Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Charleston, WV
Were You Hurt While Riding Your Bike?
When the driver of a car or truck fails to yield to a bicyclist, it is the person on the bike who suffers a serious injury. Sadly, the person on the bike is often a child.
Bicyclists have the same rights as drivers of motor vehicles. Many accidents occur not because the biker did anything wrong, but because the driver of the four-wheeled vehicle failed to follow the rules of the road.
The following are examples of negligence that can make a driver liable in an accident involving a bike:
- Failure to yield to a bike at an intersection
- Rear-ending a bike
- Opening the door of a parked car in front of a bike (also known as dooring)
- Clipping a bike when passing
- Hitting a bike in a bike lane
- Hitting a bike in a school zone or playground area where drivers should be watchful for children entering the roadway
Even if the accident was partially your fault, you can still recover compensation if you were not 50% or more at fault.
West Virginia Bicycle Laws
Helmet Laws
Children under the age of 15 are required to wear helmets. If your child wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, you may be wondering whether you can still file a personal injury claim. There is actually nothing in effect that would cause this to be factored in to any damages awarded. It does not classify as contributory negligence.
Other Bicycle Laws
Cyclists and drivers have similar responsibilities on the road. However, cyclists must also:
- Use a seat that is permanent and attached
- Carry the number of people on it that it was intended for
- Remain unattached to any vehicles
- Travel in the bike lane or as close to the right hand side as possible, with exceptions being made for passing, turning, or avoiding a hazard
- Avoid carrying anything on handlebars that can prevent proper steering
- Use a bright light (with certain specifications) at night on the front of their bike and a red reflector on the back
Speak to a Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
Our first goal in any accident case is to help you receive the best medical care to make the fullest possible recovery. Secondly, we will seek maximum compensation from the party responsible for the accident.
Our attorneys are known for our sensitive and caring approach to representing injured children. We often negotiate structured settlements, which can help ensure that money is there for your child’s future needs.
Call us at (304) 345-6789 or message us for experienced representation.
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We represent clients across West Virginia and surrounding areas, providing compassionate client service and relentless advocacy in and out of the courtroom.
Call us 304-345-6789 or
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