Flagstaff Bike & Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Effective & Compassionate Representation for the Wrongfully Injured in Prescott, Sedona & Phoenix
Walking and cycling are among the healthiest, most affordable, and most environmentally friendly methods of transportation. Tragically, these are also among the deadliest. When a motor vehicle collides with an individual traveling by foot or by bicycle, it is the latter who tends to suffer the most severe injuries—even though these collisions tend to be the fault of the motorist.
Cars, motorcycles, and other types of vehicles are much bigger, heavier, and travel at faster speeds than bicycles. Furthermore, drivers and passengers in automobiles are protected by seatbelts, airbags, and crash-resistant car doors and frames. Unfortunately, all this means that bicyclists and pedestrians typically suffer far more severe injuries than others involved in the accident.
This can leave accident victims with costly medical bills and long-term injuries in the most severe cases. If you or someone you love has been seriously injured or killed in a bicycle or pedestrian accident in the Flagstaff area, you deserve justice.
At Evans Group Law, our team of bike and pedestrian accident lawyers is compassionate, effective, and personable. Founding attorney Erin Evans brings her unique strengths and perspectives to each case and finds the best solution for each unique client. Reach out to our firm today to learn more about your legal rights and how we can help.
Injured in a Flagstaff bicycle accident? Contact us now at (928) 589-0020 for a free case evaluation and learn how we can assist you. Se habla Español.
What Are the Common Bicycle & Pedestrian Accident Injuries?
Pedestrians and cyclists often travel with little to no protection from motor vehicles. Even with the proper safety gear, such as helmets and reflective clothing, bicyclists are relatively unprotected in the event of a motor vehicle collision.
Some of the most common types of injuries that result from bicycle and pedestrian accidents include:
- Accidental limb amputation
- Broken bones, including multiple fractures
- Internal organ damage and bleeding
- Road rash and burns
- Serious cuts, scrapes, and lacerations
- Spinal cord, neck, and back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Wrongful death
These and other common bicycle and pedestrian accident injuries often require extensive medical care, including both immediate emergency attention and ongoing—sometimes lifelong—treatment. The cost of treating these injuries can be exorbitant.
Compounded with lost income/wages from time taken off work to receive medical care, as well as lost future income in instances where injuries prevent the victim from returning to work, the total cost of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming.
What Are Common Causes of Bike & Pedestrian Accidents?
Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that in the year 2019, 6,205 pedestrians and 846 bicyclists were killed in traffic accidents nationwide. Many more are seriously injured in accidents in each. Our bike and pedestrian accident lawyers in Flagstaff fight for our clients who have suffered injuries in all types of accidents.
Pedestrian and bicycle accidents are often caused by motorists who:
- Fail to yield to cyclists and pedestrians at crosswalks
- Get distracted by cellphones, eating, and more while behind the wheel
- Don’t stop for school busses and other traffic signals
- Drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
- Turn without looking for pedestrians or cyclists
The Importance of Bicycle Helmets and Safety Gear
Cycling is an excellent way to stay active and reduce your carbon footprint, but it's essential to prioritize safety. Proper safety gear can significantly reduce the severity of injuries in the event of an accident.
Key safety gear includes:
- Helmets: A properly fitted helmet is one of the most important pieces of equipment. Helmets protect your head from serious injuries, such as skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), in case of falls or collisions.
- Knee and Elbow Pads: These help protect joints from abrasions, fractures, or dislocations in the event of a fall.
- Reflective Clothing: Wearing bright, reflective clothing makes cyclists more visible to drivers, especially in low-light conditions. This can prevent accidents caused by poor visibility, particularly at night or in foggy weather.
- Gloves and Protective Wear: Gloves can protect hands from road rash and provide a better grip on handlebars. Protective clothing, such as padded shorts, can reduce injury severity from falls.
It is important to ensure that the protections we use are well made to ensure greater safety. By using these safety elements, cyclists can minimize the risk of serious injuries, making each ride safer and more enjoyable.
Injured in a Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident? – Contact Evans Group Law today at (928) 589-0020 for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.
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How to Collect Evidence After a Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident
After a bicycle or pedestrian accident, gathering evidence is crucial for building a strong case. The more information you have, the better your chances of securing compensation. Here’s what to do:
- Take Photos: Capture pictures of the scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Collect Witness Information: Speak to bystanders and get their contact details. Their testimony can support your version of events.
- Obtain Medical Records: Seek medical treatment immediately, even for minor injuries. Keep all records and bills related to your treatment.
- File a Police Report: If the authorities are involved, make sure to get a copy of the report for your case.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep your clothing, helmet, and bike as evidence, especially if they were damaged during the accident.
These steps can help build your case and ensure you’re properly compensated for your injuries.
The Role of Traffic Laws in Preventing Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents
Traffic laws play a significant role in keeping cyclists and pedestrians safe. These laws are designed to protect non-motorized travelers and reduce accidents on the road.
Important traffic laws include:
- Right of Way: Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks, and drivers must stop for them. Cyclists often have specific lanes or rights of way to follow, too.
- Speed Limits: Speed limits are crucial in preventing accidents. Motorists who drive too fast may not have enough time to stop for cyclists or pedestrians.
- Driving Under the Influence: Driving while intoxicated increases the likelihood of accidents. Laws strictly penalize drivers who cause accidents while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Turning and Yielding: Drivers must check for cyclists and pedestrians when turning or changing lanes.
Violating these traffic laws can result in serious accidents. Efforts are underway to improve road infrastructure, such as creating more bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly spaces, to reduce the risk of injury for those on foot or on bikes. Understanding and following these laws can help prevent accidents and save lives.
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“Evans Group was such a valuable asset when I was injured when an uninsured driver smashed into my car! Erin Evans helped me get the maximum compensation for my injury, and was very kind and easy to get ahold of when I needed to talk to her.”- June C.
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I highly recommend. Erin Evans is an amazing lawyer. High ethics, integerity and knows the law. I am very thankful for her insight.
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Contact Us Today for Your Free, No Obligation Case Evaluation
When you or someone you care about has been wrongfully injured or killed by the negligent actions of another party, it is your right to receive compensation to cover any expenses you incurred as a result.
Contact Evans Group Law today for a comprehensive case review with our dedicated Flagstaff bicycle & pedestrian accident attorneys. Se habla Español.