Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Phoenix, Arizona

Keller Swan Injury Attorneys – Serving Injured Cyclists in Phoenix

Helping Injured Victims of Bicycle Accidents

Phoenix, Arizona, home to approximately 1.7 million residents, is a bustling urban center with a mix of residential areas and busy streets. The city’s layout and weather make it a popular place for cycling, but it also presents unique dangers for bicyclists. A Phoenix bicycle accident lawyer from Keller Swan Injury Attorneys can assist injured cyclists in seeking compensation through personal injury claims.

Why Bicycle Accidents Happen

Residential neighborhoods in Phoenix, much like in other cities, can be hazardous for cyclists. Drivers often feel more at ease on familiar roads, leading to increased distraction and risky behaviors such as driving under the influence. Cyclists share the roads with these drivers, making vigilance essential. A lawyer in Phoenix can help navigate the aftermath of a bicycle accident, seeking justice and compensation for injured riders.

Bicycle Accident Statistics

Cycling is a beloved activity in the United States, with nearly 104 million Americans riding bikes. It’s a mode of transportation that offers exercise, enjoyment, and practicality. However, accidents can turn this innocent activity deadly. According to the CDC, bicyclists account for 2% of traffic fatalities involving motor vehicles. Annually, approximately 1,000 cyclists die, and over 130,000 are injured in crashes nationwide.

The National Transportation Safety Bureau reports that about 25% of fatal bicycle crashes result from motorists overtaking cyclists between intersections. Phoenix is no exception, and local lawyers are prepared to help injured cyclists secure the compensation they deserve.

Bicycle Accidents in Arizona

Arizona sees its share of bicycle accidents. For example, in 2020, there were significant incidents involving cyclists, including deaths and severe injuries. As these numbers rise, it’s crucial to ask, “What more can be done to protect cyclists?”

Regular cyclists in Phoenix should know their rights and consider discussing potential legal strategies with a Phoenix attorney in the event of an accident.

Key Aspects of Bicycle Accident Laws in Phoenix

Equipment Requirements

In Phoenix, Arizona, bicycle accident laws are designed to protect cyclists and ensure their safety on the road. Key equipment requirements include:

• Permanent Seat: Bicycles must have a permanent seat. No passengers are allowed unless the bicycle is equipped for tandem use.
• Night Riding Gear: For night riding, a white headlight visible from at least 500 feet and a red reflector visible from 50 feet to the rear are required.
• Functional Brakes: Bicycles must have at least one functional brake.

Traffic Laws and Cyclist Responsibilities

Cyclists in Phoenix are considered vehicles and must obey all traffic laws. This includes signaling turns and stopping at red lights and stop signs. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and can result in DUI charges.

Liability and Negligence

In the event of an accident, liability is determined based on negligence. The party that failed to exercise reasonable care is held responsible. Common factors include distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield by motorists, as well as cyclists not following traffic regulations. Arizona follows a comparative fault rule, where compensation is reduced by the cyclist’s percentage of fault. For example, if a cyclist is found to be 20% at fault, they can only recover 80% of the total damages.

Insurance and Compensation

Motorists in Arizona are required to carry liability insurance to cover damages in accidents they cause. However, insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, so it is beneficial to have legal representation to negotiate and ensure fair compensation.

Preventative Measures and Safety

Cyclists should wear helmets, use hand signals, wear bright and reflective clothing, and maintain their bicycles properly to enhance safety. Advocacy for better infrastructure and community education can also help reduce accidents.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

A lawyer in Phoenix is equipped to handle claims involving various injuries, such as:

• Head Injuries: Even with helmets, cyclists can suffer traumatic brain injuries, concussions, facial fractures, and vision damage.
• Knee Injuries: Accidents can cause strains or tears in the ACL, MCL, or meniscus, particularly for cyclists using clip-on shoes.
• Back and Neck Injuries: Spinal injuries can result from the forceful impacts of bicycle accidents.
• Broken Bones: Common fractures include collarbones, hands, fingers, arms, legs, ankles, and toes.

Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Driver negligence is the leading cause of bicycle accidents. All drivers have a duty of care to ensure the safety of others on the road. When this duty is breached through acts such as texting while driving, DUI, or ignoring traffic signals, accidents occur.

Other causes include:

• Inexperienced drivers
• Speeding or aggressive driving
• Poor vehicle maintenance
• Ignoring blind spots
• Failing to use signals
• Running stop signs and red lights
• Not maintaining safe distances from cyclists

A Phoenix lawyer will determine the cause of a bicycle collision and work to hold the negligent party accountable.

What To Do After a Bicycle Accident

If you are involved in a bicycle accident, take these steps:

1. Seek Emergency Medical Treatment: Your health is the top priority. If needed, go to the hospital immediately.
2. Contact the Police: File a report to document the accident.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos, videos, and notes about the accident, vehicle positions, and your injuries.
4. Speak to Witnesses: Collect contact information from witnesses and encourage them to speak to the police.
5. Note Security Cameras: Identify any cameras that may have recorded the accident.
6. Receive Medical Treatment: Get a thorough examination, even if you think you’re not seriously injured.
7. Contact Keller Swan Injury Attorneys: Speak with an attorney before talking to insurance companies or accepting settlements.

Compensation for Bicycle Accidents

Victims can receive compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical expenses, lost wages, and future treatment costs. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and loss of earning capacity.

Why Choose Keller Swan for Your Phoenix Bicycle Accident Case?

Selecting the right attorney is crucial for a successful claim. Keller Swan Injury Attorneys offers:

• Extensive experience with bicycle accident cases in Phoenix
• Local connections with medical facilities and law enforcement
• Access to expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical experts
• Proven results with significant settlements for accident clients

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Helmets Really Necessary?

Yes. Helmets reduce the risk of major head trauma or brain injury by almost 50%.

What Are Some Tips for Sharing the Road?

• Follow traffic rules as if driving a car.
• Signal every turn.
• Avoid riding between lanes.
• Stay alert and avoid distractions.
• Wear reflective gear and use bike lights.

What Are Arizona’s Bicycle Laws?

• Ride on the right side of the road.
• Use bike lanes when available.
• Cyclists under 18 must wear helmets.
• Maintain a 3-foot distance from others.
• Yield to pedestrians on sidewalks.

Contact a Phoenix Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

Reach out to Keller Swan Injury Attorneys to start your path to recovery. Our team is dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve.