As the weather warms up in Georgia, more bicyclists will take to the roads in Athens, Augusta, and surrounding areas. While cycling is a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, it also comes with risks—especially when negligent drivers fail to respect bicyclists’ rights on the road. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents can result in severe injuries, leaving victims with costly medical bills, lost wages, and lasting physical pain. At Burnside Law Firm, we help injured bicyclists fight for the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, contact us today to discuss your case.
Common Bicycle Accidents Caused by Negligent Drivers
Many bicycle accidents occur because motorists fail to share the road responsibly. Here are some of the most common types of collisions to watch out for this spring:
1. Right Hook Accidents
A right hook accident happens when a vehicle makes a right turn in front of a bicyclist traveling in the same direction. This occurs when drivers misjudge a cyclist’s speed or fail to check their blind spots before turning. These crashes often result in serious injuries since the bicyclist may have little time to react.
2. Dooring Accidents
Dooring accidents happen when a parked driver or passenger suddenly opens their car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. The cyclist may not have enough time to swerve safely, resulting in a collision that can lead to broken bones, concussions, or other serious injuries.
3. Rear-End Collisions
Bicyclists are at risk of being rear-ended when drivers fail to pay attention, follow too closely, or misjudge stopping distances. Distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving are common causes of rear-end bicycle accidents. Since bicyclists have little protection, these accidents often result in severe injuries.
4. Left Turn Accidents
A left-turn accident occurs when a vehicle turning left at an intersection collides with an oncoming cyclist who has the right of way. These accidents are often caused by drivers who fail to yield or miscalculate a cyclist’s speed.
5. Failure to Yield at Intersections
Intersections are particularly dangerous for bicyclists, especially when drivers ignore traffic signals or fail to yield properly. Many bicycle accidents occur at intersections due to careless drivers running stop signs or failing to look for cyclists before proceeding.
When Should an Injured Bicyclist Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, it is essential to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our team at Burnside Law Firm can help you with the following:
- Gather crucial evidence to prove driver negligence
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement
- File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary
Don’t wait to take action—Georgia has strict time limits for filing personal injury claims. Contact Burnside Law Firm today for a free consultation and let us fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
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