Las Vegas is a great city for biking. Traffic congestion often makes biking a much faster transportation alternative, while the climate is very conducive to spending time outdoors on a bike. However, those that bike as a means of transportation can be at a greater risk for injury in an accident. When a vehicle and bicycle meet, the bicyclist is at an obvious disadvantage. Serious injury and even death can occur when a bicycle and vehicle collide. Unfortunately, many drivers may be unaware of a cyclist on the road and accidentally hit them.
WHAT IF I AM HIT BY A VEHICLE WHILE ON MY BIKE?
Bicycle accidents are considered vehicular accidents. When a person is using the road, whether they are riding a bike or driving a car, they should conduct themselves with a reasonable duty of care to avoid placing themselves as well as others on the road in danger. Therefore, when a jury is determining awards in a bicycle accident case, the main question is negligence. If the driver of the vehicle was not paying attention and crossed into a bicycle lane, for example, the jury might reasonably conclude that the driver was at fault for hitting the cyclist. However, if a cyclist does not obey the rules of the road and is hit, the jury may not feel it is the driver's fault.
However, even in cases in which a bicyclist commits an error, the driver may still be held liable if he or she could have avoided the accident but did not due to inattention or error. First responders, such as medical staff, will aid the victim of the accident while police officers determine exactly what happened and decide who is at fault. Police will make this determination from physical evidence gathered at the scene as well as statements from those involved and any witnesses.
If you feel that the driver was at fault for hitting you on your bicycle, you should contact a personal injury lawyer like those at High Stakes Injury Law in Las Vegas as soon as you are able to do so. The attorneys at High Stakes Injury Law have extensive experience aiding the victims of accidents, such as those hit while riding their bicycles. These knowledgeable lawyers will gather and review all evidence and compare the facts of the case with the law. If the other party is at fault, the lawyers at High Stakes Injury Law will help you build your personal injury case as well as negotiate deals or represent you in court. The personal injury lawyers at High Stakes Injury Law will not only provide you with the sound legal advice you need but also aggressively and professionally represent you and your case. Call the legal team at High Stakes Injury Law today for a free initial consultation.