Experienced Portland Oregon Bicycle Accident Attorney
Portland Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Find out why we have some of the best bicycle accident attorneys in Portland
Have You Recently Been Involved in a Bicycle Accident in Portland, Oregon?
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you will need representation. Our bicycle accident lawyers at Goldberg & Loren are dedicated to helping accident victims like you obtain fair settlements.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us advocate for you. Pay nothing unless we win!
Bicycle Accident Attorney
In 2019, there were 220 injuries and one death related to bicycle accidents in Portland.[1] Our legal teams will provide you with the guidance you need to navigate through the legal process.
We will help determine who is at fault, gather evidence to support your case and negotiate with insurance companies so you can work on healing. All the while, we will advocate for you, fighting to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
As of 2023, about 22,400 Portland commuters travel by bike. [2]
The Benefits of Hiring a Portland Bicycle Accident Attorney
One of the key advantages of hiring Goldberg & Loren bicycle attorneys is our track record of success. We know how to help you build a strong case.
Insurance companies may try to downplay your injuries or shift the blame onto you. With our bicycle accident lawyers by your side, you can have confidence your rights will be protected. We will fight tirelessly to hold the negligent driver accountable and secure a fair settlement for you.
Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Portland
Negligent Drivers
Negligent drivers play a significant role in causing bicycle accidents in Portland, Oregon.
They may engage in dangerous behaviors such as distracted driving, speeding, aggressive driving, and impaired driving, creating an unsafe environment for bicycle riders.
Innattentional blindness may also occur which is the experience of not seeing a bicyclist as the driver is not actively looking for them. [1]
The consequences of their negligence can be severe, leading to catastrophic injuries, fatalities, and even wrongful death lawsuits.
Poorly Maintained Roads and Bike Lanes
Potholes, cracks, and debris on the road can cause cyclists to lose control of their bikes and potentially collide with other vehicles or objects.
In Portland, there are several examples of poorly maintained roads and bike lanes that pose risks to cyclists. The causes of many bike accidents include broken pavement, missing bike lane markings, and inadequate signage.
Mechanical Malfunctions or Defects in the Bicycle or Parts
These issues can arise due to manufacturing errors, design flaws, or inadequate maintenance. When a bicycle malfunctions while in motion, it can lead to loss of control and potentially catastrophic accidents.
A faulty brake system may fail to work properly, impeding a cyclist’s ability to slow down or stop in time to avoid a collision. If the bicycle accident occurs due to a defective part, a product liability case may be pursued.
Bicyclist deaths are highest during the summer months between June and September. Nearly three-quarters of all bicyclist deaths occur in urban areas.
Failing to yield the right of way is the highest factor in fatal bike crashes. [3]
Table of Contents
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Bicycle Accident Attorney
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The Benefits of Hiring a Portland, Oregon Bicycle Accident Attorney
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Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Portland, Oregon
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Types of Bicycle Accidents
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Types of Injuries Commonly Suffered from Bicycle Accidents
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Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims in Portland
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Statute of Limitations on Bicycle Accidents in Portland
Types of Bicycle Accidents
One common type of accident is a sideswipe accident, where a driver fails to give enough space to a cyclist while passing, resulting in a collision.
- Left-turn accidents occur when drivers fail to yield to bicycles when making turns, leading to dangerous T-bone accidents.
- Pull-in-front accidents happen when a driver pulls out in front of a bicyclist without giving them enough time to react, causing a direct collision.
Types of Injuries Commonly Suffered from Bicycle Accidents
Neck Injuries
Neck injuries are common bicycle accident injuries and can result from the impact of a collision or from a fall.
The force exerted on the neck can cause a range of injuries, including strains, sprains, herniated discs, or fractures.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries can occur when a sudden external force causes damage to the brain, often resulting from a blow or jolt to the head during a bicycle accident.
The symptoms of TBIs can vary widely. Some injury victims may experience headaches, dizziness, confusion, or difficulty remembering events before or after the accident.
Physical symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light or noise.
Broken Bones
Fractures can cause immense pain, often requiring prolonged medical treatment and rehabilitation. Depending on the severity of the injury, there is the possibility of long-term or permanent disabilities.
Medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation, can quickly accumulate. Lost wages may also need to be considered due to time off work during the recovery process.
Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage
When a cyclist is involved in a collision with a motor vehicle, the impact and force exerted on their body can lead to severe internal injuries.
The impact from the vehicle can cause organs to be crushed against other structures within the body, leading to internal bleeding. This bleeding may not be immediately apparent and can go unnoticed for hours or even days after the accident.
Common symptoms of internal bleeding include abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, and rapid heartbeat. Internal injuries can be very serious and can result in death if not treated.
Soft Tissue Damage
In bicycle accidents, soft tissue damage is a common injury. It may include strains and sprains or torn ligaments and muscles.
Soft tissue damage can result in various symptoms, including pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
Psychological Trauma
The emotional injuries that can result from the trauma of a bicycle accident can be profound and long-lasting.
Bike accidents can be traumatic events that shake an individual’s sense of safety and well-being. The sudden impact and force of the accident can not only cause physical harm but also leave lasting psychological scars.
Individuals may find themselves unable to return to their normal routines, feeling easily triggered or constantly on edge. They may have difficulty sleeping, experience flashbacks or nightmares, or struggle with concentration and memory.
Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims in Portland
Economic damages cover the tangible losses suffered by bicycle accident victims. This includes medical expenses such as hospital bills, physical therapy, and medication costs.
These damages may also encompass lost wages due to missed work during the recovery period. If the bicycle or any personal property was damaged in the accident, the victim may also be eligible for additional compensation for repair or replacement.
Non-economic damages are aimed at compensating the intangible losses experienced by the victim. This includes pain and suffering, which can include both physical and emotional distress caused by the accident. Loss of enjoyment of life is also considered, as bicycle accidents can drastically limit a person’s ability to engage in the activities they once enjoyed.
Statute of Limitations on Bicycle Accidents in Portland
The Statute of Limitations on bicycle accidents in Portland, Oregon, refers to the time limit in which a bicycle accident victim must file a lawsuit in order to seek financial compensation for their injuries and damages. In Portland, there is typically a timeframe of two years from the date of the accident for the victim to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Failing to file a lawsuit within the Statute of Limitations can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
While the general rule is a two-year time limit for filing a lawsuit, there may be certain exceptions or extensions to the Statute of Limitations in specific cases.
Consult with our personal injury attorneys in Portland to discuss whether any exceptions apply to your specific situation.
Have you recently been in a bicycle accident and in need of legal assistance?
As experts in bicycle accident law, we understand the unique challenges and complexities involved in these cases. Our bicycle accident lawyers will fight tirelessly on your behalf to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and damages.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today to schedule a free consultation. Don’t wait, as time is of the essence when it comes to building a strong case. Trust the experts to guide you through this challenging time and get the justice you deserve.
Sources:
[1] Bicycles in Portland Fact Sheet | Bicycle Resources | The City of Portland, Oregon. (2019, April 23). https://www.portlandoregon.gov/transportation/article/407660
[2] 2023 Portland Bicycle Counts. (2024, February 13). portland.gov. Retrieved March 26, 2024, from https://www.portland.gov/transportation/bicycle-committee/documents/presentation-preview-2023-bicycle-count-report/download
[3] V. (2023, October 19). Portland Bicycle Safety Overview: Infrastructure and Crash Stats – People Powered Movement. People Powered Movement. https://www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/portland-bicycle-safety-overview-infrastructure-and-crash-stats/#:~:text=Bicycle%20Crash%20Injuries%20and%20Deaths,of%20358%20injuries%20in%202012.
Goldberg & Loren
6500 S Macadam Ave #300
Portland, OR 97239
(971) 339-8080
If you have been injured while biking in Portland due to someone else's negligence give us a call to see if you have a personal injury case.
We Represent Those Injured in Bicycle Accidents in the Following Cities and Communities Near Portland, Oregon.
- Beaverton, OR
- Hillsboro, OR
- Vancouver, WA
- Clackamas County, OR
- Clark County, WA
- Columbia County, OR
- Multnomah County, OR
- Skamania County, WA
- Washington County, OR
- Skamania County, WA
- Yamhill County, OR
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