Quick Answer
After a bicycle accident in Beaverton, you generally have two years to file an injury claim in Oregon (ORS 12.110). Under Oregon law, people on bicycles have the same rights and duties as drivers (ORS 814.400), so a driver who turns across a bike lane or opens a door into a rider can be held responsible. You can recover even if you were partly at fault, as long as your share is 50% or less (ORS 31.600). A case review with Goldberg & Loren is free, and you pay nothing unless we win.
A bicycle accident can be frustrating and painful. It can be scarring mentally and physically. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident in Beaverton, Oregon, you may be eligible to file a legal claim.
Goldberg & Loren have helped bicycle accident victims in Beaverton for three decades and helped them get maximum compensation. Contact our Beaverton bicycle accident lawyers today at (503) 831-9930 to schedule a free consultation. Let us guide you through every step of the way.
Our Verdicts and Settlements
What Legally Qualifies as A Bicycle Accident in Beaverton?
Beaverton bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries and even fatalities. Whether caused by negligent drivers, road hazards, or other factors, bicycle accidents can have profound physical, emotional, and financial repercussions for cyclists and their families.
Bicycle accidents involve bicycles that have been hit by motor vehicles. These accidents result in harm, injury and/or damage to the bicycle, all of which may leave you with mounting bills to pay.
Types of Bicycle Accidents Common in Beaverton
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.
In 2021 alone, a total of 961 bicyclists were killed in crashes involving motor vehicles in the US, according to a report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). [1]
Bicycle accidents can lead to injuries for the cyclist and, in some cases, damage to property. Here are some types of bicycle accidents:
- Head-on Crashes: Head-on crashes occur when a cyclist collides head-on with another vehicle, such as a car or another cyclist, traveling in the opposite direction. These accidents often result from improper passing, failure to stay within designated lanes, or distracted driving.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents: Hit-and-run accidents involve situations where a cyclist is struck by a vehicle, and the driver fails to stop at the scene of the accident. These accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities, and the driver's failure to stop can complicate the investigation and pursuit of legal recourse for the injured cyclist.
- Left-Turn Crashes: Left-turn crashes occur when a cyclist traveling straight through an intersection is struck by a vehicle making a left turn across their path. These accidents often happen when motorists fail to yield the right-of-way to cyclists or misjudge the cyclist's speed or distance.
- Right-Hook Crashes: Right-hook crashes occur when a cyclist traveling straight ahead or in a bike lane is struck by a vehicle making a right turn across their path. These accidents often happen when motorists fail to check their blind spots or yield to cyclists before turning, resulting in collisions at intersections or driveways.
- Sideswipe Accidents: Sideswipe accidents involve situations where a cyclist is struck by a vehicle traveling parallel to them, resulting in contact along the side of the bicycle. These accidents can occur when motorists attempt to pass cyclists without providing enough clearance or fail to notice cyclists riding alongside them.
Causes of Beaverton Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can occur in various situations, and their severity can range from minor incidents to serious or fatal collisions. Here are some common types of bicycle accidents:
Intersection Accidents:
Intersection accidents involve collisions between bicycles and vehicles at intersections, where different road users must navigate through complex traffic patterns and conflicting movements. Common scenarios include:
- Failure to Yield: Both motorists and cyclists may fail to yield the right-of-way at intersections, leading to collisions when multiple vehicles or cyclists attempt to proceed simultaneously.
- Red-Light Running: Cyclists and motorists who disregard traffic signals may run red lights at intersections, increasing the risk of collisions with cross traffic.
- Confusion at Multi-Lane Intersections: Large or complex intersections with multiple lanes of traffic can be particularly challenging for cyclists to navigate, leading to confusion and potential accidents.
Bicycle Lane Accidents:
Bicycle lane accidents involve collisions or conflicts between cyclists and other road users within designated bicycle lanes. Common scenarios include:
- Encroachments by Motorists: Motorists may encroach into bicycle lanes while turning, parking, or maneuvering, posing a hazard to cyclists traveling in designated bike lanes.
Dooring Accidents:
- Dooring accidents occur when a cyclist collides with an open car door, typically when a parked vehicle occupant exits without checking for approaching cyclists.
- These accidents often happen in urban areas with on-street parking or in areas where cyclists share the roadway 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: Equipment malfunctions, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, can cause cyclists to lose control and crash.
Injuries Sustained Due to Beaverton Bicycle Accident
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.
Approximately 1,000 bicyclists lose their lives, and more than 130,000 sustain injuries in crashes on U.S. roads annually. [2]
Here are some common injuries sustained due to bicycle accidents:
- Amputations
- Facial Fractures
- Fractures
- Head & Neck Injuries
- Nerve Damage
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Sprains and Strains
Compensatory Damages for Victims of Bicycle Accident in Beaverton
When individuals are involved in bicycle accidents in Beaverton, Oregon, they may sustain injuries and experience significant losses as a result. In such cases, victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to various compensatory damages designed to help them recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
These compensatory damages aim to address the specific needs and hardships faced by the injured cyclists and may include the following:
Adaptive Equipment
Victims of bicycle accidents who sustain severe injuries may require adaptive equipment to assist with mobility and daily activities. This can include specialized bicycles, wheelchairs, prosthetic devices, or other assistive devices tailored to the individual's needs.
Disfigurement or Scarring
Bicycle accident injuries can result in disfigurement or scarring, which may have lasting physical and psychological effects on the victim. Compensatory damages may be awarded to address the emotional distress and aesthetic concerns associated with visible scarring or disfigurement.
In-Home Assistance
Severe injuries sustained in bicycle accidents may necessitate in-home assistance for activities of daily living, such as personal care, household chores, and transportation. Compensatory damages may cover the costs of hiring caregivers or obtaining professional assistance to support the injured cyclist's recovery and rehabilitation.
Loss of Consortium
In cases where bicycle accident injuries significantly impact the injured cyclist's relationship with their spouse, compensatory damages for loss of consortium may be awarded. These damages aim to compensate for the loss of companionship, affection, support, and intimacy suffered by the injured cyclist's loved ones.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Bicycle accident injuries can diminish the injured cyclist's ability to participate in activities and hobbies they once enjoyed, resulting in a loss of enjoyment of life. Compensatory damages may be awarded to address the physical limitations, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life experienced by the injured cyclist.
Lost Income
Serious injuries sustained in bicycle accidents may prevent the injured cyclist from returning to work or pursuing gainful employment, resulting in lost wages or income. Compensatory damages may include compensation for past and future lost earnings, including wages, bonuses, commissions, and other forms of income.
Medical Expenses
Bicycle accident victims may incur significant medical expenses for emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, rehabilitation, therapy, and other necessary medical interventions. Compensatory damages aim to cover these expenses and ensure access to quality medical care for the injured cyclist.
Pain and Suffering
Bicycle accident injuries often result in physical pain, discomfort, and suffering for the injured cyclist. This considers the severity and duration of the cyclist's injuries and their impact on daily life.
Property Damage
In bicycle accidents involving collisions with motor vehicles or other objects, the cyclist's bicycle and personal belongings may sustain damage or loss. Compensatory damages may cover the repair or replacement costs of the damaged property, including bicycles, cycling gear, and personal effects.
Rehabilitation Costs
Injured cyclists may require ongoing rehabilitation and therapy to recover from their injuries and regain function and mobility. Compensatory damages may include reimbursement for rehabilitation costs, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and vocational rehabilitation services.
Future Earning Capacity
Severe injuries sustained in bicycle accidents may impact the injured cyclist's ability to earn income in the future, particularly if they are unable to return to their previous occupation or pursue career advancement opportunities. Compensatory damages may include compensation for the loss of future earning capacity, taking into account factors such as the cyclist's age, education, skills, and earning potential.
Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accident Cases in Oregon
In Beaverton, Oregon, the Statute of Limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to a bicycle accident is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, there may be exceptions or extensions to this timeframe depending on the circumstances of the case.
Here's what you should keep in mind:
- Personal Injury: You must file an action 2 years from the bicycle accident for personal injuries. §30.905
- Wrongful Death: In the event of bicycle accident resulting in wrongful death, you have 3 years to file a claim. §30.020
- Injury to a Minor: If the injured party was a minor at the time of the accident, the Statute of limitations may be extended until they reach the age of 18.§12.160
Individuals involved in bicycle accidents should consult with our knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer to ensure all legal deadlines are met. Our local Beaverton bicycle accident attorneys can help navigate the complexities of the law, determine any potential exceptions or extensions to the Statute of Limitations, and ensure that all necessary documentation and evidence is gathered within the required timeframe.
What Our Clients Are Saying About Us - Client Reviews
https://maps.app.goo.gl/sfdensrUaW7i62My6
Beaverton Bicycle Accidents Infographic
Advantages of Hiring Our Beaverton Bicycle Accident Attorney
After a bicycle accident, the road to recovery can feel uphill. Medical bills pile up, injuries hinder your daily life, and navigating insurance companies can be daunting. Our dedicated bicycle accident attorneys are here to:
- Secure the Compensation You Deserve: We know bike accidents can have serious consequences. We fight for maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care. We have helped our clients get over half a billion USD in compensation.
- Uncover All Responsible Parties: Accidents involve more than just drivers. We investigate thoroughly to ensure all negligence is identified, including faulty bike parts, unsafe road conditions, or other contributing factors.
- Fight Insurance Companies on Your Behalf: Insurance adjusters have their own agenda. We have the experience to negotiate fiercely and challenge unfair offers.
- Handle the Legal Burden, So You Can Heal: Accident reports, witness statements, and legal processes can be overwhelming. We will handle it all, allowing you to focus on recovery.
You don't deserve to suffer in silence. Reach out to us today and let our Beaverton bicycle injury attorneys be your ally in seeking justice and getting the compensation you deserve.
Beaverton Resources for Bicycle Accidents
Local Hospitals:
Bicycle accidents may require immediate medical attention—preferably in level 1 trauma centers. Our clients recommend the following medical facilities in and near Beaverton:
AFC Urgent Care Beaverton
Address: 14278 SW Allen Blvd, Beaverton, OR 97005
Phone: (503) 305-6262
OHSU Trauma Center (Nearest Level 1 Trauma Center)
Address: OHSU Hospital, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR 97239
Phone: (503) 494-5300
*Note: Goldberg & Loren do not endorse these medical facilities. These are client-made suggestions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The first step should always be moving to safety and seeking medical attention. Be sure to take photos of your injuries and any damage done to your bicycle and the vehicle involved (if any). Obtain insurance information for the driver. Also, seek the contact information of any witnesses nearby.
The Statute of Limitations in Oregon for personal injuries is two years. Therefore, you have two years from the date of the incident, or discovery of injury to file an action. Unless the involved party is a minor, this date cannot be extended.
The liability of a bicycle accident can fall upon varying parties. This includes drunk, distracted, or reckless drivers causing the accident. It can also fall upon government entities or municipalities that failed to maintain roads and caused an accident.
Economic and non-economic damages are primary compensations in any personal injury case. The economic side covers immediate costs in the aftermath, such as medical bills, rehab costs, loss of wages, etc. On the other hand, non-economic compensation includes recompense for pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
You can file a case on your own, but it is not recommended. Hiring a professional bicycle accident attorney not only increases your chances but also ensures you do everything by the book. A capable bicycle accident attorney can provide a better chance that you will get the maximum compensation for your damages.
Sources:
[1] Fatality Facts 2021: Bicyclists. (n.d.). IIHS-HLDI Crash Testing and Highway Safety. https://www.iihs.org/topics/fatality-statistics/detail/bicyclists
[2] Bicycle Safety. (2024, April 29). Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Motorcycle Safety. https://www.cdc.gov/pedestrian-bike-safety/about/bicycle-safety.html
Our Beaverton bicycle accident lawyers are always looking out for our clients' best interests. We take a close look at expenses related to the accident and the turmoil the client has suffered and we fight for the maximum compensation. Give us a call and we will tell you if you have a case.
