Cycling is a healthy and eco-friendly way to get around Philadelphia, but sharing the road with cars and trucks can be dangerous. A collision with a motor vehicle can cause catastrophic injuries, leaving victims with long-term medical needs and financial burdens. Knowing what steps to take and how to secure the right legal representation can make a significant difference in your recovery and your ability to obtain justice.
Why Cars and Trucks Hit Bike Riders: Common Causes of Collisions
Sharing the road with trucks can be especially dangerous for bicyclists. These vehicles’ size, weight, and limited maneuverability often make accidents severe or catastrophic when they involve cyclists. Here are the most common reasons why trucks hit bike riders:
1. Limited Visibility
- Blind Spots: Trucks have large blind spots on all sides. Cyclists riding alongside or behind a truck may be invisible to the driver.
- High Cab Position: Truck drivers sit much higher than car drivers, making it harder to see objects or people close to the vehicle.
2. Right-Turn Collisions
- “Right Hook” Accidents: When a truck turns right, the driver may not notice a cyclist traveling straight in the bike lane or on the road’s shoulder.
- Wide Turning Radius: Trucks often swing left before making a right turn, confusing cyclists and leading to collisions.
3. Lane Merging and Squeezing
- Improper Passing: Truck drivers sometimes pass too closely, leaving cyclists with little room to maneuver safely.
- Lane Sharing: On narrow roads, trucks and cyclists may be forced to share the lane, increasing the likelihood of side-swipe accidents.
4. Distracted Driving
- Technology Distractions: Truck drivers may be using GPS, communicating with dispatch, or handling other in-cab distractions.
- Fatigue: Long hours on the road can cause truck drivers to lose focus, increasing the risk of hitting cyclists.
5. Poor Road Conditions
- Obstacles in the Roadway: Debris, potholes, or poor signage can force cyclists into the path of a truck.
- Weather: Rain, fog, or icy roads reduce visibility and traction for both cyclists and trucks, making accidents more likely.
6. Speeding and Aggressive Driving
- Excessive Speed: Trucks moving at high speeds have less time to react to cyclists and require longer stopping distances.
- Impatience: Truck drivers in a hurry may engage in risky maneuvers, such as tailgating or unsafe lane changes, which endanger cyclists.
7. Failure to Yield
- At Intersections: Trucks sometimes fail to yield to cyclists who have the right of way, leading to collisions.
- Driveways and Parking Lots: Trucks entering or exiting driveways may overlook cyclists traveling on the road or sidewalk.
8. Inadequate Training or Negligence
- Driver Inexperience: Some truck drivers lack proper training to safely share the road with bicycles.
- Disregard for Cyclists: Drivers who are unaware of cyclists’ rights or fail to take precautions increase accident risks.
9. Equipment Failures
- Brake Issues: Malfunctioning brakes can prevent trucks from stopping in time to avoid a collision.
- Mirror Adjustments: Improperly adjusted mirrors can exacerbate blind spot issues.
- Load Shifts: Improperly secured cargo can cause trucks to swerve or tip, endangering nearby cyclists.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, here’s what to do next.
What to Do If You Are Hit By A Car Or Truck While Riding A Bicycle
Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health is the most important priority.
- Call 911: Even if you think your injuries are minor, emergency medical evaluation is essential.
- Follow Up with Your Doctor: Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or internal bleeding, may not show immediate symptoms but can have serious consequences if untreated.
- Keep Medical Records: Detailed documentation of your injuries and treatment is critical for your legal case.
Step 2: Document the Accident Scene
If you’re able to do so safely:
- Take Photos: Capture images of the vehicle, your bicycle, your injuries, and the surrounding area.
- Collect Information: Get the driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and license plate number.
- Look for Witnesses: Ask bystanders for their contact information and statements about what they saw.
Step 3: Report the Accident
- File a Police Report: Make sure the accident is documented by law enforcement. Request a copy of the report later for your records.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurer about the accident, even if the other driver is at fault.
Step 4: Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters
Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim by shifting blame or downplaying your injuries.
- Don’t Sign Anything: Avoid agreeing to settlements or signing documents without consulting an attorney.
- Refer All Communication to Your Lawyer: This ensures your rights are protected, and you receive fair compensation.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents often result in severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, cyclists are vulnerable to head injuries.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
- Fractures: Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and collarbone.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to organs from the impact.
- Road Rash: Severe skin abrasions that may require surgical treatment.
Why You Need a Lawyer
Catastrophic bicycle accidents often involve complex legal and insurance issues. An experienced personal injury lawyer can:
- Investigate the Accident: Identify the cause of the collision and gather evidence to support your claim.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Maximize your compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Pursue Legal Action: File a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.
Why Call Washington & Washington?
Compassionate Advocacy for Victims in Crisis
At Washington & Washington we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a catastrophic injury takes. We will listen to your story and provide personalized attention to your case.
Proven Expertise in Personal Injury Law
As a highly skilled personal injury attorneys, Washington & Washington has the experience and resources needed to hold negligent drivers accountable.
No Fees Until Your Case Is Resolved
You won’t pay a dime unless Washington & Washington successfully resolves your case. This means you can focus on recovery without worrying about upfront legal costs.
What Compensation Can You Seek?
You may be entitled to recover damages for:
- Medical Bills: Current and future treatment, including rehabilitation and assistive devices.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for missed work and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Emotional and physical distress caused by the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for permanent disabilities or changes in your quality of life.
Take Action Today
When you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, every moment counts. Evidence must be preserved, and legal deadlines apply. Washington & Washington will handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing.
You won’t pay any fees unless we win your case. Let Washington & Washington fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Toll free at 1-800-988-0158.