Sunset Hills Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Whether you bike for pleasure or as your primary mode of transportation, sharing the road with motor vehicles comes with risks. Many drivers do not take necessary precautions when traveling near bicyclists, resulting in devastating accidents.

If you were hurt in a cycling wreck caused by a negligent party, you may be facing severe injuries, health care costs, and lost wages due to missed work hours. Consider contacting a Sunset Hills bicycle accident lawyer to learn more about your rights as a cyclist. A skilled personal injury attorney from our law firm could help you obtain financial compensation.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, two of the most common types of bicycle accidents are falls and collisions with motor vehicles. Some falls may occur due to rider inexperience. However, they can also occur due to poorly maintained roadways, potholes, or other obstacles that impede the cyclist’s path.

Injuries from bicycle collisions with motorists have the highest potential of resulting in severe injuries for the rider. Common driver errors that result in wrecks include:

• Speeding
• Tailgating
• Distracted driving
• Ignoring traffic signs and signals
• Failure to yield
• Fatigued driving
• Drunk driving

A seasoned bike accident attorney in Sunset Hills could help an injured cyclist determine the cause of their crash.

Understanding State Bicycle Laws

Cyclists in Missouri have many rights under state law. Missouri Revised Statute § 300.411 states that cyclists should be provided sufficient space on the road, even when a motorist wants to pass.

Additionally, cyclists have the right to use a full lane to travel under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 307.191, though they can ride on the shoulder if they wish. Cyclists are also entitled to bike lanes free from parked cars or other obstacles.

Mo. Rev. Stat. § 300.330 provides that motor vehicles may only be in a bike lane to cross lawfully, and the motorist must yield to cyclists while doing so. A knowledgeable injury lawyer in Sunset Hills could further explain the laws applicable in a particular bicycle accident case.

Seeking Financial Compensation After a Cycling Accident in Sunset Hills

Due to the size and speed of motor vehicles, cyclists who are struck by cars are often subject to severe and life-threatening injuries. If the accident occurs due to the negligence or recklessness of the motorist, the injured cyclist could fight for compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including emergency services, hospitalizations, and rehabilitation
• Future expenses related to recovery
• Lost wages
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life and activities

A hardworking Sunset Hills attorney could help an injured party build a strong case to obtain the maximum about of compensation after the bike wreck.

Deadlines for Filing Lawsuits

After a bicycle accident, it is important to discuss legal options with a legal professional immediately. Under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.0120, the deadline to file a personal injury claim is five years after the accident. Missing that deadline could prevent an individual from collecting compensation.

Call A Sunset Hills Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

If you were hurt by a reckless party while cycling, consider consulting with a Sunset Hills bicycle accident lawyer. Many assume that the cyclist is at fault in a bicycle accident, but an attorney may be able to help you understand your legal rights.

A skilled legal professional from our firm could help you negotiate insurance claims or file a lawsuit if necessary. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.