The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released its data regarding 2015 bicycle accidents. During 2015, 818 cyclists lost their lives, and 45,000 were injured in traffic-related accidents. The number of bicycle deaths increased 12.2 percent from 2014 to 2015. Michigan had the sixth highest bicycle accident fatality rate with 33 deaths that year.
If you are injured in a Michigan bicycle accident, you may be reluctant about filing an auto accident claim. However, your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages can reach into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, especially if you suffered permanent harm. You should not bear the financial burden of another party’s negligent, careless, or reckless behavior. Don’t allow the insurance adjuster for the other party convince you that you don’t have a claim or that your rights as a bicyclist are limited. You have the same rights to file an accident claim that a driver or passenger has who is injured in a traffic accident. Let our Michigan bicycle accident lawyers defend and protect your legal right to receive a fair and full settlement for your accident claim. Call The Clark Law Office at 517-347-6900 to schedule a free legal consultation
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Michigan
Bicyclists face dangers every time they get on their bikes to ride. From negligent drivers and road hazards to poor weather conditions, bicyclists are at an increased risk for injury from factors that are outside of their control. Some of the common causes of Michigan bicycle accidents include:
Uneven pavement, gravel, and broken pavement
Road debris
Speeding and reckless drivers
Drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs
Distracted drivers (i.e. texting while driving, using cell phones, grooming, etc.)
Dooring accidents (i.e. a motorist opening the door in the path of the bicyclist)
Being struck while crossing in a crosswalk
Because a bicyclist has no protection from the impact of a collision, the injuries sustained from a bicycle crash can be catastrophic and life-threatening. In many cases, the rider suffers permanent injuries that impair their ability to return to their normal lives. Some accident victims require ongoing medical and personal care because of debilitating injuries.
Common Injuries Sustained in Bicycle Accidents
Broken bones and fractures, especially elbows, knees, hips, arms, and legs
It is very important that you seek immediate medical attention after a bicycle accident. First, you must protect your health by seeking treatment. You could have suffered a more severe injury than you realize and by delaying treatment, you could make the condition worse. Furthermore, you need to protect your right to file a claim against the at-fault party who caused your crash. To do so, you need documentation of your injuries, and by waiting to see a doctor, you may give the party a defense to your claim.
Damages in a Michigan Bicycle Accident Claim
The damages in a bicycle accident claim vary depending on the facts of the case. However, in most cases, the victim can receive compensation for damages including:
Medical expenses, including but not limited to your current medical costs, past medical bills, ongoing medical treatment, and future personal care
Loss of income, including any past lost wages, future loss of income, and loss of earning capacity
Property damage for your bicycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident
Mental anguish, emotional stress, and physical pain
Permanent disabilities, scarring, and disfigurement
Other out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident including travel to and from doctor appointments, special medical equipment, and costs of hiring someone to perform household chores you are unable to perform because of your injuries
The amount you receive for your damages depends on several factors. Those factors include the injuries you sustained, the severity of those injuries, the amount of time for your recovery, whether you suffered any permanent injuries, and whether you had any blame for the accident. An experienced bicycle accident attorney understands how to use the evidence in your case to maximize the amount of compensation you can receive for your claim.
No-Fault Insurance Claims for Michigan Bicycle Accidents
Under Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws, a bicyclist is entitled to no-fault insurance benefits just like a driver who is injured in an auto accident. You may receive compensation for your medical bills and lost wages by filing a Michigan no-fault insurance claim. Even if you do not own a vehicle or have an insurance policy, you may still be entitled to receive no-fault benefits. However, time is limited to file an insurance claim. Our Michigan bicycle accident attorneys can help you file your no-fault insurance claim so you can receive the benefits you are entitled to receive for your losses and injuries.
Call a Michigan Bicycle Accident Lawyer for a Free Appointment
Call The Clark Law Office at 517-347-6900 to schedule a free legal consultation with a seasoned attorney. We have offices in Okemos and Lansing for your convenience. Your first visit is free, and you don’t pay until we win your case.
