the road. However, no matter how many steps we take to protect ourselves, riding a bike inevitably puts us at the mercy of others. Drivers who behave irresponsibly put cyclists and everyone else in danger.
While cycling comes with risks, it is still a highly popular recreational activity and a good way for many people to get around without needing a car. Many cities recognize the benefits of making communities safer for bike travel. Improvements, such as adding bike lanes, can make it less hazardous for people to cycle without having to share space with cars. Unfortunately, in many places throughout the United States, such accommodations do not exist. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration writes that about 800 or more people die in bike crashes with motor vehicles every year. We could prevent many of these tragedies if drivers behaved more responsibly.
If you were injured by a negligent driver while riding a bike, contact the dedicated personal injury attorneys at Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP to discuss your claim. Our lawyers have been working for more than 30 years to protect individuals who suffered injuries in crashes. Call 301-668-2100 to consult with one of our experienced Frederick bicycle accident attorneys.
Common Bicycle Crash Causes
While cyclists should take steps to keep themselves safe on the road, drivers cause many bike-versus-car crashes. The NHTSA reminds motorists that they should never underestimate the speed of a bike and that they are required to yield to cyclists in the same way they would for other drivers. Cyclists have the right to use the road. When drivers turn right at a red light, they must look out for cyclists approaching from behind. This situation often leads to collisions as cyclists approaching the intersection may be cutoff or struck by turning motorists. If a cyclist is riding on the right side of the road, drivers should only pass if they can give plenty of room to the individual on the bike. If there is another lane, drivers should move over. Many bicycle crashes also occur in parking lots or driveways when a driver crosses over a sidewalk. Regardless of where a driver is traveling, it is important to follow the speed limit and even travel below the speed limit if road conditions or the weather warrant extra caution. Speeding not only increases the risk of a crash, but it will also lead to more severe injuries for cyclists in the event of an accident.
Proving Negligence in Frederick, Maryland Bicycle Accident Cases
Cyclists injured by drivers in Maryland will need to be able to show that the other driver was entirely responsible for the crash that caused his or her injuries. In Maryland, a driver will be deemed negligent if he or she behaved in a way that a reasonably prudent motorist would not in the same position. If a negligent driver causes injuries to another individual to whom the driver owed a duty of caution, then that driver may be held liable for his or her actions and for the injuries which he or she caused.
Because Maryland uses contributory negligence rather than comparative negligence, courts will prevent a cyclist from recovering compensation if that cyclist were partially at fault for his or her injuries. Most states permit an injured individual to collect damages from a driver who is more at fault. Maryland is not one of those states. Still, many injured cyclists are able to recover damages following serious bike crashes.
Collecting Damages in Frederick, Maryland Bike Crashes
The damages available to an injured individual will vary depending on the type of harm and the severity of the individual’s injuries. Damages will cover costs resulting from an accident, such as medical bills, property damage, and lost earnings for individuals who missed work due to the collision. Lawsuits also allow for plaintiffs to collect damages for their pain and suffering, which are not designed to compensate for specific expenses. Courts will calculate pain and suffering as a multiple of the economic damages, in most cases. Non-economic damage is often for higher amounts than the economic damages.
If a driver injured you in Frederick, Maryland, contact an attorney right away to learn more about how to recover compensation. It is important to act promptly because you must file a personal injury lawsuit within three years of the accident. Your attorney will need time to gather evidence, negotiate with the insurer, and develop a strategy for your case.
Call Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP After a Bicycle Accident in Frederick
Call Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP at 301-668-2100 to speak to a dedicated Frederick, Maryland personal injury attorney today. Our lawyers understand how important your case is to you and your family.
