Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Pikesville, MD Fighting for the Rights of Those Injured In Bicycle Accidents 

Riding a bicycle can be for pleasure or as a means of transportation to and from work, school, or other places of necessary activities. This is especially true in larger metropolitan areas where more individuals opt to ride bicycles instead of dealing with heavy traffic and congestion.

However, heavy traffic is often the most dangerous aspect of riding a bicycle. As the number of cyclists sharing the road with motor vehicles increases, so does the chance of being involved in a serious accident. One of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in both congested areas and light traffic areas is when a driver either runs or turns right on a red light while the cyclist is simultaneously attempting to make a turn.

Often, construction work or unsafe road conditions make riding a bicycle even more dangerous for the rider. Uneven pavement can be especially hard to see beforehand and even more difficult to manage if it is wet.

All of these factors can cause you to be injured in a bicycle accident. If you have suffered injuries from the carelessness or negligence of a driver, you need a law firm that will fight aggressively for your rights. Depending on the factors of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and pain and suffering. Contact our law offices by calling (410) 484-0400 and making an appointment to speak with one of our qualified attorneys. We have extensive experience in handling cases like these and are dedicated to fighting for your rights.

What Are the Laws That Bicyclists Have to Follow in Maryland? 

Generally, all bicyclists in Maryland are required to follow the same rules as those who operate a motor vehicle.

There are, of course, provisions in the state law that apply only to bicyclists, such as:

• It is illegal to cling to a motor vehicle while riding a bicycle.
• Bicycles are only permitted to carry the number of individuals for which it is designed.
• A bicyclist is not permitted to ride with their hands full. Both hands must be on the handlebars.
• Bicycles may only carry passengers if they are equipped with proper seats designed for a bicycle.
• Bicycles are not permitted to travel on any roadway in which the posted speed limit is fifty miles per hour or greater.
• It is illegal to wear earplugs in both ears or headsets while operating a bicycle.
• A bicycle may not be ridden while hitched to the back of a vehicle.
• Helmets are strictly mandated for all bicycle riders (operator or passenger) who are under the age of 16.
• The same laws that apply to operating motor vehicles and consuming alcohol also apply to riding a bicycle in Maryland.
• Bicyclists are required to ride with the flow of traffic. A bicyclist should ride as close to the right side of the road as practical to allow for their own safety.

What are the Most Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents in Maryland? 

Being involved in a bicycle accident can be very painful, and you could sustain long-lasting injuries. Some of the most common injuries include the following:

• Dislocated joints and broken bones, and soft tissue injuries such as tears in the muscles and tendons.
• Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries. These include bleeding in the brain, concussions, and even coma.
• Road rash, is a side effect of being thrown from a bicycle and scraping across the pavement at a high rate of speed.
• Whiplash, is typically associated with neck and back injuries.
• Spinal cord injuries, can include temporary paralysis brought on by swelling on the spinal cord or permanent paralysis caused by severed nerves that cannot be repaired.

If a bicycle accident is severe enough, it can cause lifelong health problems and eventually even death. At the very least, you may suffer injuries that require surgery and other multiple medical procedures that may be required for recovery.

If you have suffered any of these injuries in a bicycle accident caused by another’s negligence, contact the Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P.A, by calling (410) 484-0400 and speak to one of our qualified bicycle accident attorneys.

What Steps Should I Take if I Have Been Injured in a Bicycle Accident? 

After you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it is understandable that you may be very anxious and distressed at what has happened to you. However, if a driver of a motor vehicle was at fault for your accident, you will need to gather evidence to assist you in building a case.

In order to prove that the driver of the vehicle was the responsible party who caused you to be injured, there are certain criteria that must be met.

You must be able to prove that the other party behaved in a reckless or negligent manner and that this is what caused you to suffer an injury. Your injury must also be as severe as you claim.

In order to be able to meet these criteria, you will need to gather evidence that supports your claim. This can include police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and medical records that pertain to the accident.

Frequently, insurance companies will attempt to deny accident claims or settle for significantly less than your claim is worth. This is why it is critical that you gather as much evidence as you can. Strong evidence is key in being able to negotiate with an insurance company.

What Kind of Compensation Can I Recover for My Injuries? 

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident in Maryland, you may be entitled to financial compensation, depending on the individual circumstances of your case. Some of the damages that you may be able to recover include medical bills and any other ongoing medical costs, such as physical therapy or rehab. You may also be entitled to financial compensation based on pain and suffering, loss of future earning capacity, loss of enjoyment in life, and emotional trauma.

Bike accidents and their resulting injuries can be painful and leave deep emotional scars. You need legal representation that understands the mental anguish you may be suffering. If your injury is serious enough, you most likely have lost time at work and are concerned as to how you will provide for your family, especially if you have small children and other financial obligations. All of the stress that you are going through can be overwhelming, to say the least.

The bicycle accident lawyers with the Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P. A., have managed bicycle accident cases and have a proven history when it comes to dealing with insurance companies. We are committed to fighting for justice for you or a family member who has been injured. If you would like to discuss your case, contact us by calling (410) 484-0400 and schedule a free consultation and case review. We look forward to serving you.