Cycling is an enjoyable, eco-friendly, and healthy way to get around. Unfortunately, as our Raleigh, NC bicycle accident lawyer can confirm, bicycle accidents happen far too often, leaving riders with serious injuries and costly medical bills. When these accidents occur, it’s important to understand what caused them and who may be held legally responsible. Knowing your rights can make a big difference if you ever need to file a claim after a bicycle accident.
Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents
While every crash is unique, certain causes appear again and again in bicycle accident cases:
1. Driver Negligence
Motorists are frequently at fault when bicycle accidents occur. Common examples of driver negligence include:
- Distracted driving – texting, using GPS, or adjusting music instead of watching the road.
- Failure to yield – ignoring stop signs, red lights, or failing to give the right of way to cyclists.
- Unsafe lane changes or turns – cutting off a cyclist while merging or turning without signaling.
- Speeding – reducing a driver’s ability to stop in time to avoid hitting a cyclist.
2. Dooring Accidents
One of the most common dangers cyclists face in cities is “dooring.” This happens when a driver or passenger opens a car door directly in the path of an oncoming bicycle, giving the cyclist no time to react.
3. Poor Road Conditions
Potholes, uneven pavement, debris, or lack of proper bike lane maintenance can cause serious crashes. In these cases, liability may fall on the city, county, or entity responsible for road upkeep.
4. Defective Equipment
Sometimes accidents happen not because of driver error, but because of a faulty bicycle part or safety gear. Defective brakes, tires, or helmets may cause or worsen an accident. Manufacturers, retailers, or distributors can be held responsible under product liability law.
5. Reckless Cyclists Or Pedestrians
Not every bicycle accident is caused by a motorist. Cyclists who ignore traffic laws, ride against traffic, or pedestrians who dart into bike lanes can also contribute to collisions.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Liability in bicycle accidents depends on the specific circumstances of the crash. Potentially responsible parties include:
- Motor Vehicle Drivers: If a driver’s negligence caused the accident, they can be held financially liable for the cyclist’s injuries and damages.
- Government Entities: If poor road design or dangerous conditions contributed to the accident, a city or municipality may be held accountable. These cases can be more complex due to strict filing deadlines for claims against government agencies.
- Manufacturers or Retailers: When defective equipment or faulty bicycle parts play a role, the company that designed, produced, or sold the product may be liable.
- Other Cyclists or Pedestrians: If another cyclist or pedestrian caused the accident by acting recklessly, they too can be held responsible.
Protecting Your Rights After A Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle accident, it’s critical to seek medical attention, document the scene, gather witness information, and report the crash. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, so having our experienced bicycle accident lawyer on your side can help you fight for fair compensation.
Bicycle accidents can be devastating, but understanding their common causes and who may be held liable can help you protect yourself and your rights. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, our skilled lawyer can investigate the circumstances, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve. At Burton Law Firm, we are here to help you.