Tucson Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Bicycle accidents involving motor vehicles may lead to life-altering injuries, especially for cyclists who lack the physical protection that cars provide. As a result, injured bicyclists are often left dealing with serious injuries, extended recovery periods, and overwhelming medical expenses. In many cases, injuries may make it challenging to return to work right away, creating financial hardship during an already difficult time.

With the assistance of a skilled Tucson bicycle accident lawyer, an injured cyclist can recover maximum compensation for injuries and damages incurred.

Common Injuries Sustained in Cycling Crashes

Injuries from bicycle accidents may vary widely in severity. While some cyclists may walk away with only minor injuries, others may suffer devastating trauma depending on factors such as vehicle speed, area of impact, helmet use, and the nature of the impact during the incident. Some of the most frequently reported injuries after a vehicle-bike collision include but are not limited to:

• Road rash
• Head trauma
• Broken bones
• Facial injuries
• Internal trauma
• Spinal cord injuries
• Limb loss or amputations
• Scarring or disfigurement
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Bicycle accident injuries may range in severity from minor to life-threatening and often require emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. In tragic cases where the injuries prove fatal, the decedent’s surviving family members may have grounds for a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. A compassionate bicycle accident lawyer can help Tucson families seek justice and financial compensation for their loss.

Proving Liability in a Bike Collision Case

Establishing liability is an important part of any bodily injury claim for a cycling crash. To secure compensation, the injured cyclist must prove that the other party was responsible for causing the bike collision. Proving fault requires clear and compelling evidence that demonstrates how negligence played a role in the incident. An experienced Tucson bicycle accident lawyer can build a strong case by using various forms of evidence, including:

• Police reports that document the incident, including any citations issued, driver behavior, and responding officer observations.
• Medical records that connect the injuries directly to the cycling crash and help demonstrate the severity of the injuries sustained.
• Photographs and video footage from the crash site, including traffic camera recordings or surveillance from nearby businesses or residences.
• Expert witness testimony, such as reports from accident reconstruction specialists or medical experts who can clarify how the injuries occurred.
• Eyewitness statements from those who observed the incident firsthand; in some cases, these statements may be notarized for credibility and admissibility.

Collecting and preserving evidence as early as possible is important, as memories fade and physical evidence may be lost over time. A dedicated bike collision attorney will ensure that all evidence is documented and presented effectively, strengthening the claim and improving the chances of a successful outcome on behalf of the client. To get started today, schedule a free consultation by phone or fill out an online contact form.

What Happens if the At-Fault Driver in a Cycling Crash Has No Auto Insurance?

In many Tucson bicycle accident cases, the responsible driver may not have sufficient liability coverage–or any insurance at all. This situation may complicate the claims process and make it difficult for injured cyclists to recover damages. In Arizona, injured cyclists may still have options even if the at-fault driver has no auto insurance or carries the minimum coverage limits required by state law.

Depending on the facts and circumstances of the case, an injured cyclist may fall back on their auto insurance policy for protection if it is proven that the at-fault party has insufficient or no liability coverage. Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may help cover injuries and losses when the at-fault party lacks auto insurance or has insufficient coverage for damages incurred.

Challenges may arise when the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured and the injured cyclist does not have their own auto insurance. Fortunately, if the injured cyclist lives with a relative who carries UM/UIM coverage on their car insurance policy, that coverage may apply to the vehicle-bike collision. An experienced cycling crash attorney can carefully evaluate each case, identify all potential sources of financial recovery, and work diligently to secure the maximum compensation possible.

Greater Duty of Care Toward Children on Bikes

Drivers have an obligation to operate their vehicles with caution around all bicyclists–but that duty of care is greater when children are involved. Because children are less predictable and may not fully understand the rules of the road or recognize potential dangers, motorists are held to a higher standard and are expected to exercise a greater duty of care when a child is riding a bike.

Courts recognize that children may ride a bicycle against the flow of traffic, dart into the street, or make sudden movements without warning. As a result, drivers must anticipate these abrupt behaviors and take proactive steps to avoid bicycle accidents. This includes slowing down in residential areas, near parks, schools, and bike paths, and always being prepared to make a sudden stop if a child cyclist is nearby.

When a driver fails to exercise due care and a child is injured in a cycling crash, the motorist may be held liable for damages incurred. An experienced Tucson bicycle accident attorney can help families understand their rights and recover maximum compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and long-term care if needed. To learn more, contact our law office by phone or online to schedule a free case review.

Statute of Limitations for Injury Claims in Arizona

In Arizona, injured cyclists must be aware of the strict time limits for filing an injury claim. A.R.S. 12-542 allows a two-year time limit from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit in civil court if a settlement is not reached. If a case is not filed within this period, the injured cyclist may lose the right to recover damages. To avoid missing this important deadline, it is important to contact an experienced Tucson bicycle accident attorney immediately.

Contact a Tucson Bicycle Accident Lawyer for Assistance

Cyclists injured in bike collisions in Tucson or elsewhere in Arizona should not have to face the challenges alone. Work with a skilled Tucson bicycle accident attorney who can support you throughout the legal process. Schedule a free consultation at (602) 777-3300. Our law office is dedicated to serving clients throughout Arizona, providing personalized support to protect their rights and secure the maximum compensation they deserve.