Hagerstown Bicycle Accident Attorney
Bicycling is a popular activity in Hagerstown, Maryland, offering a scenic and environmentally friendly way to commute or enjoy the outdoors. Unfortunately, cyclists are vulnerable to severe injuries when accidents occur. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Washington County, the Hagerstown bicycle accident attorneys at Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP are here to guide you through the legal claims process and get the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Hagerstown
Bicycle accidents can happen in various ways, often due to negligence by motor vehicle drivers or unsafe road conditions. Common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise inattentive may fail to notice a cyclist in their path.
- Failure to Yield: Motorists who disregard traffic laws and fail to yield at intersections or bike lanes put cyclists at significant risk.
- Dooring Accidents: A driver or passenger opening a car door without checking for approaching cyclists can cause a devastating crash.
- Poor Road Maintenance: Potholes, uneven pavement, and negligent road design on Hagerstown streets can cause cyclists to lose control of their bikes.
- Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers often have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Bicycle Accidents
Cyclists have little protection in the event of a crash, making them particularly susceptible to serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), broken bones and fractures, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ damage. Lacerations and road rash are even more common and can range from painful to life-threatening depending upon their severity. These injuries can lead to significant medical expenses, lost income, and long-term physical and emotional challenges.
Maryland Bicycle Laws and Cyclist Rights
Maryland law provides protections for bicyclists, recognizing their right to share the road with motor vehicles. Bicycles are classified as a type of vehicle, and cyclists are required to follow traffic laws, including using turn signals, coming to a compete stop at all stop signs and red lights, and yielding the right-of-way according to the rules of the road.
Motor vehicle drivers for their part also have a duty to exercise care and respect cyclists’ safety. This includes providing a minimum of three feet of space when passing bicyclists and not returning to their lane until it is safe to do so. In Hagerstown, bicycle accidents often occur when drivers fail to uphold their responsibilities.
If you are injured in a bicycle accident, Maryland’s strict contributory negligence law could affect your ability to recover compensation. Under this rule, if you are found even slightly at fault for the accident, you can be barred from receiving damages. This makes it crucial to work with an experienced bicycle accident attorney who can gather evidence, establish liability, and advocate for your rights.
How Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP Can Help
At Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP, we understand the unique challenges faced by injured cyclists. Our Hagerstown personal injury attorneys are dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable and securing maximum compensation for your losses. We can assist with gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to conduct a thorough investigation and build a strong case. We’ll deal with the insurance companies on your behalf, negotiating with insurers to ensure you receive a fair settlement. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to court.
We are committed to fighting for compensation that covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your accident.
Why Choose Our Hagerstown Bicycle Accident Lawyers?
Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP has a proven record of success in personal injury cases throughout Maryland. Our client-focused approach ensures that you receive personalized attention and compassionate support every step of the way.
With deep roots in the Hagerstown community, we understand the local roads, traffic patterns, and challenges cyclists face. Whether your accident occurred on the Hagerstown Cultural Trail, downtown streets, or a rural road, we are here to help.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Hagerstown, don’t wait to seek legal help. Time is of the essence in preserving evidence and filing your claim. Contact Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys.
Call us at 800-827-2667 to get started. Let us help you focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your case.
