Spearfish Bicycle Accident Attorneys
Representing Bike Accident Victims in Spearfish, SD
There are a lot of beautiful places to ride a bicycle in or close to Spearfish, including Spearfish Cycle Path, Ridgeline Trail Loop, Fight Club Trail, and New Blue Trail. Unfortunately, bike accidents cause severe injuries that can dramatically impact your quality of life.
If you were seriously injured in a bike accident, contact a Spearfish personal injury lawyer at Steven Titus & Associates, P.C. right away. We’ll seek compensation from all negligent parties to help you recover the cost of your medical bills and other expenses.
Call (307) 257-7800 for a free consultation today!
Your Rights as a Cyclists in Spearfish, SD
In Spearfish, South Dakota, cyclists have the right to use the roads without fear of being of endangered by unsafe drivers. There are laws in place to ensure your safety on the road. Cyclists in Spearfish also have the right to use the full lane when necessary, such as when avoiding obstacles or preparing for a turn. Drivers sometimes commit illegal actions and unsafe maneuvers that endanger cyclists.
One of the most important bike safety laws is the 3-foot rule which mandates that drivers must maintain at least three feet of distance when passing a cyclist. Violating this law can result in fines and penalties for drivers.
What Causes Bicycle Accidents in Spearfish, SD?
The biggest threat to bicycle safety is careless drivers who fail to look out for cyclists. Accidents resulting from distracted or impaired driving lead to severe injuries and fatalities for cyclists. Distracted driving involves any activity that diverts attention from the road, such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. These distractions can significantly delay reaction times, making it difficult for drivers to notice cyclists in time to avoid a collision.
Impaired driving due to alcohol or drug use hampers a driver’s ability to make quick decisions and maintain control of the vehicle. Driving under the influence is illegal, and it poses a significant threat to the safety of cyclists.
Drivers must be vigilant in observing traffic signals and rules to minimize the risks of accidents and create a safer road environment for everyone. Traffic violations are a common cause of bicycle accidents in Spearfish, and they significantly endanger cyclists. For example, speeding reduces the driver’s ability to react swiftly to unexpected obstacles, including cyclists.
Running red lights or stop signs results in collisions at intersections, where cyclists are particularly vulnerable. Unsafe lane changes and not checking blind spots leads to accidents, especially when drivers are not attentive to the presence of cyclists. These violations reflect a lack of regard for traffic laws designed to protect all road users.
Determining Liability for Bicycle Accidents
When it comes to traffic accidents, South Dakata is an at-fault state. That means negligent drivers can be held liable for the injuries they cause. Steven Titus & Associates, P.C. will investigate the accident by collecting witness statements, police reports, medical records, surveillance and dash cam video, and other important evidence.
When our investigation is complete, our law firm will file a claim or lawsuit against anyone whose negligent behavior contributed to your injuries. This may include drivers, other cyclists, and commercial entities such as delivery and trucking companies. Businesses that employ drivers are responsible for hiring safe drivers with good driving records. They’re also required to maintain their vehicles to ensure that they operate properly on the roadway.
Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycle accidents cause several types of serious injuries. This includes broken bones that might require surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Bicycle accident victims may suffer from traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injuries, or paralysis, which are all conditions that can drastically change their quality of life. Amputations, organ damage, and severe lacerations are additional consequences of bicycle crashes that frequently require long-term medical attention and they can also lead to chronic pain and permanent disability.
The impact of a bicycle accident extends beyond physical injuries, often taking a significant emotional and psychological toll on the victim. Survivors may experience a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Compensation Available for Bike Accident Injuries
When seeking compensation after a bicycle accident, it's essential to understand the distinction between economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages refer to the quantifiable financial losses incurred due to the accident. These include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and any future earnings lost due to long-term disabilities.
Non-economic damages cover the more intangible aspects of the victim's suffering. This category includes pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and any psychological trauma.
Were You Injured in a Bicycle Accident in Spearfish?
At Steven Titus & Associates, P.C., we believe that the person who hurt you should have to pay for it, and that’s why we seek justice for our clients. We will always treat you and your family with compassion and respect.
Steven Titus & Associates, P.C. is available to take your call 24/7. And we’ll keep you up-to-date on how your case is progressing throughout the legal process.
Call (307) 257-7800 to learn more today.
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