Fresno Bicycle Injury Lawyers

Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Fresno

Bicycling is a popular mode of transportation in Fresno, California, offering an eco-friendly and healthy alternative to traditional means of commuting. However, it is not exempt from accidents.

Common causes of bicycle accidents include:

Motorist Negligence

Many bicycle accidents occur due to negligent drivers. This includes distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield in bike lanes, or not properly checking blind spots before turning or changing lanes.

Dooring Accidents

Dooring accidents happen when a driver or passenger in a parked car opens their door without checking for approaching cyclists, resulting in a collision between the cyclist and the open door.

Unsafe Road Conditions

Poorly maintained roads, potholes, uneven surfaces, and debris can pose hazards to cyclists. These conditions can cause a cyclist to lose control of their bike or be thrown off balance, resulting in an accident.

Cyclist Error

Sometimes, bicycle accidents occur due to mistakes made by the cyclists themselves. This can include running red lights or stop signs, riding against traffic, or not following proper signaling and lane positioning.

Lack of Bicycle Infrastructure

The absence of dedicated bicycle lanes, inadequate signage, and a lack of safe intersections can increase the risk of accidents for cyclists. Without proper infrastructure, cyclists may have to share the road with vehicles, leading to potential collisions.

Impaired Driving

Intoxicated motorists pose a significant danger to cyclists. Alcohol or drug impairment can impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to share the road safely with cyclists. 

Opening Car Doors in Traffic

When drivers open their car doors without checking for oncoming cyclists, it can lead to severe accidents. This often happens in congested urban areas with parked cars lining the streets.

Poor Visibility

Low light conditions, such as during dusk or at night, increase the risk of accidents. Without proper reflective gear or lights on their bicycles, cyclists become less visible to motorists, heightening the chances of collisions.

Aggressive Driving Behaviors

Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, speeding, or sudden lane changes, can endanger cyclists. These actions can startle or intimidate bicycle riders and lead to accidents.

Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents

Bicycling is one of the simplest, fun, and economical ways to travel.  It is also a recreational activity enjoyed by people of all ages. However, it also comes with certain risks. From fatal injuries to simple scratches, bike injuries can have significant physical, emotional, and financial impacts on the individuals involved.

Head Injuries

Head injuries are one of the most severe and potentially life-threatening injuries in bicycle accidents. These can range from concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) to skull fractures. Wearing a properly fitted helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries.

Fractures and Bone Injuries

Bicycle accidents often result in fractures and bone injuries. The most commonly affected areas are the arms, legs, wrists, collarbones, and ribs. Fractures can vary in severity, from simple fractures that require casting to more complex fractures that may require surgical intervention.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries include bruises, sprains, strains, and road rash (abrasions caused by contact with the road surface). These can range from mild to severe, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Road rash can also lead to skin infections if not properly treated.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Bicycle accidents can sometimes result in spinal cord injuries, which can have long-lasting and life-altering effects. These can lead to partial or complete paralysis, affecting motor function, sensation, and bodily functions.

Facial Injuries

Facial injuries are common in bicycle accidents, especially when the cyclist’s face comes into contact with the ground, vehicles, or other objects. These injuries can include lacerations, fractures, dental injuries, and damage to the eyes or nose.

Internal Injuries

Bicycle accidents can cause internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. These can affect organs such as the lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, and intestines. Internal bleeding and organ damage can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Psychological Trauma

Bike accidents can result in psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and emotional distress. These can significantly impact a person’s emotional well-being and quality of life.

Other injuries can also lead to neck, back, and dental injuries. In the most severe cases, bicycle accidents can result in fatalities. Collisions with vehicles or severe head injuries can be fatal, emphasizing the importance of road safety and protective measures.

What Should I Do If I Get Involved in A Bicycle Accident in Fresno?

If you find yourself involved in a bicycle accident in Fresno, these steps can help protect your well-being and ensure your rights are upheld. 

Prioritize Your Safety

Check yourself for injuries and, if possible, move to a safe location away from traffic.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you believe your injuries are minor, seek medical care promptly. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical professional can evaluate your condition and provide necessary treatment. Additionally, securing medical records of your injuries will strengthen your potential legal claims.

Contact Authorities

Call the police or emergency services to report the accident. They will document the incident and create an official record, which can be valuable for insurance claims or legal proceedings. Secure a police report when possible.

Gather Information

This includes obtaining the contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers of any involved parties. If there were witnesses, try to obtain their names and contact information as well.

Document the Scene

Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including the position of the vehicles, the condition of the road, and any visible injuries. This visual evidence can be crucial for supporting your version of events and proving liability.

Consult with a Bicycle Accident Attorney

Consult with an experienced bicycle injury lawyer in Fresno. They can assess the circumstances, review your rights, and guide you through the legal process, helping you to get the compensation you may be entitled to.

A personal injury attorney specializing in bicycle accidents can handle the communication and filing of bicycle accident claims with the insurance company. 

Each bicycle accident case is unique, and the steps you take immediately after the incident can significantly impact the outcome. Seeking appropriate legal advice can help accident victims better navigate the aftermath of bicycle accidents in Fresno and ensure their rights are protected.