Bicyclists in Denver deserve the right to feel safe on the streets and sidewalks. They have all the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers in Colorado, and they demand respect from those with whom they share the roads. Aggressive, impatient, and negligent drivers can put bicyclists’ lives in danger and increase the possibility of bike crashes. Jordan, Herington & Rowley is here to help injured bicyclists in Denver and can work closely with them in pursuit of maximum compensation. Schedule your free case evaluation with our Denver bicycle accident lawyer today at (303) 465-8733.
Why Choose Jordan, Herington & Rowley?
If you are suffering from the aftermath of a Denver bicycle accident, you should not enter the claims process alone. Having a Denver bicycle accident attorney from Jordan, Herington & Rowley can provide a number of benefits for your case, allowing you to focus on recovery, not paperwork.- Our Denver personal injury lawyers have a deep understanding of Colorado personal injury law ,experience representing Denver residents in bicycle accident claims and expertise when it comes to communicating with insurance companies.
- Our firm has access to a wide range of investigatory resources and expert witnesses who can help build the most compelling case possible.
- We value open, honest communication throughout each step of your case, and we will always inform you of any important updates and how to best prepare.
- Understanding what damages you qualify for can be confusing, and our attorneys will explore every possible avenue of compensation on your behalf.
How Our Denver Bicycle Accident Lawyers Can Help
At Jordan, Herington & Rowley, our Denver bicycle accident attorneys give voices to the victims of personal injury accidents. If this sounds like you after a harmful bike accident, find out how we might be able to help. Our initial consultations with clients are always free, and available 24/7. Request yours today, giving us a few details about your recent bicycle accident. We’ll get back to you right away about your case.Bicycle Accident Statistics in Colorado
Bicycle accidents are unfortunately common in Colorado, including the Denver area. According to the Denver Public Works Transportation & Mobility Division, 322 bicycle accidents occurred on Denver roads in 2012, an increase from 249 in 2011. Some crashes even result in death. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, approximately 20 cyclists died in accidents in Colorado during 2019. These cyclists comprised 3.4% of traffic fatalities that year.What Causes Bicycle Accidents?
Determining the cause of your bike collision is integral to building your bike accident claim. Bicycle collisions can occur due to a number of dangerous driver behaviors, including the following.- A driver turns right, fails to check the road, and collides into you traveling in the bicycle lane.
- A driver of a parked car on the side of a road opens his or her door out into the bike lane, causing you to collide into it.
- A driver crashes into you from behind, causing a rear-end collision.
- A driver makes a left turn in front of you while you are traveling straight, colliding into you.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Injuries in bicycle crashes can range from mild to severe, depending on the circumstances surrounding your injuries and the type of vehicle you collided with. In serious cases, treatment for these injuries can be lengthy and expensive. Some of the most common types of injuries in Colorado bicycle accidents include the following.- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Traumatic brain injury, even if you were wearing a helmet
- Cuts, lacerations, and bruises
- Broken bones
- Neck Injuries
- Internal injuries
- Ruptured discs
- Neurological damage
- Facial fractures and disfigurement
Who Is Liable in Bike Accident Cases?
Determining liability in bicycle accident cases can be difficult. You will need to determine who was at-fault for the accident, who had the right of way at the time of the accident, and the series of events that resulted in the crash. You can hold a driver liable in your bike accident, and a driver could hold you liable as well. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your crash, you may also hold government entities and private companies liable. To prove a bike accident claim, you and your Denver bicycle accident lawyer will need to prove and use evidence to support the following four elements.- The at-fault driver owed you a duty of care at the time of the accident.
- He or she breached that duty of care.
- You suffered injuries as a result of that breach.
- You can claim compensation for your injuries through your personal injury lawsuit.
Damages You Could Receive with a Bike Accident Claim
When our car accident lawyers in Denver encourage you to pursue compensation after a bike accident, it has nothing to do with profits and everything to do with people. Jason Jordan and his team have dedicated their professional lives to helping people with serious injuries and the loved ones of those who don’t survive accidents. You can trust that everything your bike accident lawyer at Jordan, Herington & Rowley tells you is with your best interests in mind – no more, no less. If we say you could be eligible for compensation, we’re referring to a few different types:- Past and future medical bills
- The most common injuries in bike accidents are broken bones, concussions, and abrasions from contact with the asphalt. Treating those injuries can incur large medical expenses. You could be eligible for payment for all of your accident-related medical bills, including for hospital stays, procedures, medications, medical devices, fuel expenses, and any future costs.
- Lost wages
- If you have to miss shifts at work because you’re in the hospital or on the mend, you can seek to recover these losses. In the event that you have a temporary or permanent disability because of your collision, you could also request compensation for lost capacity to earn.
- Pain and suffering
- The Colorado courts allow injured parties to request compensation for non-economic damages such as physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish. A jury will decide the amount of these awards based on the severity and longevity of the injury. Catastrophic and permanent injuries tend to qualify for greater pain and suffering awards.
How to Avoid Being in a Bicycle Accident in Denver, CO
These accidents are terrifying and all-too-common for cyclists. To stay safe from these common accidents, bicycle riders need to:- Always be aware of cars on the road.
- Make sure not to ride your bike while texting or looking at your phone for any reason.
- Follow the one-eared headphone rule – never ride with both of your headphones in at the same time, since you won’t be able to hear if a car is near or honking at you!
- Be conscious of cars behind you as well as in front.
- Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
- Always ride under the assumption that cars can’t see you.
- Use bike lights and reflectors when riding – they can make you safer by 51%!
- Always have a bright, reflective light on the front and back of your bike. Carry back-up batteries if necessary, and never ride in the dark without a light.
- Ride in the designated bicycle lanes.