After a serious string of major bicycle accidents across Philadelphia, it’s worth understanding how a bicycle accident can impact a victim’s life. A hit and run driver recently struck a Philly cyclist and a deadly crash between a cyclist and a bus are an unfortunate reminder of just how severe these accidents can be.
It’s important to remember that the number of individuals killed on bikes is extremely high. For example, in the year 2014, there were 551 bike crashes in Philadelphia alone.
For individuals killed as a result of bike crashes in Philadelphia between 1997 and 2014, approximately 45 individuals have paid the ultimate price after an accident. Thousands of nonfatal crashes were also a major problem throughout every year.
Good weather brings more individuals riding their bikes on the streets of Philadelphia and it is important for drivers and cyclists to be aware of the challenges involved with riding your bike. It’s expected that some red light cameras and new intersection designs could help to eliminate some of the challenges associated with cyclist crashes.
When Negligence is an Issue with Bicycle Accidents
If someone else is at fault for the injuries you sustained in a Philadelphia bike accident, you may have grounds to file a personal injury claim. Reckless or distracted driving behavior, for example, may lead to severe injuries that impact your ability to earn a living or enjoy your life. If this has happened to you, one of the most important things you can do post-accident is to reach out to a Philadelphia accident attorney.
One of the most common times for a bicycle accident to happen is when a bicycle rider is turning one way or the other and the vehicle does not see him or her. Some cyclists are arguing for more protected lanes throughout the city, stating that vehicles regularly swerve into these lanes with very little care. Individuals thrown from a bicycle after being involved in a serious accident are likely to sustain major injuries that can impact them for many years to come.
Common Injuries from Bicycle Accidents
Some of the most common injuries associated with a bicycle accident include:
- Broken bones
- Fractures
- Lacerations
- Burns and scars
- Organ damage
- Head, neck, and shoulder pain
Any of these accidents can come with expensive medical bills and long recovery periods too. It’s in your best interests not to hesitate if you have recently been injured in an accident. You have a limited period in which you can file a Philadelphia bicycle accident claim, and you need an attorney who you can trust.
Attorney Richard Washington represents people injured or killed in Auto Accidents, Slip, Trip and Fall Down Accidents, Dog Bites, Medical Malpractice, Wrongful Death, Workers Compensation, Social Security Disability and Long Term Disability Claims in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, D.C. and Minnesota, including Philadelphia County, Montgomery County, Chester County, Berks County, Dauphin County, and Lehigh County. The law firm also represents clients regarding Estates, Wills and Probate. Attorney Richard Washington represents individuals charged with crimes including DUI, disorderly conduct, public drunkenness, underage drinking, assault, and possession of drugs in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, D.C. and Minnesota, including Philadelphia County, Montgomery County, Chester County, Berks County, Dauphin County, and Lehigh County.
Washington & Washington is a firm with trial lawyers with over 25 years of experience fighting for justice. The firm provides the highest standard of legal and ethical representation and access to the justice system for those arrested and in need of criminal defense, estate administration and when a loved one has been injured or has passed away by the actions of others. The firm makes sure people and their families have a fair chance to receive justice through the legal system – even when it means taking on the most powerful. We provide free consultations, home and hospital visits and night and weekend appointments. If we can be of service to you or anyone you know in any way, please do not hesitate to contact us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week toll free at (800) 988-0158.