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It can be hard to know what to do after a bike crash. Shealey Law Firm explains what steps to take if you’re in a bicycle accident in Columbia.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Columbia, SC
Top causes of bicycle accidents in Columbia, SC are:
- Trying to pass a bicyclist when there isn’t room
- Drivers failing to watch for bicyclists
- Failure to yield for bicyclists
- Poor bicycle lane planning
- Dark crosswalks, missing crosswalks
- Bad markings for bicycle crossing areas
- Opening a car door in front of a bicyclist
- Inadequate road marking and traffic control
- Mechanical issues
- Road disrepair
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
Mechanical failure
Bicycle accidents are common in low-light conditions, like dawn and dusk. The most crashes happen between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Bicycle accident causes can be complex. A driver may have committed a traffic violation, but road design may have contributed. A lawyer can help you evaluate all potential grounds for fault.
Bicycle Accidents – A Serious Problem in Columbia, SC
SCDOT reports that the most fatal bicycle crashes happen in urban areas, including in Richland County.
Some locations in Columbia, SC are especially dangerous. For example, Harden Street between Gevais Street and Blossom Street had five bicycle crashes over a five-year period. Blossom Street from Lincoln Street to Saluda Avenue had two crashes in the same period.
Even at lower speeds, bicycle accidents are especially dangerous. The SCDOT Safety Action Plan reports that bicycle accidents have the highest fatality rates (34%) where the posted speed limit is 25 or less. When the posted speed limit is 50 or more, the fatality rate for bicycle crashes is just 9%.
South Carolina Bicycle Laws Every Rider Should Know
Bicyclists have the same right to use the road as vehicle operators. That means bicyclists must follow traffic laws. They must be careful.
In addition, bicyclists must stay to the right of the roadway as much as possible. Bicyclists may not ride more than two next to each other except in dedicated bike lanes. A bicycle may carry only the number of riders it is designed for.
It’s illegal to ride a bicycle attached to a vehicle.
Bicycle laws also address vehicle drivers. For example, it’s illegal to harass or throw objects at bicyclists.
How Is Fault Determined After a Bicycle Accident in SC?
Bicycle accident fault is based on whose actions caused the accident. It’s a question of who failed to exercise reasonable care in a way that caused the accident.
For example, a driver may try to pass a bicyclist when there isn’t enough room. If they strike the bicyclist, they’re likely at fault.
However, fault can be more complex than that. The road design may have contributed to the crash. The government can be liable when road conditions are legally deficient.
To determine fault, you must investigate all causes. A lawyer can represent you.
Common Injuries Suffered in Bike Crashes
Common injuries in bike crashes include:
- Broken bones
- Organ damage from blunt force trauma
- Damage to vision and hearing
- Traumatic brain injury, concussion
- Nerve damage
- Cuts, bruises, burns
- Soft tissue damage, ligament and tendon damage, sprains
- Disfigurement, mobility impairment
- Spinal cord damage, paralysis
- Mental health injury
- Loss of consciousness
- Wrongful death
Victims may claim compensation for physical and mental injuries.
What Compensation Can a Bicycle Accident Victim Recover?
Compensation for a bicycle accident is both economic and non-economic. It should reflect the financial impact and the personal loss. Financial losses include medical bills, lost income, and increased household expenses. Non-economic losses are things like pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, and impairment.
Many people underestimate the value of their claim. Our lawyers can help.
What to Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident in Columbia
Here’s what to do after a bicycle accident in Columbia:
Call the police. Report the accident to law enforcement immediately. You need them to document the scene. They can gather critical evidence.
Medical care. Prioritize your medical care. When you’re in a bike crash, there’s a good chance you’re hurt. You may not even realize it. Follow 911 instructions and accept medical help.
Document the accident scene. If someone can document the accident scene, ask for their help. They should take photos of the vehicle and the license plate. They should get the driver’s license and insurance information. If there are witnesses, get their contact information.
Look for evidence. Nearby businesses may have surveillance cameras. Ask them to save it and give you a copy. Follow up with witnesses. A lawyer can help you quickly before evidence is lost.
Know your rights. You have limited time to claim compensation. Don’t wait to start your case.
Don’t be fooled. Insurance companies handle bicycle accident claims differently. They’re quick to blame the bicyclist, even when it’s not your fault. They may misrepresent coverage or downplay damages. You have the right to attorney representation.
How a Columbia Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Shealey Law Firm represents injured bicyclists and their families. We investigate, strategize, build evidence, and negotiate. We’re experienced trial lawyers who help people get the compensation they deserve.
Our attorneys handle bicycle accident compensation claims in Columbia, SC.
Call or message us now.