When negligent motor vehicle drivers encounter bicyclists on the road, the worst can happen. Whether failing to give cyclists safe clearance while passing, ignoring right-of-way rules for cyclists, or failing to notice cyclists altogether, negligent drivers are a threat to every cyclist on the
road. Our bicycle accident attorneys have represented countless bicycle accident victims to recover compensation and rebuild their lives in the aftermath of serious and deadly bike accidents. Through zealous representation, accident reconstruction, negotiation, and litigation, Lowe Scott Fisher can help you and your family enforce bicyclists’ rights to the safe use of roadways.
There are nearly 500,000 bicycle accidents in the United States every year.
As with motorcycle accidents, bicycle accident injuries can be more significant than other accident injuries, and the cause of those injuries is typically a careless, distracted, or drunk driver.
Although many communities have welcomed cyclists with the addition of designated bike lanes, sharrows, other bike-friendly amenities, and the passage of Ohio House Bill 154 (3-Foot passing law); cyclists still must navigate roadways along with motor vehicles. This can be extremely intimidating for a new or young rider and is no less dangerous for an experienced cyclist. Throw in deteriorating roads, debris, defective products, the occasional dog, or the sketchy rider in the group ride and a simple bike ride can be a precarious activity.
While most bicycling accidents leave the cyclists with some bruises and road rash, unfortunately, too often there are painful reminders of the vulnerability of riding your bicycle as some accidents result in catastrophic, life-threatening, and fatal harm.
The Ohio State Patrol publishes crash statistics each spring for the previous year. Here are the most recent statistics for bicycle-involved collisions:
- 2022: 1,229 (including7 fatalities)
- 2021: 1,095 (including 28 fatalities)
- 2020: 1,024 (including 16 fatalities)
- 2019: 1,229 (including 23 fatalities)
- 2018: 1,295 (including 22 fatalities)
As Cleveland Ohio bicycle accident attorneys, Lowe Scott Fisher will tirelessly work on your behalf to hold the negligent driver accountable.
The most common causes of bicycle vs. car accidents are:
- “Right Hook” – driver passes the cyclist and immediately turns right into the path of the cyclist
- “Left Cross” – driver traveling towards the cyclist and makes a left turn into the path of the cyclist
- Getting “Doored” – passing a parked car as the driver opens the door
- Passes immediately before red lights or stop signs and slamming on brakes
- Passing in curves or double yellows or with oncoming traffic
- Failing to stop
- Running a red light
- Failing to signal
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Improper backing
- Texting while driving
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving (responsible for 31% of all traffic fatalities)
- Driver fatigue
If you were injured as a result of a negligent driver, The Bicycle Accident Attorneys at Lowe Scott Fisher has the experience and expertise to investigate and diligently develop your case to maximize your potential monetary recovery. This includes interviewing witnesses and obtaining statements; compiling all medical records, medical billings, and lost wage verification; consulting with expert witnesses; and dealing with the insurance companies.
As Cleveland Bicycle Accident Attorneys, Lowe Scott Fisher can guide you throughout the process from opening the claim, to pre-lawsuit settlement discussions, and through trial and appeals if necessary. We have experience negotiating and litigating car accident claims with major insurance companies including, but not limited to: Allstate, Auto-Owners, Erie, Farmers, Geico, Grange, Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, Progressive, State Farm, Westfield, and others.
Our representation of accident victims is on a contingency basis, meaning you will pay NO ATTORNEY FEES unless we recover for you. Contact us today to discuss your case free of charge.