Experienced Albuquerque Bicycle Accident Attorneys
Albuquerque Bicycle Accident Attorney
When you need the best bicycle accident lawyers in Albuquerque
Biking in Albuquerque is a popular activity, but accidents happen and can be devastating for cyclists and their loved ones. These incidents can result in both injury and property damage.
Albuquerque typically sees approximately 188 bike accidents annually. From 2016 to 2020, the city accounted for 941 of New Mexico’s 1,767 bicycle accidents. [1]
Have you been involved in a bicycle accident in Albuquerque and need legal representation? Please reach out to us today for a free consultation and let us help you get the justice and compensation you are entitled to.
Types of Bicycle Accidents Common in Albuquerque
Bicycle accidents pose significant risks to cyclists’ safety and well-being, often resulting in injuries or fatalities due to the vulnerability of cyclists on the road. Here are some types of bicycle accidents:
- Hit-and-run accidents involve a situation where a vehicle strikes a cyclist, but the driver does not stop at the accident scene. These incidents can have severe consequences, causing significant injuries or even fatalities. The failure of the driver to stop can complicate the investigation process and the pursuit of legal actions by the injured cyclist.
- Left-turn crashes happen when a cyclist proceeding straight through an intersection is hit by a vehicle executing a left turn across their path. Such accidents often occur due to motorists failing to yield the right-of-way to cyclists or incorrectly estimating the speed and distance of the cyclist.
- Rear-end collisions refer to incidents where a cyclist is hit from behind by a vehicle traveling in the same direction. Such accidents typically happen when drivers fail to maintain a safe distance behind the cyclist, get distracted, or fail to notice the presence of cyclists on the road.
- Right-turn collisions occur when a cyclist, who is either proceeding straight or riding in a designated bike lane, is struck by a vehicle making a right turn across their path. These accidents often occur due to drivers neglecting to check their blind spots or yield to cyclists before executing the turn, resulting in collisions.
- Sideswipe accidents involve situations where a cyclist is hit by a vehicle traveling parallel to them, causing contact along the side of the bicycle. These accidents can occur when drivers attempt to pass cyclists without leaving sufficient space or fail to detect the presence of cyclists riding alongside them.
Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Albuquerque
Bicycle accidents can occur in various situations. Here are some common types of bicycle accidents:
Intersection Accidents
Intersection accidents can involve collisions between bicycles and vehicles as different road users navigate through complex traffic patterns and conflicting movements. Common scenarios include:
- Failure to yield at intersections can result in collisions when both motorists and cyclists attempt to proceed at the same time.
- Red-light running by cyclists and motorists at intersections can lead to collisions with cross traffic due to disregard for traffic signals.
- Multi-lane intersections pose challenges for cyclists due to their complexity and can result in confusion and accidents.
Bicycle Lane Accidents
Bicycle lane accidents involve collisions or conflicts between cyclists and vehicles within the designated bicycle lanes. Motorists may get into bicycle lanes while making turns, parking, or driving, creating potential dangers for cyclists using those designated lanes.
Dooring Accidents
- Dooring accidents can happen when a cyclist hits an open car door, often when a person in a parked vehicle exits without looking for cyclists approaching.
- Accidents frequently occur in urban areas with on-street parking or where cyclists share the road with parked vehicles.
Single-Bicycle Crashes
Single-bicycle crashes involve accidents where a cyclist loses control and falls without colliding with another vehicle or object. Common causes include:
- Mechanical failures, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, can lead to loss of control and crashes for cyclists.
Table of Contents
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Types of Bicycle Accidents Common in Albuquerque
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Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Albuquerque
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Injuries Sustained Due to Bicycle Accident in Albuquerque
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Compensatory Damages for Victims of Bicycle Accident in Albuquerque
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Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accident Cases in Albuquerque
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Advantages of Hiring Our Albuquerque Bicycle Accident Attorney
Injuries Sustained Due to Bicycle Accident in Albuquerque
Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying from minor to severe. The type and severity of injuries often depend on factors such as the nature of the accident, the speed involved, helmet use, and the overall health of the individuals involved.
During the period from 2016 to 2020, out of the city’s 941 bicycle accidents:
- 18 bicyclists sustained fatal injuries
- 58 cyclists suffered serious injuries necessitating ambulance transport to a hospital
- 399 cyclists sustained minor, visible injuries
- 340 cyclists reported pain or other symptoms without visible wounds
- 126 bicyclists emerged from their accidents, apparently unharmed [1]
This indicates that more than 86% of cyclists involved in collisions with vehicles in Albuquerque suffered injuries or fatalities.
Here are some common injuries sustained due to bicycle accidents:
- Back Injuries
- Dental Injuries
- Facial Fractures
- Fractures
- Head Injuries
- Knee Injuries
- Paralysis
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Sprains and Strains
If you have lost a loved one due to a bicycle accident in Albuquerque, contact our wrongful death lawyers for dedicated and compassionate representation.
Compensatory Damages for Victims of Bicycle Accident in Albuquerque
If you’re in a bicycle accident in Albuquerque, you might be able to get compensation for injuries and losses. This can help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
- Disfigurement or Scarring: Bicycle accident injuries can lead to disfigurement or scarring, causing lasting physical and psychological effects. Compensatory damages may be awarded to address emotional distress and aesthetic concerns related to visible scarring or disfigurement.
- In-Home Assistance: Severe injuries from bike accidents may require help at home for personal care, chores, and getting around. Compensation can help pay for caregivers or other assistance needed for recovery.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensatory damages for loss of consortium may be awarded in cases where bicycle accident injuries have a significant impact on the injured cyclist’s relationship with their spouse. These damages seek to compensate for the loss of companionship, support, and intimacy experienced by the injured cyclist’s loved ones.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Injuries from bicycle accidents can impact a cyclist’s ability to engage in activities they once enjoyed, leading to a decreased quality of life. Compensatory damages may be granted to address the physical and emotional challenges faced by the injured cyclist.
- Lost Income: Serious injuries from bicycle accidents can leave cyclists unable to return to work, resulting in lost wages. Compensation may cover past and future lost earnings such as wages, bonuses, and commissions.
- Medical Expenses: Victims of bicycle accidents may incur significant medical expenses for required treatment, such as emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor appointments, medications, rehabilitation, therapy, and other medical interventions. Compensatory damages aim to cover these costs and ensure access to necessary medical care for the injured cyclist.
- Mental Anguish: Bicycle accidents can result in mental anguish, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other psychological injuries. Compensation may be provided to address the emotional suffering and mental health effects experienced by the injured cyclist.
- Pain and Suffering: Bicycle accidents can lead to injuries that cause physical pain, discomfort, and suffering for the cyclist. Compensatory damages may be awarded for past and future pain and suffering, considering the severity and duration of the injuries and their effects on the cyclist’s daily life.
- Property Damage: When a cyclist is involved in a collision with a motor vehicle or other object, their bicycle and personal belongings may be damaged or lost. Compensation may be provided for the repair or replacement of the damaged property, including bicycles, cycling gear, and personal items.
- Future Earning Capacity: Bicycle accidents resulting in serious injuries can have long-term effects on a cyclist’s ability to work and earn a living, especially if they are unable to resume their previous job or pursue career advancement. Compensatory damages may cover the loss of future earning potential based on factors like age, education, skills, and income potential.
Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accident Cases in Albuquerque
The Statute of Limitations for bicycle accident cases in Albuquerque is the legal timeframe within which a victim must file a lawsuit seeking compensation for their injuries or damages.
In Albuquerque, the Statute of Limitations for personal injury cases, including bicycle accidents, is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means that the injured party has three years from the accident date to initiate legal proceedings. [2]
There may be exceptions or circumstances that can affect the Statute of Limitations in specific cases. For instance, if the accident involves a government entity, such as a city or county, there might be additional notice requirements or shorter time limits to file a claim.
Consult with our bike accident attorney for guidance regarding the Statute of Limitations to ensure that your rights are protected and you have the opportunity to seek the compensation you deserve.
Advantages of Hiring Our Albuquerque Bicycle Accident Attorney
Hiring Goldberg & Loren offers several advantages, including:
- Legal Expertise: Our experienced bicycle accident attorneys have in-depth knowledge of New Mexico’s personal injury laws and understand how they apply to bicycle accident cases. We have over three decades of experience providing justice to those who deserve it.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: We will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, collecting evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and medical records. Goldberg & Loren work to gather all necessary evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Determining Liability: Identifying who is at fault in a bicycle accident can be complex. Our bicycle accident attorney will analyze the circumstances, assess liability, and determine the responsible parties.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. We will handle all communication and negotiations with insurers on your behalf, working to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Goldberg & Loren have helped get over half a billion USD in client compensation.
- Litigation Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, an attorney will be prepared to take your case to court. They will provide strong legal representation and advocate for your rights throughout the litigation process.
- Peace of Mind: Our legal team will help you focus on recovering from your injuries, knowing that your legal matters are being handled. We will guide you through the entire legal process, reducing your stress and ensuring that your interests are protected.
You don’t deserve to suffer in silence.
Reach out to us today and let our Albuquerque personal injury lawyers be your powerful ally in seeking justice and getting the compensation you deserve.
Sources:
[1] Marquez, F. (2023, July 31). Albuquerque Bicycle Safety Overview: Infrastructure and Crash Stats – People Powered Movement. People Powered Movement. https://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/albuquerque-bicycle-safety-overview-infrastructure-and-crash-stats/
[2] 2023 New Mexico Statutes :: Chapter 37 – Limitation of Actions; Abatement and Revivor :: Article 1 – Limitations of Actions :: Section 37-1-10 – Minors; incapacitated persons. (n.d.). Justia Law. https://law.justia.com/codes/new-mexico/chapter-37/article-1/section-37-1-10/
Goldberg & Loren
4801 Lang Ave NE UNIT 110,
Albuquerque, NM 87109
(505) 317-5813
We fight hard for our clients who have suffered injuries due to bicycle accidents in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Our personal injury lawyers fight for maximum compensation.
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