Bicycling is a popular way to commute, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors in Cincinnati. Unfortunately, accidents involving bicycles can happen in an instant and often lead to serious injuries. When you or a loved one has been hurt in a bicycle accident, having an experienced Cincinnati bicycle accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference in protecting your rights and pursuing fair compensation.
At The Attkisson Law Firm, we focus on helping injured cyclists navigate the legal process with confidence. Everyone should feel safe riding their bikes through Cincinnati whether they’re doing it for fun or just to get around.
Ohio Bicycle Laws and Cyclist Rights
Ohio law treats bicycles as vehicles, meaning cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Cyclists must follow traffic signals, ride in the correct lane, and use proper lighting when riding at night. At the same time, motorists are required to share the road and exercise caution when passing or turning near cyclists.
Knowing your rights can help in the aftermath of an accident. Ohio law allows cyclists who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
If a crash involves a rental bike or a shared electric bike, additional considerations may apply. A personal injury attorney can explain all legal options available.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which involve factors outside the rider’s control. Some common causes include:
- Motorist negligence, such as failing to yield, running red lights, or distracted driving
- Poor road conditions, including potholes, debris, or uneven pavement
- Collisions with parked vehicles or opening car doors
- Unsafe behavior from cyclists, such as riding against traffic or without proper safety gear
- Defective equipment, including brakes, tires, or frames
Identifying the cause of an accident is crucial to building a strong legal case and holding the responsible parties accountable. An attorney can help you collect evidence and prove the conditions that caused your accident were due to someone else’s negligence.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Crashes
Bicycle accidents can result in injuries ranging from minor scrapes to life-altering trauma. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Road rash and lacerations
- Internal injuries requiring immediate medical attention
Even accidents that seem minor initially can lead to long-term complications. Consulting a physician and documenting all injuries is critical for both your health and any potential legal claim.
Who Can Be Liable for a Bicycle Accident?
Liability in bicycle accidents can extend beyond the driver of a vehicle. Potential parties who may be responsible include:
- Motorists who acted negligently or recklessly
- Local government entities responsible for maintaining safe road conditions
- Bicycle manufacturers if a defect contributed to the crash
- Rental companies if equipment failure or lack of safety instructions played a role
Determining liability requires careful investigation. Your attorney can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to establish who is legally responsible for your injuries.
How a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Working with a skilled bicycle accident attorney can significantly improve the outcome of your case. An attorney can:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly to determine fault
- Handle communications with insurance companies to prevent unfair settlements
- Gather medical records, witness statements, and other evidence to support your claim
- Advise on the types of compensation available and the best strategy to pursue them
- Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
By working with The Attkisson Law Firm, you can focus on healing while our experienced legal team handles all the details of your case.
Do You Need a Bicycle Accident Attorney?
If a bicycle accident resulted in significant injuries or fatalities, property damage, or disputes over liability, having an attorney is highly recommended. Even cases that seem straightforward can involve complex legal and insurance issues. A dedicated Cincinnati bicycle accident lawyer can guide you through the process while protecting your rights while seeking compensation for your injuries.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident In Cincinnati
Knowing what steps to take immediately after an accident can make a big difference in your case.
Step 1: Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
The first priority is your safety. Move to a safe location if possible and call 911 for medical assistance. Even if injuries appear minor, it is important to get checked by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Step 2: Document the Accident Scene
Take photos of the accident location, including road conditions, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and, if possible, obtain the driver’s insurance details.
Step 3: File a Police Report
A police report can serve as an official record of the accident and may be crucial when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. Provide accurate and detailed information but avoid admitting fault.
Step 4: Preserve Evidence
Keep all medical records, repair bills, and any correspondence with insurance companies. Maintaining a detailed record will support your claim and help your attorney assess the full extent of damages.
Step 5: Contact a Cincinnati Bicycle Accident Lawyer
An attorney can review your case, explain your legal options, and represent you during negotiations with insurance companies. Timely action is critical, as Ohio law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim and two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim.
The bicycle accident attorneys at The Attkisson Law Firm are here to help you gather evidence, negotiate on your behalf, and go to court if needed to secure fair compensation.
Types of Compensation Available in Cincinnati
Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to a range of compensation depending on the circumstances of their case. Common types of recoverable damages include:
- Medical expenses, both current and future treatment costs
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage, such as repairs or replacement of your bicycle
- Emotional distress resulting from the accident
In certain cases involving gross negligence or reckless conduct, punitive damages may also be awarded to deter similar behavior in the future. Your attorney will be able to give you an estimate as to the amount of compensation you may be able to receive but there are no guarantees until your case is officially settled.
Why Choose The Attkisson Law Firm for Your Cincinnati Bicycle Accident Case
The Attkisson Law Firm has extensive experience representing injured cyclists in Cincinnati. Our Cincinnati attorneys understand the unique challenges that come with bicycle accident cases, from negotiating with insurance companies to investigating liability thoroughly. Our team is committed to providing personalized attention, keeping you informed throughout the process, while fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Cycling injuries can be life-changing, and having a dedicated legal team can make the difference between a fair settlement and an uphill battle.
Contact us today at (937) 400-0000 to schedule your free, confidential consultation. Our Cincinnati bicycle accident lawyers are ready to help you protect your rights and pursue the compensation you need to recover.