Road Hazards for Bicyclists
Colorado is populated with thousands of cyclists who rely on safe roads and safe drivers for their protection while participating in their sport. Whether for fun, training, or competition, cyclists are part of a substantial community, and they have and deserve the same rights as motor vehicle drivers when on the road.
Bicyclists and Negligent Drivers
Vehicle accidents involving bicyclists can be deadly. All drivers must adhere to the rules of the road, proper etiquette, and common sense. While not every accident between a motor vehicle and a bike is the motor vehicle driver’s fault, it’s typically the cyclist who ends up injured or dead.
Every driver on the road bears responsibility and must always pay attention to their surroundings. Colorado is a beautiful and challenging place to cycle, but it is also especially dangerous. From winding mountainous roads to wildlife distractions to the everyday hustle, bicyclists may find themselves in many precarious situations.
If you’re a cyclist who’s been involved in a collision with a motor vehicle, you may be eligible for damages.
Damages an Injured Cyclist May Be Entitled To
When accidents occur due to another party’s actions or inactions, you may be able to get compensation. Bicycle accidents may include at least one area of the law.
Areas of law that your matter may fall under include:
- Brain trauma
- Vehicle accident
- Personal injury
- Product liability
- Premises liability
- Insurance bad faith
- Wrongful death
Working with a skilled and effective attorney will ensure you get the proper treatment and reliable services throughout your case.
A qualified lawyer will be able to get you damages based on your accident, injuries, and losses.
Damages you may be entitled to include:
- Economic damages: compensation based on lost income and property, as well as bills associated with the accident and any future financial losses
- Non-economic damages: compensation based on pain and suffering, mental stress, physical discomfort, anxiety, depression, and an impacted and reduced quality of life
- Punitive damages: compensation based on the negligent party’s intentionally dangerous actions or disregard for the safety of others
It’s important to note that under Colorado law, a bicyclist riding on a sidewalk or pathway, or going through a crosswalk on the street, is considered a pedestrian. Pedestrian and vehicle accidents can also occur, and a lawyer should be called in this case, especially if considerable damage or injury has occurred.
Contact Us
An injury sustained due to a driver’s negligence or because of a government agency’s failure to address serious road hazards may make you eligible to file for compensation for your injuries and suffering.
To discuss your options in further detail with a knowledgeable and reliable legal professional, contact one of our bicycle accident attorneys at Hull & Zimmerman today. (303) 647-9262