Bicycle Accidents Attorneys in Richmond, Virginia

Virginia is widely considered one of the most bicycle-friendly states in the country. In particular, Richmond is a popular area for people to ride their bicycles both for recreation and as an alternative to commuting by car. But while bicycling may be safer here than in many other cities, that does not mean the risk of an accident is zero.

On the contrary, hundreds of bicyclists are injured in accidents every year in Virginia. In a handful of cases, these injuries prove fatal. And many bicycle accidents are the result of negligence by another party such as a motorist.

If you have been injured by such negligence, Richmond bicycle accident lawyer Ryan Wind can help. Wind Law, LLC, represents injured bicyclists seeking compensation for their accident-related losses. We can investigate the circumstances surrounding your accident, deal with insurance companies on your behalf, and if necessary take a negligent driver to court.

Reckless Driving Often Leads to Bicycle Accidents in Richmond, Virginia

Bicycle Accidents in Richmond

Anyone who has spent a significant amount of time riding a bicycle in Richmond has dealt with motorists who think they “own the road.” As a matter of law, however, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as anyone operating a car or truck. This means that bicyclists need to obey the same traffic laws. It also means that motorists cannot drive recklessly or aggressively which endangers the safety of bicyclists.

Some of the more common causes of bicycle accidents that we see at Wind Law, LLC, include:

  • motorists failing to check their mirrors and “blind spots” for bicycles;
  • motorists opening a car door that smacks into an approaching bicycle;
  • motorists turning without properly signaling first; and
  • motorists speeding through an intersection.

While any accident involving a motor vehicle can be serious, bicyclists are especially vulnerable due to their relative lack of protection. Even if a bicyclist wears a helmet and pads they can still face serious–and potentially fatal–injuries, including broken bones, road rash, spinal cord damage, and damage to internal organs. This is why any bicyclist who is involved in an accident should seek immediate medical attention, even if they initially feel like they can get up and “walk away” from the scene.

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Contact our Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Richmond, VA Today

After seeking medical attention, your next move following a bicycle accident should be to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. Dealing with the legal aftermath of a bicycle accident is often more complicated than you might realize. Insurance companies representing the negligent driver will be looking to minimize their potential liability. And due to Virginia’s “contributory negligence” rule in personal injury cases, any potential evidence of the bicyclist’s fault may be enough to deny compensation.

A qualified Richmond bicycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and help ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries. If you need to speak with an attorney right away, contact Wind Law, LLC, to schedule a free initial consultation.

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Frequently Asked Questions for Bicycle Accident in Richmond

How can Wind Law, LLC help me after a bicycle accident?

At Wind Law, LLC, we represent individuals involved in bicycle accidents. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

How long do I have to file a claim after a bicycle accident in Virginia?

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including bicycle accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. It's crucial to consult with an attorney at Wind Law, LLC, as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected and deadlines are met.

What if I was partially at fault for the bicycle accident?

Virginia follows a contributory negligence rule, which means that if you are found to be even partially at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering compensation. However, our skilled attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case and work to minimize any allegations of fault against you.

Will I have to go to court for my bicycle accident case?

Many bicycle accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations with insurance companies, avoiding the need for a trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys at Wind Law, LLC, are prepared to litigate your case in court to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Can I still pursue compensation if the at-fault driver doesn't have insurance?

In cases where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options for recovering compensation. Our attorneys can explore alternative sources of compensation, such as your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, to help you obtain the financial relief you need.

What should I do if the insurance company offers me a settlement after a bicycle accident?

It's important to proceed with caution when dealing with insurance companies. Before accepting any settlement offer, it's advisable to consult with an experienced attorney at Wind Law, LLC. We can review the offer and ensure that it fully compensates you for your injuries and damages. Insurance companies often try to settle for less than the full value of a claim, so having legal representation can help protect your rights.

Can I still file a claim if the bicycle accident occurred while I was riding in a bike lane or crosswalk?

Yes, you may still be able to file a claim for compensation if your bicycle accident occurred while riding in a bike lane or crosswalk. Motorists are required to yield to bicyclists in designated bike lanes and crosswalks. If a motorist violated your right-of-way and caused the accident, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Our attorneys can evaluate the circumstances of your case and advise you on the best course of action.

How long will it take to resolve my bicycle accident case?

The timeline for resolving a bicycle accident case can vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. While some cases may settle relatively quickly, others may require litigation and could take longer to resolve. Our attorneys will work diligently to pursue a timely resolution while ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your damages.