Drivers of motor vehicles are required to protect the safety of everyone on the road. In addition to people in other vehicles, this includes motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Unfortunately, drivers often fail to act safely, and if they do not fully pay attention to the road or violate traffic laws, they may collide with bicycles. Bicyclists who are struck by a motor vehicle can suffer multiple types of serious injuries. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, contact a personal injury lawyer for help pursuing compensation and holding the negligent driver responsible.
Injuries That May Be Suffered by Bicyclists
Bicyclists have little in the way of protection when compared to people in cars or trucks. When a person is struck by a vehicle, even one that is traveling at a relatively low speed, they can suffer multiple forms of bodily harm, even if they are wearing a helmet. In addition to injuries that occur in the initial impact, a person may also be thrown from their bicycle and strike the ground or other objects. In some cases, a cyclist may suffer additional injuries if the force of a collision pushes them into the path of other vehicles.
The injuries that a bicyclist can suffer after being struck by a motor vehicle may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries – While a helmet may provide some protection for a bicyclist, being struck by a vehicle or landing on the ground may still cause a person to suffer injuries to the head and brain. These injuries may include skull fractures, concussions, or intracranial bleeding. Some victims suffer permanent brain damage.
- Spinal cord injuries – The jolting impact of a vehicle can cause a person’s spine to bend or twist unnaturally. This could lead to fractured vertebrae or a damaged or severed spinal cord. These injuries can lead to chronic back pain, loss of sensation in different parts of the body, or complete paralysis, including paraplegia or quadriplegia.
- Broken bones – Bones throughout the body can be fractured due to the impact between a person’s body and a vehicle or the ground. Commonly fractured bones include the collarbone, arms, wrists, legs, ankles, ribs, or hips. In some cases, broken bones can cause further injuries, such as when a fractured rib punctures a person’s lung, affecting their ability to breathe properly.
- Damage to internal organs – A collision can cause harm to multiple organs and bodily systems. Some organs that are commonly injured in bicycle accidents include the spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and intestines.
- Severe lacerations and bruises – A bicyclist may suffer serious cuts and abrasions, which are commonly known as “road rash.” While these injuries can be painful, they will often be able to heal relatively quickly. However, in some cases, they can lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement, such as when they affect the face and upper body.
Contact Our Green Bay Bicycle Accident Lawyers
At Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd., we can provide you with legal representation following a bicycle accident, helping you understand your best options for receiving financial compensation. We will act quickly to gather and preserve evidence showing that a driver was responsible for your injuries, including obtaining footage from traffic or security cameras, police reports, 911 call recordings, medical records, and statements from witnesses. Contact our Appleton bike accident attorneys today at 920-739-7366 to set up your complimentary consultation.
Sources:
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2001/0515/p2007.html
https://healthcare.utah.edu/the-scope/shows.php?shows=0_10fzrvv2
https://www.cyclingweekly.com/fitness/common-cycling-injuries-349671