While you may hear about catastrophic car and truck accidents on the evening news, reports of bicycle accidents are not as common. Even though they are not deemed as “newsworthy,” these accidents can be just as devastating as others, leading to tens of thousands of injuries and fatalities each year.
According to statistics, bicycle accident fatalities are most likely between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. throughout the year. They are typically in urban areas, and more males are involved in these incidents than females.
Unfortunately, when a bicycle accident occurs, the likelihood of serious injuries and fatalities is high. This is because a rider does not have the protection of drivers and others on the road. Even with a helmet, the likelihood of serious, life-changing injuries and fatalities is high.
If you are involved in a Tacoma bicycle accident, we are here to help. With years of experience representing accident victims in and around Tacoma, our experienced attorneys will advocate to help you achieve a positive outcome in your case.
Understanding Bicycle Accidents in Tacoma
Tacoma, Washington, provides amenities for bicyclists, regardless of whether a rider is commuting to work or just taking a leisurely ride. The city has committed to expanding bike lanes and trails, offering even more opportunities for those who prefer to travel on two wheels.
While the effort made by the city is commendable, it is also increasing the risk of serious bicycle accidents. Navigating through Tacoma’s bustling streets, cyclists are often exposed to risks unique to urban settings, where the interplay of heavy traffic, pedestrians, and diverse road conditions pose constant challenges.
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Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Tacoma
Understanding the causes of bicycle accidents in Tacoma is crucial for prevention and legal redress. The most common causes include:
- Driver Negligence: Despite clear road rules, accidents often occur due to drivers overlooking cyclists, especially in blind spots, or misjudging their speed and distance.
- Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and poorly maintained bike lanes can lead to loss of control and subsequent accidents.
- Dooring Accidents: A frequent urban hazard, dooring happens when a parked car’s door opens suddenly in the path of an oncoming cyclist.
- Intersection Conflicts: Intersections are hotspots for accidents, often resulting from a lack of clear signals or misunderstandings about right-of-way.
Challenges Faced by Bicyclists in Urban Tacoma
Urban bicycling brings challenges that require both skill and heightened awareness. In Tacoma, cyclists face several unique urban challenges:
- Navigating Traffic: Sharing roads with fast-moving vehicles can be daunting, as cyclists must be vigilant about changing traffic patterns and vehicle behaviors.
- Visibility Issues: Being less visible than cars, cyclists often go unnoticed, especially during low light conditions or in heavily trafficked areas.
- Weather Conditions: Tacoma’s weather can change rapidly, presenting additional hazards like slick roads and reduced visibility.
- Infrastructure Limitations: While Tacoma is improving cycling infrastructure, there are still gaps in connectivity, leading cyclists to navigate mixed-traffic routes.
Mitigating Risks and Embracing Safe Cycling
To mitigate these risks, cyclists in Tacoma need to be well-versed in road safety practices. Wearing appropriate safety gear, using lights and reflectors, and staying alert are key. Additionally, understanding and asserting one’s rights on the road can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Legal Rights of Bicycle Accident Victims in Washington State
In Washington State, bicyclists are afforded rights on the road and ensure fair treatment under the law. A key aspect of these rights is the recognition of bicycles as vehicles, which means bicyclists are subject to the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. This includes the right to use the road, the obligation to follow traffic signals and signs, and the right to legal protection in the event of an accident.
Right to Safe Passage
Washington law mandates that drivers must maintain a safe distance when passing bicycles. This is critical in preventing sideswipe accidents and ensuring cyclists’ safety on shared roads.
Equal Treatment in Traffic Laws
Bicyclists in Washington are treated equally under traffic laws. In the event of an accident, the same legal standards applied to motor vehicles are applied to bicycles. It ensures that cyclists receive fair consideration in legal proceedings, whether seeking damages or defending their actions on the road.
Pursuing Personal Injury Claims
Bicycle accident victims can pursue personal injury claims if injured due to someone else’s negligence. These claims can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Documentation, including police reports and medical records, is crucial in building a strong case.
Wrongful Death and Family Claims
In tragic circumstances where a bicycle accident results in death, the victim’s family has the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. This type of claim can help cover funeral expenses, loss of income, and the family’s emotional distress.
Product Liability in Bicycle Accidents
If the accident was caused due to a defect in the bicycle or its components, victims could pursue a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
Knowing Your Rights Is Key
Understanding these rights is crucial for bicycle accident victims in Tacoma. It empowers them to seek justice and compensation for their injuries and losses. Whether it’s a personal injury, wrongful death, or product liability claim, knowing these legal avenues can provide a pathway to recovery and restitution.
How Bernard Law Group Can Help Bicycle Accident Victims
Bernard Law Group has helped countless victims recover compensation. Some of the ways we help include:
Comprehensive Legal Assistance for Bicycle Accident Cases
At Bernard Law Group, our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support to victims of bicycle accidents in Tacoma and beyond. We understand the complexities of bicycle accident cases and offer a range of services to ensure that our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
In-Depth Investigation and Evidence Gathering
The foundation of a strong legal case lies in a thorough investigation. Our experienced attorneys meticulously gather and analyze evidence, which includes police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident scene photos. This evidence is crucial in building a compelling case and establishing the liability of the responsible parties.
Expertise in Dealing with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting for accident victims. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies on behalf of our clients. We strive to ensure that our clients are not pressured into accepting lowball settlements and work tirelessly to secure fair compensation that reflects the true extent of their losses and injuries.
Pursuing Litigation for Just Outcomes
While we aim to settle cases amicably, we are fully prepared to take legal action when necessary. Our legal team has a strong track record of successfully litigating bicycle accident cases. We are committed to representing our client’s interests in court, presenting a robust case backed by solid evidence and expert testimonies.
Personalized Legal Guidance and Support
At Bernard Law Group, we understand that each case is unique. We provide personalized legal guidance tailored to each client’s specific circumstances and needs. Our approach is not just about legal representation; it’s about offering support and understanding to our clients during a challenging time in their lives.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle accident, take the following steps to protect yourself and your rights to compensation:
Prioritize Your Safety and Health
Immediately after a bicycle accident, your primary focus should be safety and well-being. If you’re injured, try to move to a safe area away from traffic. Assess yourself for injuries and seek medical attention immediately, even if the injuries seem minor. Shock and adrenaline can often mask pain and injuries.
Contact Emergency Services
If the accident is serious, call 911 immediately. Reporting the accident to the police is crucial, as a police report provides an official record of the incident, which is valuable for any future legal or insurance proceedings.
Exchange Information and Gather Evidence
Exchange contact and insurance information with any other parties involved in the accident. If there are witnesses, try to get their contact information as well. Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, including the positions of the bicycle and vehicle, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area.
Document Everything
Keep a record of everything related to the accident. This includes the police report number, medical reports, receipts for any expenses incurred (like medical bills or bicycle repairs), and a personal account of what happened.
Consult with a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Before engaging with insurance companies, consider consulting with a bicycle accident lawyer. They can guide you on how to proceed and help protect your rights and interests.
Need Justice? Reach Out Today for Legal Counsel
Working with a Tacoma Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Choosing a local Tacoma lawyer like those at Bernard Law Group offers distinct advantages. Familiarity with local laws and court systems is crucial in bicycle accident cases.
Our attorneys understand Tacoma’s legal landscape, which includes specific traffic regulations and local court procedures. This local expertise ensures that your case is handled with a strategy tailored to the nuances of the Tacoma judicial system.
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident in Tacoma, Bernard Law Group is here to help. We invite you to reach out for a consultation where we can discuss your case and guide you through your legal options.
Our commitment goes beyond legal representation; we are dedicated to upholding the rights of bicyclists in Tacoma and ensuring your voice is heard. Trust us to advocate for the justice and compensation you deserve. Let us navigate the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery and well-being.
