Kansas City Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you need a Kansas City bicycle accident lawyer, you understand the daily risks cyclists face. Biking in Kansas City can expose you to dangers from traffic, road conditions, and other unforeseen factors that lead to accidents.

As dedicated bicycle accident attorneys, we at Fincher Law are committed to helping you navigate the aftermath of an accident. We are here to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

At Fincher Law, we understand that a bike crash can lead to a number of issues. Our Kansas City bike accident lawyers are here to help you. We advocate for bike accident victims and can negotiate with the insurance company to secure a favorable settlement.

Learn more about bicycle traffic accidents below. Then, contact us to see if you have a strong bicycle accident lawsuit.

What Makes a Bicycle Accident So Dangerous?

Bicycle accidents are particularly dangerous due to bicycles' lack of protection compared to motor vehicles. Cyclists are exposed to direct impacts without the protective enclosure that cars provide. This exposure increases the risk of severe injuries or even wrongful deaths in the event of a collision.

Bicyclists also have to deal with less visibility on the road, which can lead to being overlooked by drivers, especially at intersections or during low-light conditions.

The dynamics of a bicycle accident often involve complex interactions with traffic and road conditions. Cyclists may have to swerve unexpectedly to avoid obstacles, which can lead to crashes if motor vehicles do not maintain a safe distance.

In addition, bicycles' lightweight and speedy nature makes them more susceptible to serious damage and their riders to being thrown off balance. Understanding these risks helps underline the importance of legal protection and expertise in handling such cases.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Kansas City

Bicycle accidents in Kansas City often stem from a combination of traffic congestion, driver negligence, and inadequate cycling infrastructure. These factors contribute to a dangerous environment for cyclists navigating the city. Some of the most common causes of serious injuries in bicycle versus motor vehicle accidents include:

Distracted Driving and Failure to Yield

Many bicycle accidents result from distracted drivers who do not pay attention to their surroundings. When drivers do not yield the right of way to cyclists, particularly at intersections or when making turns, collisions often occur. These accidents can be severe, as cyclists are vulnerable to the full impact of a vehicle.

Poor Road Conditions and Lack of Bike Lanes

Kansas City cyclists frequently face challenges such as potholes, uneven road surfaces, and a lack of dedicated bike lanes. These conditions can force cyclists into closer proximity to cars, increasing the risk of crashes. Proper maintenance and dedicated cycling infrastructure are critical to reducing these risks.

Collisions With Motor Vehicles

Collisions with motor vehicles are among the most serious threats to cyclists. These incidents often occur when drivers misjudge their distance from a cyclist or when they do not check their mirrors for bikes. The size and speed disparity between bicycles and cars can lead to catastrophic injuries for cyclists involved.

Lack of Maintenance

Poorly maintained bicycles can also lead to accidents. Issues like brake failure, worn tires, or defective gears can cause a cyclist to lose control and crash. Regular maintenance is critical to ensure the safety of the bicycle and the rider.

Poor Visibility and Bad Weather

Low visibility conditions, such as fog, rain, or nighttime riding, significantly increase the risk of bicycle accidents. Bad weather can also affect road traction and a cyclist’s ability to maneuver safely. Cyclists and drivers alike must take extra precautions under these conditions to prevent accidents.

Injuries Commonly Sustained in Bicycle Accidents

Below are some of the most common injuries cyclists may experience following an accident:

• Head injuries. These can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries, depending on the impact.
• Road rash. When cyclists fall or are dragged on the pavement, they can suffer severe abrasions known as road rash.
• Broken bones. Arms, legs, and ribs are particularly vulnerable in bike accidents due to the force of impact. Bone fractures can be life-changing injuries.
• Spinal injuries. Spinal cord injuries can be especially severe and may lead to permanent disability.
• Facial and dental injuries. Face-first falls can result in broken jaws, lost teeth, and other serious facial injuries.
• Internal injuries. Internal bleeding and organ damage can occur upon impact, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Neck injuries. Whiplash and other neck injuries can happen because of sudden stops or collisions.
• Lacerations and bruises. Sharp impacts can cause deep cuts and significant bruising over large areas of the body.
• Psychological trauma. Beyond physical injuries, many cyclists experience PTSD or anxiety after an accident.

What Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident?

Being involved in a bicycle accident can be a traumatic and confusing experience, but knowing what steps to take afterward is crucial for your safety and legal protection.

Here’s what you should do after a bicycle accident:

• Check for injuries. Immediately assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away.
• Move to safety. If you can, shift to a safe area away from traffic to prevent further collisions.
• Exchange information. Collect contact and insurance information from all individuals involved, including witnesses.
• Document the scene. Snap a few pictures of the crash scene, your injuries, and any damages to your bike.
• Do not admit fault. Avoid discussing the accident details or admitting fault at the scene.
• Seek medical attention. Visit a healthcare provider to get a full evaluation, even if you feel fine.
• Contact a lawyer. Consult with a Kansas City bicycle accident lawyer to review your legal options and discuss the next steps.

Legal Rights of Cyclists After an Accident

After a bicycle accident, cyclists have the right to demand compensation for their injuries and damages. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. Filing a bike accident claim can help recover these costs and ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable.

Submitting an Insurance Claim

Providing thorough documentation of the accident and your catastrophic injuries is crucial when submitting an insurance claim. This process involves negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.

An experienced bicycle accident lawyer can help work through these negotiations to protect your interests.

Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Driver

If an insurance company does not offer fair compensation, filing a personal injury lawsuit might be necessary. This legal action requires proving that the other party was at fault due to negligence or reckless behavior. A successful lawsuit can cover a broader range of damages than an insurance claim alone.

Compensation for Medical Expenses and Pain and Suffering

Compensation from a bike accident claim or lawsuit can address all medical bills tied to the accident. This includes emergency care, ongoing treatment, and any future medical needs.

Compensation can also be granted for pain and suffering, which covers the mental health issues stemming from the incident.

Understanding Kansas City’s Comparative Fault Rules

Kansas City (Kansas) follows comparative fault rules, which means that if you are found partially at fault for the collision, your compensation may be cut by your percentage of fault.

We only handle Kansas bicycle accident claims. If the percentage of fault on the injured bicyclist in Kansas is 50% or greater, you are not entitled to any recovery.

Understanding how these rules apply to your case is important for setting realistic expectations about the potential compensation.

How a Kansas City Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

After a bicycle accident, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming, especially when you're dealing with injuries. Hiring a Kansas City bicycle accident lawyer can make all the difference in ensuring you get the compensation and support you deserve.

Here’s how a lawyer can help you through this challenging time:

• Expert legal advice. A bicycle accident lawyer provides expert legal advice tailored to the specifics of your case. They know the nuances of local traffic laws and how they apply to cyclists.
• Investigative resources. Lawyers have access to resources for completing in-depth investigations to establish fault and liability in your accident. This includes reconstructing the accident scene and consulting with experts.
• Negotiation skills. Experienced attorneys possess strong negotiation skills that are crucial for dealing with insurance companies. They ensure you receive fair compensation without being lowballed.
• Court representation. If your case goes to court, having a skilled lawyer to represent you is invaluable. They will address all details of the trial, from submitting legal documents to presenting your case to a judge or jury.
• Support through recovery. Your lawyer will handle the legal burdens while you focus on recovery. They provide peace of mind by managing the complexities of your case and keeping you informed throughout the process.

Contact Our Kansas City Bicycle Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

If you've been involved in a bicycle accident in Kansas City, don't hesitate to reach out to Fincher Law for help. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Our experienced bicycle accident attorneys are dedicated to positioning our clients' cases for success.

Contact us today to ensure your rights are protected.