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Oregon Bicycle Accident Attorney
Find out why we have some of the best personal injury lawyers in Oregon
As the scenic landscapes of Oregon draw in cycling enthusiasts, the prevalence of bicycle accidents in the state has become a significant concern. In 2019 alone, there were 980 bicycle crashes, resulting in 12 deaths. [1]
If you’re a victim of a bicycle incident in Oregon, you need the expertise of a bicycle accident attorney who understands the unique laws and regulations surrounding these cases. Our team of experienced attorneys is here to represent you and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can result from various factors, often involving a combination of road conditions, human behavior, and environmental elements. In Oregon, common causes of bicycle accidents include:
Motorist Negligence:
- Inattentive or distracted drivers fail to notice a bike on the road
- Drivers making abrupt turns or lane changes without checking for cyclists
Intersection Collisions:
- Accidents frequently occur at intersections where bicycles and vehicles cross paths
- Failure to yield the right of way and misjudgment of cyclist speed contribute to intersection collisions
Dooring Incidents:
- Opening car doors without checking for approaching cyclists
Unsafe Road Conditions:
- Poorly maintained roads, potholes, and debris pose hazards to cyclists
- Lack of proper signage and road markings can contribute to confusion and accidents
DUI/DWI Incidents:
- Impaired driving significantly increases the risk of accidents
- Alcohol or drug-related impairment compromises reaction times and decision-making
Lack of Visibility:
- Inadequate visibility, especially during low-light conditions or inclement weather
- Cyclists without proper reflective gear and motorists unaware of a cyclist’s presence contribute to visibility-related accidents
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycle accidents can lead to a range of injuries, varying in severity based on the circumstances of the incident. Common injuries resulting from bicycle accidents in Oregon include:
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions are common, especially if the cyclist is not wearing a helmet. Head injuries can have long-term consequences and require immediate medical attention.
- Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries: Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and collarbones, are common in bicycle accidents. You may experience fractures due to the impact of the road or a collision with a vehicle.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Abrasions, lacerations, and contusions often result from contact with the road surface. Soft tissue injuries may vary in severity and can lead to significant pain and discomfort.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: High-impact accidents can result in spinal cord injuries, leading to paralysis or long-term mobility challenges. The neck and back are particularly vulnerable in bicycle accidents.
- Facial Injuries: You may sustain injuries to the face, including fractures, contusions, and dental injuries.
- Internal Injuries: Impact from a collision can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding. Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent and require prompt medical evaluation.
- Psychological Trauma: Emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can result from the psychological impact of a bicycle accident. The fear and stress associated with the incident may affect the mental well-being of the cyclist.
- Road Rash: Friction between the cyclist’s skin and the road surface can cause road rash, resulting in painful abrasions and skin injuries. Wearing protective clothing can reduce the severity of road rash.
- Nerve Damage: Trauma from an accident can lead to nerve damage, affecting sensation and function in various parts of the body.
Our Oregon Practice Areas
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Birth Injury
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Bus Accidents
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Car Accidents
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Dog Bites
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Medical Malpractice
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Motorcycle Accidents
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Personal Injury
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Pedestrian Accidents
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Premises Liability
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Product Liability
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Slip and Falls
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Truck Accidents
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Wrongful Death
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
After an accident, adrenaline is engaged and emotions are high. Though these things are true, it is best to make rational decisions at that moment.
- Ensure safety by moving to a secure location and using hazard lights.
- Seek immediate medical attention and call 911, even for minor injuries.
- Exchange contact, insurance, and witness information with involved parties.
- Document the scene by taking photos of the accident, injuries, and damages.
- File a police report to provide an accurate account of the incident.
- Preserve evidence, including damaged items and relevant documents.
- Notify insurance companies promptly, providing necessary documentation.
- Consult with our bicycle accident attorney to understand your legal options.
- Follow medical recommendations, attend appointments, and document expenses.
Compensation From a Bicycle Accident
After an accident, depending on each instance, here are some damages that you can get compensated for:
- Medical Expenses: You may be entitled to compensation for current and future medical expenses related to injuries sustained in the accident. This can include hospital bills, surgery costs, rehabilitation, medications, and any necessary medical equipment.
- Lost Income: If the accident caused you to miss work, you may be able to seek compensation for lost wages. This can also include future earning capacity if your injuries impact your ability to work.
- Property Damage: You can seek compensation for the repair or replacement of your damaged bicycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages, such as physical pain, emotional distress, and a decreased quality of life, may also be considered in a personal injury claim.
- Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If the accident results in a long-term disability or disfigurement, you may be entitled to compensation for the impact it has on your life.
- Wrongful Death: In cases where a bicyclist dies as a result of the accident, their family may be able to pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional distress.
- Insurance Claims: If the at-fault party has insurance, their liability coverage may provide compensation for your damages. Your own insurance coverage, such as personal injury protection (PIP) or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, may also come into play.
- Negligence Claims: If someone else’s negligence caused the accident, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party. Proving negligence typically involves showing that the other party had a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries.
Consulting with our personal injury attorneys in Oregon can guide you through the legal process. Keep in mind that the compensation you receive will depend on the circumstances of the accident and the applicable laws in your area.
Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Goldberg & Loren
At Goldberg & Loren, we understand the challenges you face after a bicycle accident. Our team of experienced lawyers is here to support you in every step of the legal process. Here’s how we can help:
- Legal Consultation: We provide a thorough consultation to discuss your case, assess its strengths, and help you understand your rights.
- Investigation and Liability Determination: Our team conducts a thorough investigation to determine liability, collecting essential evidence to build a strong case.
- Damages Assessment: We calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain, and suffering, ensuring no aspect is overlooked.
- Insurance Negotiations: Goldberg & Loren engages in negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf, advocating for fair compensation for your losses.
- Legal Representation: In the event of unsuccessful negotiations, we are prepared to file a personal injury lawsuit and provide strong representation in court to secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with our skilled bicycle accident attorneys in Oregon. We are here to support you throughout the legal process and help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t wait, take action now and secure the legal representation you need.
FAQs
Liability is often determined by establishing negligence. If another party, such as a motorist, breached their duty of care and caused the accident, they may be held liable.
In such cases, your own insurance policy, specifically uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, may provide compensation for your damages.
It's generally advisable to consult with a lawyer before speaking to the insurance company. They can help you navigate the process, ensuring you don't inadvertently say anything that could harm your case.
The time limit is known as the Statute of Limitations. In Oregon, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a claim.
Source:
[1] Oregon Gov. (n.d.). https://www.oregon.gov/odot/Data/Documents/Crash_Summary_2019.pdf
We fight hard for our clients who have been injured in a bicycle accident in Oregon. Our personal injury lawyers fight for maximum compensation.
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