Philadelphia Bicycle Accident Attorneys
Bicycle Accidents
Every year, bicycle accidents cause thousands of injuries on Pennsylvania's roadways and byways and lead to millions of dollars in claims and damages. Rules for how automobiles and bicycles are supposed to interact on the road are often incredibly complicated, and proving liability can involve significant legal detective work. Bicycle accidents are more likely to end in serious injury or death than are auto accidents. However, a number of factors can influence the likelihood that a particular accident will lead to serious injury. These factors included:
- How fast the cyclist and driver were going
- The angle at which the collision occurred
- Whether or not the cyclist was wearing a helmet and/or other protective gear
- Whether the accident occurred at night or at twilight
- Whether the accident occurred in bad weather, particularly sleety or icy conditions
Bike accident injuries can run the gamut from minor scrapes and bruises to death. Common injuries include damage to the spinal cord or legs, concussions, soft tissue injuries, and bleeding and damage to internal organs. According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration survey conducted earlier in the decade, we have made some progress in making cycling a safer activity. The number of fatalities, for instance, has dropped from a high of more than 1,000 in 1975 to just a little over 700 in 2002. That said, since children and young adults tend to use bicycles far more than do adults and senior citizens, young Americans bear the brunt of the damage. Children account for more than 50 percent of bike collision fatalities, and estimates suggest that over a million American kids get hurt in bike accidents every year.
Connect with the competent attorneys of Cherry Fieger & Marciano, LLP today to deal with your Pennsylvania bicycle accident liability claim. Take advantage of a free phone or in-person consultation with one of our lawyers by e-mailing us or calling to set an appointment at 1-888-684-7192.