Pedestrian and Bicycle Accident Attorneys

Protecting Your Rights After Being Hit by a Car

Being involved in a pedestrian or bicycle accident can be a life-changing experience, often resulting in serious injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. Whether you were hit by a car while walking down the street or while riding your bike, the aftermath of such an incident can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your next steps. At Folkman Law, we understand your challenges and are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of personal injury law to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

The Prevalence of Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents

Pedestrian and bicycle accidents are unfortunately common, especially in busy urban areas and intersections. These accidents are often caused by negligent drivers who fail to yield the right of way, are distracted, or are speeding. The results can be catastrophic, leading to severe injuries or even death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022, 7,522 pedestrians were killed, and more than 67,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide.

Understanding Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents occur when a person on foot is struck by a motor vehicle. These accidents can happen in various settings, including crosswalks, sidewalks, parking lots, and even in residential areas. The injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents are often severe due to the lack of protection pedestrians have compared to occupants of a vehicle. Common injuries include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries.

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are less likely to notice pedestrians crossing the street.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in the event of a collision.
• Failure to yield: Drivers who fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections are a leading cause of accidents.
• Impaired driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a significant risk to pedestrians.
• Poor visibility: Accidents are more likely to occur in low-light conditions or during inclement weather when visibility is reduced.

Understanding Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents occur when a cyclist is struck by a motor vehicle. Like pedestrians, cyclists are vulnerable on the road due to the lack of protection their mode of transportation provides. Even with helmets and other safety gear, cyclists can suffer serious injuries when involved in a collision with a car. Common injuries in bicycle accidents include head injuries, fractures, spinal injuries, and road rash.

Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can be caused by many of the same factors that contribute to pedestrian accidents, including:

• Distracted driving: Drivers who are not paying attention may fail to see a cyclist sharing the road.
• Failure to yield: Drivers who do not yield the right of way to cyclists at intersections or when making turns are a common cause of accidents.
• Dooring: This occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, causing a collision.
• Unsafe lane changes: Drivers who do not check their blind spots or signal before changing lanes can collide with a cyclist.
• Speeding: High speeds increase the likelihood and severity of accidents involving cyclists.

The Impact of Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents

The injuries sustained in pedestrian and bicycle accidents can be devastating, often requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. In addition to physical injuries, victims may experience emotional trauma, anxiety, and a decreased quality of life. The financial impact can also be significant, with medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses adding to the stress of recovery.

At Folkman Law, we understand the challenges you face after being involved in a pedestrian or bicycle accident. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you need to cover your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

What to Do After a Pedestrian or Bicycle Accident

If you have been hit by a car while walking or cycling, it is important to take certain steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve:

1. Seek medical attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Report the accident: Call the police and file a report. This documentation will be important when filing a personal injury claim.
3. Gather evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bicycle or personal belongings. Get contact information from witnesses who saw the accident.
4. Avoid making statements: Be cautious about what you say at the scene and afterward, especially to insurance companies. Do not admit fault or downplay your injuries.
5. Contact an experienced attorney: A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

How Folkman Law Can Help

At Folkman Law, our experienced personal injury attorneys are committed to helping victims of pedestrian and bicycle accidents get the justice they deserve. We understand the complexities of these cases and will work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf. Here’s how we can help:

• Thorough investigation: We will conduct a comprehensive investigation of the accident, gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and working with experts to build a strong case.
• Negotiation with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
• Representation in court: If your case goes to trial, our skilled attorneys will represent you in court, fighting for the maximum compensation possible.
• Personalized support: We understand the emotional and physical toll these accidents can take. Our team is here to provide compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process.

Conclusion

Pedestrian and bicycle accidents can have life-altering consequences, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. If you’ve been hit by a car while walking or cycling, the experienced attorneys at Folkman Law are here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you need to recover. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring that justice is served.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about how we can assist you. Your path to recovery starts with Folkman Law—where your rights and well-being are our top priority.