Riding a bicycle brings a great deal of pleasure to many people across North Carolina. Bicyclists enjoy riding because of its convenience, health benefits, and cost-effectiveness. However, the vulnerability of bicycle riders makes them uniquely susceptible to the possibility of sustaining catastrophic or even life-threatening injuries in a crash. Victims can face debilitating pain, forced time off work, and overwhelming medical bills.
If you have suffered injuries in a bike accident someone else caused, our North Carolina bicycle accident lawyers are ready to help you seek compensation for all your losses. The skilled NC bike accident lawyers at Poisson, Poisson & Bower, PLLC, have the experience and skills to hold the at-fault party accountable for your injuries and maximize your compensation.
Call us today or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation with our bicycle accident law firm in North Carolina.
Why Our Firm Is the Right Choice for Your Bike Accident Case
At Poisson, Poisson & Bower, PLLC, we bring to your case over 40 years of experience handling bicycle accident claims in North Carolina. Our dedicated attorneys have a reputation as assertive advocates for accident victims across North Carolina.
We understand the unique challenges bicyclists face both on the road and in the legal system. That’s why we’re committed to providing:
- Personalized attention – We build relationships with our clients, ensuring you receive the care and support you need throughout your case.
- Extensive resources – Our team works with medical experts and accident reconstructionists to build the most robust possible case for you.
- Skilled and effective support – We have a history of securing maximum compensation for North Carolina bicycle injury claims, whether through skillful negotiation or aggressive litigation.
- Availability – Our attorneys are directly accessible to address your concerns and keep you informed about your case’s progress.
North Carolina Bike Crash Facts and Statistics
North Carolina sees far more bicycle accidents than many residents might imagine. During a recent five-year period, more than 100 bicyclists lost their lives in traffic accidents in North Carolina. More than 4,000 individuals suffered injuries in bicycle accidents within that same timeframe.
The North Carolina bicycle crash lawyers at Poisson, Poisson & Bower, PLLC, understand that each accident among these statistics represents a story of pain, loss, and frustration. Our team is here to make sure you are more than a statistic. With us on your side, you can optimize your chances of securing a brighter future.
Causes and Types of Bicycle Accidents in North Carolina
Bicycle accidents in North Carolina often result from such factors as driver negligence and hazardous road conditions. Common types of bicycle accidents include:
- Dooring incidents – When a driver or passenger opens a car door into a cyclist’s path
- Right hook collisions – Drivers turning right without checking for cyclists in their blind spot
- Left cross accidents – Motorists turning left and failing to yield to oncoming cyclists
- Rear-end collisions – Distracted or speeding drivers hitting cyclists from behind
- Intersection crashes – Drivers running red lights or stop signs and colliding with cyclists
- Sideswipe accidents – Motorists passing too closely to cyclists, causing them to lose balance
Understanding these accident types helps us identify liable parties and build stronger cases for our clients.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycle accidents involving cars often cause severe injuries due to the cyclist’s lack of protection. Some of the most common serious injuries from bike accidents include:
- Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Fractures and broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and collarbone
- Spinal cord injuries, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis
- Soft tissue injuries, such as road rash, cuts, and deep lacerations
- Internal organ damage, often caused by blunt force trauma to the torso
- Facial injuries, including dental damage and eye injuries
- Psychological trauma such as PTSD or anxiety related to cycling or road use
- Fatal injuries
Bike accident injuries can have long-lasting effects on a cyclist’s life, potentially requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. An NC bike accident lawyer at Poisson, Poisson & Bower, PLLC, can fight to help you receive compensation covering both your immediate and long-term needs following a bicycle accident due to someone else’s carelessness.
How NC Traffic Laws Apply to Bicycle Accidents
North Carolina law treats bicycles on public roadways as vehicles, granting cyclists the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. Cyclists must follow traffic signals, ride in the same direction as traffic, and use hand signals when turning. Motorists must give cyclists at least two feet of clearance when passing. They may cross double yellow lines to do so safely.
Cyclists under 16 must wear helmets, and all riders need proper lighting at night. Understanding these laws is crucial when determining fault for a bike accident.
Determining Liability for a Bicycle Accident in North Carolina
Determining liability in bicycle accidents hinges on proving negligence. This involves showing that a driver, cyclist, or other party failed to exercise sufficient care, leading to the accident. North Carolina follows the doctrine of contributory negligence, meaning if the cyclist is found even slightly at fault for an accident, they may be barred from recovering compensation.
A North Carolina bicycle accident attorney at our firm will carefully investigate your case, gathering evidence to establish liability and protect your right to compensation.
Types of Compensation for Bike Crash Losses
Victims of bicycle accidents may be eligible for various types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses, including current, ongoing, and future treatment costs
- Lost wages, including loss of earning capacity
- Physical pain, discomfort, and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment and quality of life
- Property damage, including bicycle repair or replacement
How Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers Can Help You
The dedicated North Carolina bicycle accident attorneys at Poisson, Poisson & Bower, PLLC, understand how challenging life can become after a bike crash. When you retain our firm, we will thoroughly investigate the accident to recover vital evidence, negotiate with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement, and fight for you in court if necessary.
Let us give you the support and advocacy you need at this challenging time. Contact us today or call us for a free consultation with a North Carolina bicycle accident lawyer.
