Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Columbia

Help You Seek Compensation

Cruising on the streets is an enjoyable pastime—and sometimes the primary mode of transportation—for bicycle riders across the country. The freedom of riding a bike offers exercise, convenience, and a cost-effective way to get around. However, a pleasant afternoon ride or morning commute can turn into a disaster in a split second due to careless drivers, hazardous road conditions, or other unexpected dangers. Bicycle accidents fall under the larger umbrella of personal injury law, and a bicycle accident attorney works with riders injured due to someone else’s negligence, helping them seek justice and financial recovery through the civil courts.

If you’re interested in talking with a bicycle accident lawyer, our law firm is here to help. Our accident South Carolina lawyers can review your situation, explain your legal options, and ensure you understand whether you have a case and what kind of financial compensation you may be able to pursue through the courts.

Request a free consultation with our attorneys today for help.

How Common Are Bicycle Accidents?

Bicycle accidents are extremely common in South Carolina, with more than 500 incidents reported on average each year in just this state. The vast majority of bicycle accidents also result in injuries, ranging from road rash to brain damage. A smaller portion of these accidents result in death. If a bicycle crash kills a bicycle rider, the family may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation.

Just because accidents with motor vehicles and bikes are common doesn’t mean that there aren’t steps you can take to hold the at-fault parties liable. Contact us to speak with one of our Columbia bicycle accident lawyers as soon as possible after your crash to find out your options and what you should do next.

What Are Some Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

While bicycle riders are usually cautious when they are out on the road and are aware of the dangers that other drivers can present, there’s no way to mitigate the risk of an accident completely. In many cases, the motor vehicle driver is at fault, but here are other scenarios that can cause a wreck. Below are a few of the common causes of bicycle accidents.

Distracted Drivers

Distracted drivers, driver negligence, and drivers who don’t obey traffic laws when it comes to bicycles are huge contributors to bicycle accidents. For example, a driver who doesn’t give enough space around a rider in a bike lane or a driver who doesn’t check their blind spot to ensure it is clear of any bikes before changing lanes could both result in serious injuries to the rider. The increase in cellphone use while driving has also had an impact on bike accidents, as more drivers may not be paying attention to their surroundings.

Collisions With Objects

It’s also possible for bike accidents to occur as a result of the rider colliding with a stationary object. While it’s important for bicyclists to keep an eye on what’s around them and maneuver around other objects, there are times when it may not be possible, or the rider sees the object too late. For example, bicyclists may crash into car doors opened suddenly by someone in a car.

Poor Road Conditions

Just like with motor vehicles, road conditions are extremely important when it comes to the safety of a bicycle rider. Poor road conditions due to weather or construction can increase the likelihood of bicycle crashes. Wet roads are slippery, which can cause issues for both motor vehicles and bicycles, and construction can mean bumpy roads with debris that can injure riders or make a crash more likely.

What Are Common Bicycle Accident Injuries?

An accident between a bicycle and a motor vehicle can be especially catastrophic for the rider. Because of the major differences between the size, weight, and velocity — and the fact that bicycle riders have very little protection against the impact — bicycle accident injuries are often serious. Some of the common bicycle accident injuries are discussed in more detail below.

Brain and Head Injuries

Even when a rider is wearing a helmet, bicycle accidents can result in traumatic brain injury. If a rider is thrown from the bicycle or their head takes most of the impact, it can cause serious brain damage.

Spine Injuries

It’s possible that when a rider is thrown from the bicycle during an impact, they could land on their spine. This can cause serious injury, including permanent paralysis. If you were the victim of a bicycle accident that caused spinal injuries, it’s important to talk to a bicycle accident attorney about what you may be able to do to seek compensation for injuries and medical bills.

Broken Bones

Broken bones are some of the most common injuries of a serious bicycle accident, mainly because bicycle riders have little to no protection against the impact. Even if they just hit a car door, the impact is strong enough to break a leg or arm.

Who Is at Fault for a Bicycle Accident?

Determining fault in a bicycle accident is important and often a first step to finding out if you may be able to file a claim. In motor vehicle accidents, the auto insurance provider makes the final determination of who was at fault. While many accidents are the result of a negligent driver and, therefore, the fault of motor vehicle drivers, bicycle riders can be named at fault in some cases. For example, bicycle riders must still obey the rules of the road, and if not following those rules causes an accident, they could be at fault.

If you have concerns about who was named at fault for your accident and what that might mean for your case, talk to a firm that has experienced bicycle accident lawyers in Columbia.

How Working With Skilled Bicycle Accident Lawyers Can Help

When you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, choosing the right legal team can make a significant impact on your case. At Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC, we are committed to protecting the rights of injured cyclists and guiding them through the legal process with confidence. Our team understands the complexities of personal injury claims and works diligently to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Here’s how we assist bicycle accident victims:

• Thorough Case Evaluation – We take the time to review every detail of your accident, including police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to build a strong claim on your behalf.
• Investigation and Evidence Collection – We gather key evidence, such as traffic camera footage, accident scene photos, and expert testimony, to establish liability and strengthen your case.
• Negotiation with Insurance Companies – Insurance providers often attempt to undervalue claims or shift blame onto the cyclist. We push back against unfair tactics and advocate for fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Legal Representation in Court – If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial and present a compelling argument to secure the compensation you need.
• Personalized Legal Guidance – We keep you informed throughout every step of your case, answering questions, explaining legal options, and ensuring you understand your rights.

Hiring Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC means having a dedicated legal team by your side, working tirelessly to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, contact us today to discuss your legal options and take the next step toward justice.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, our firm is here to help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve. As a Columbia bicycle accident lawyer, we understand the challenges bicycle accident victims face, from mounting medical bills to lost wages and ongoing recovery. Our team works diligently to investigate the details of your case, gather crucial evidence, and build a strong personal injury claim that reflects the full extent of your damages.

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, but we stand up for injured cyclists, ensuring they receive fair treatment. Whether your accident resulted from a negligent driver, hazardous road conditions, or another factor, we take action to hold the responsible party accountable.

If you were injured in a bike accident through the fault of another party, you may be able to file a claim against them. Our law firm has bicycle accident lawyers in Columbia ready to talk to you about your case and how our services can help.

Call 18038882200 to find out more or to schedule a free consultation.