bicycle

BICYCLE ACCIDENTS

Mississippi Bicycle Accident Lawyer

The statistics for bicycle accidents are grim, with 53,000 bicycle injuries and 630 bicycle fatalities in 2009.Click here for more information. Research indicates that even these numbers represent only a fraction of bicycle crashes, because very few injuries and accidents are reported as related to bicycle crashes. A multi-ton vehicle versus a human body is never a fair contest, and an unprotected victim on a bicycle is always going to lose.

When a bicyclist is hit by a car or truck, it is almost inevitable that the crash will result in severe or disabling injuries. These injuries can include:

Insurance companies hate bicycle accidents, and one of the main mitigating arguments they raise is that ofcontributory or comparative negligence. This is because accidents are sometimes aggravated by the conduct of the bicyclist, like failing to follow the rules of the road. It is very important in these instances to hire a lawyer who knows personal injury law, and particularly auto – pedestrian and auto – bike accidents, in order to unearth any negligence by the motorist.

Examples motor vehicle negligence which may lead to bicycle accidents include disregarding crossroad signs or signals, passing or lane-change violations, or failure to yield to a bicyclist who is legally in the road. Witness information is also very important in these instances, as it can determine the level of fault of the motorist. A good lawyer will gather witness statements from everyone possible, and will ensure that your chances of recovery are maximized.

Bicycle cases tend to be complex, and the cause of the accident is not always clear. It is therefore very important for your lawyer to go beyond the police report and get to the issues. While he was a JAG for the Marine Corps, Clarence did most of his own investigation work, and this experience pays off time and again for clients of The Guthrie Firm. Clarence will personally interview every individual who witnessed the incident, and will hire the most qualified bicycle experts, medical experts, and specialists needed to ensure your case is presented in the most effective manner possible.

After a serious incident, cyclists should seek immediate medical attention. Try to follow these steps if possible:

  1. You’ve got to get a police report. No matter how minor it may appear at the time. Get that police report, and make sure it’s accurate.
  2. Take pictures of the injured body part immediately after the event.
  3. Document your physical condition and ensure that your medical reports include the accident.
  4. Preservation of evidence is key – do not send your bike to be fixed, leave your clothes unwashed.

The first few hours following an accident are crucial, and if you can return to the scene later and take pictures or look for debris that will be useful. We will help you as necessary, because we will use these as proof in order to maximize damages on your behalf.

Bike accidents can turn your life upside down. Insurance companies will be well represented, and will often try to minimize damages, or simply ignore you. This is why it is very important that you hire a personal injury lawyer with extensive experience in this specialized area of law. Let Clarence analyze your case, and stop worrying about dealing with insurance companies and medical expenses and focus on recovering from your injuries.

Mississippi Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you would like to discuss your bicycle case with us, please call The Guthrie Firm, PLLC at            (601) 991-1099       or contact us online. We are here to help.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Questions:

Return to Main Personal Injury Page