Crown Point Bicycle Accident Attorney

Riding a bicycle is an enjoyable pastime and method of transportation for many. Unfortunately, sharing the road with cars and trucks introduces significant risks. Because cyclists have little protection, a collision with a much larger vehicle can lead to devastating injuries. These accidents often leave victims with overwhelming medical bills and lost income, all while trying to recover physically and emotionally.

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you are not alone. Understanding your rights and the common causes of these incidents is the first step toward recovery. The Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell is here to help you navigate the legal process. We diligently pursue accountability from negligent parties, enabling you to wholeheartedly focus on your recovery.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Most bicycle accidents are preventable and often stem from human error or negligence. While every situation is unique, many crashes share common causes. Motorists who fail to exercise reasonable care on the road can put cyclists in serious danger.

Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Failure to Yield: Drivers frequently neglect to grant cyclists the right-of-way at intersections, stop signs or when turning.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone or adjusting the radio diverts a driver’s attention from the road, making it easy to miss a nearby cyclist.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs greatly impairs both judgment and reaction time, leading to tragic consequences.
• Unsafe Passing: Motorists who do not leave enough space when passing a cyclist can easily cause a collision.
• “Dooring”: A driver or passenger opening a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist is a common and dangerous type of accident.

Other Contributing Factors

Beyond driver error, other elements can contribute to a bicycle accident. It is important to consider all potential factors when determining liability.

These can include:

• Vehicle Defects: A malfunctioning car part like faulty brakes can prevent a driver from stopping in time. Similarly, a defect in the bicycle itself could cause the rider to lose control.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog or ice can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the risk of an accident for both drivers and cyclists.
• Limited Visibility: Accidents are more likely to occur at night or in low-light conditions, especially if cyclists are not equipped with proper lights and reflective gear.
• Inadequate Infrastructure: Badly maintained roads, potholes, a lack of specified bike lanes and poorly designed intersections can create hazardous conditions for cyclists.

Your Rights and Compensation Under Indiana Law

Under Indiana law, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as operators of other vehicles. This means motorists must treat cyclists with the same duty of care. When a driver’s negligence causes an injury, the cyclist has the right to seek compensation for their losses:

1. Economic Losses: These include the direct financial costs resulting from the accident, like medical expenses, lost income and damage to your bicycle.
2. Non-Economic Losses: These damages compensate for the non-financial impact of the accident, including pain and suffering, emotional distress and reduced quality of life.

Get the Help You Deserve

Cyclist safety is a shared responsibility, but when accidents happen, injured victims need a strong advocate. If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Northwest Indiana, do not wait to seek legal help. Contact the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell today for a consultation to learn how we can protect your future.