Questions About Motorcycle, Bicycle Or Pedestrian Accidents?
When serious accidents cause severe injuries, you will have many questions, and it’s understandable that you want answers. At Shumate, Flaherty, Eubanks & Baechtold, we have helped people like you after bicycle, motorcycle and pedestrian accidents, and we understand that the situation is serious. We want to provide answers to your questions, so please take a look at the frequently asked questions below and then call us if you would like to discuss your specific case. Our experienced, caring attorneys are here to listen and help you move forward. Call us at 859-353-0878 today for a free consultation.
What rights do bicyclists have in an accident?
In Kentucky, cyclists have the same rights on the road as drivers of motor vehicles. When a driver causes an accident with a bike, the driver may be held liable for the resulting injuries.
Did the driver fail to see you? Did they cut you off or hit your bike? Did they break the rules of the road? You may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against them and seek compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses caused by the accident.
What types of injuries do bicyclists suffer?
Bicycle accidents can leave injury victims with severe injuries such as broken or crushed bones, amputations, spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries. Lacerations, and scarring and disfigurement, are also a possibility. In the worst cases, the cyclist may die from their accident injuries. You will need considerable damages to cover the cost of these types of injuries or a wrongful death.
Why are motorcycle accidents so dangerous?
There are a number of reasons for the severity of motorcycle accidents. The biggest factor is, of course, that motorcycles offer no protection for the rider in an accident with another vehicle. Another reason is that these accidents often occur at a high speed, which can make the impact of the collision worse. In addition, car and truck drivers too often fail to see the motorcycle or respect the rights of the rider. This can lead to running the motorcyclist off the road or forcing them into another lane of traffic. Drivers who rear end a motorcycle can also cause very serious injuries to the rider.
What are the most common motorcycle accident injuries?
Unfortunately, motorcyclists tend to suffer catastrophic or fatal injuries in accidents with cars and trucks. The most common injuries are leg injuries, broken or crushed bones, amputations, road rash, scarring, back and spinal cord injuries, and closed head injuries/traumatic brain injuries. These types of injuries may leave the person with permanent disability or result in wrongful death. It is a good idea to speak with a lawyer about your options for recovering damages for the injuries.
Do you need a lawyer for a pedestrian accident?
Yes. If you were hit by a car or another vehicle, your personal injury case may seem straightforward at first. You can be sure, however, that the driver’s insurance company is working to undervalue or deny your claim. Do not accept a settlement offer without discussing it with an attorney first. It is unlikely that the insurance company will offer sufficient compensation, and your expenses and other losses may be considerable. To maximize your recovery, it is best to consult an experienced attorney.
What types of injuries are likely in pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrians have no protection in an accident with a motor vehicle, leaving them completely vulnerable to injuries. They may suffer a wide range of injuries, including:
- Head injuries/traumatic brain injuries
- Neck, back and spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Crush injuries if pinned under or against an object
- Serious lacerations
- Scarring
- Internal organ damage
Pedestrian accident victims who suffer catastrophic injuries may never completely return to their normal life; they will need compensation to provide for their future. For people who lose a loved one to wrongful death, their family will never be the same. They may seek compensation in a wrongful death suit.
Ask Us About Your Accident Case Today
If you have been injured in a motorcycle, bicycle or pedestrian accident, email the experienced attorneys at Shumate, Flaherty, Eubanks & Baechtold for a complimentary consultation or call 859-353-0878 today. From our Richmond office, we serve injury victims throughout Kentucky.