What Causes Bicycle Accidents in Las Vegas?

Bicycles are a healthy, money-saving, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation that is enjoyed by many. The drawback is that this popular activity is not without risk. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2018 alone, 857 bicyclists were killed in traffic accidents. Thousands more suffered injuries, some of which will last a lifetime. Were these accidents unavoidable, or were they the result of driver negligence? What about your own accident? To find out, schedule a case evaluation with a well-versed Las Vegas personal injury lawyer from Gina Corena & Associates.

Causes of Car and Bike Accidents

Most car and bike accidents happen because of driver error or the position of the bicyclists in relation to the vehicle. Sometimes both of these factors cause the accident. Ultimately, driver negligence is to blame in many accidents, whether they are caused by the location of the bike or the actions of the driver.

Positional accidents include:

• When a bicyclist hits an open car door because the driver failed to look before opening it
• Side-swiping when drivers do not give bicyclists enough room while passing
• Rear-ending the bicyclists by following too closely
• Drivers who cross in front of the bike that has entered the intersection when turning right or left
• Bicyclists getting hooked by a vehicle turning right

Driver error-related accidents are typically caused by:

• Speeding which gives drivers less time to react when they see a bicyclist and increases the risk of severe injury to the bicyclist
• Weather issues like rain or glare can make bicyclists hard to see
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failure to obey traffic control devices and signs

Motorists and bicyclists alike need to use the road with caution and pay attention to the road and those around them. Motorists should always yield the right of way and do all the can to avoid an accident with a bike, and bicyclists should ride cautiously and wear reflective clothing whenever possible.

With the start of the school year, it becomes essential for both drivers and pedestrians to be particularly cautious. These back-to-school pedestrian safety tips can provide some guidance. Additionally, measures to reduce Vegas pedestrian accidents are crucial, considering the bustling nature of the city. Not to forget, cyclists are also part of this equation. For them, understanding the intricacies of bike accident claims can be beneficial.

A Las Vegas bike accident attorney is available to assess your case, no matter what you believe caused your accident. By meeting with one, you may find out that the driver’s insurance company owes you money. If so, your attorney will demand the money you deserve. If the insurance company is unwilling to negotiate a fair settlement in your claim, your attorney can seek justice in civil court on your behalf.

Injuries Caused by Car and Bike Accidents

Bicyclists are especially vulnerable to injuries when accidents occur. They do not have the protection of a vehicle and its safety devices such as seatbelts and airbags that motorists have. Even minor accidents and those that happen when the bicyclist is wearing a helmet and other safety gear can cause severe injuries for someone on a bike. Common injuries caused by bicycle and car accidents include:

• Head trauma
• Neurological damage
• Spinal cord injury
• Disc bulge or ruptured disc
• Bone fractures
• Facial injuries
• Emotional trauma
• Contusions
• Abrasions
• Lacerations
• Strains

After a car and bicycle accident, the bicyclist should be examined by a physician, even if they do not think they have any injuries. Sometimes these injuries take a few days or even weeks to begin to show signs and symptoms. Documenting any injuries you have and seeking medical care will increase your chance of getting compensation for your bicycle accident injuries.

Many of these injuries will cause pain and suffering and the potential for tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills. You might need surgery or months of physical therapy to return to your pre-accident state if you are able to return at all. Your injuries could lead to scarring or disfigurement, and you might miss time from work. An experienced Las Vegas personal injury attorney can assist in your pursuit of getting paid for all of these damages and more.

Call a Las Vegas Bicycle Accident Attorney Today for Your Case Consultation

Regardless of what caused your accident, bicycle crash injuries can be life-altering. If you’ve been injured in a bike accident, a skilled attorney can help. Your injuries, if caused by the negligence of another person or party, demand fair financial compensation. The driver and their insurance company should be held accountable for the driver’s negligence. Getting an attorney on your side is the easiest way to accomplish this.

Don’t wait any longer to pursue compensation for your bike accident. Schedule your consultation today with a Las Vegas bike accident lawyer you can trust. Contact Gina Corena & Associates at 702-680-1111 or complete our online contact form.