When a bicyclist in Cincinnati is injured by an at-fault driver, a Cincinnati bicycle accident lawyer can make a big difference. Our personal injury law firm has decades of experience representing bicycle accident victims. Call us for a free consultation.
In this Article
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle accident, move to a safe location, call 911, and keep the police report. It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately (you may have hidden injuries) and save medical records. Make sure to gather evidence such as photos, police reports, and witness statements. Don’t speak to a driver’s insurance company without first calling a lawyer to discuss your legal claim.
Do I Need Cincinnati Bicycle Accident Attorneys?
Yes. In Ohio, motorists are required to exercise reasonable care around pedestrians, oncoming cyclists, and cyclists in the same lane. Bicycles are considered vehicles under Ohio law and have the same rights as larger vehicles. If someone else’s negligence caused your accident, leaving you with severe injuries, lost wages, and high medical bills, an experienced attorney can help you win a fair settlement.
We take care of every aspect of bike accident cases. We’ll investigate the accident scene and gather evidence, which can disappear quickly. Because insurance companies may try to offer a low settlement, we can handle the insurance claim, examine insurance coverage, identify the parties involved, and prove negligence.
Common Causes of Bicycle Crashes in Cincinnati, OH
Road conditions such as potholes, cracks, and debris can contribute to bicycle accidents by causing cyclists to lose control of their bikes, but a leading cause of collisions is driver negligence. Many bicycle accidents happen due to a car driver’s distracted driving, reckless driving, failing to follow traffic rules, or opening car doors into a bike lane (dooring accidents). If you’ve been hit while riding in designated bike lanes, you may have a case.
Cincinnati bicycle accident claims often involve unique issues such as right-hook accidents that occur when drivers turn right across cyclists’ paths. If you (as a bike rider) were hit by a motor vehicle and have been suffering injuries, seek legal counsel. Our experienced team will help you pursue maximum compensation no matter how the collision occurred.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries in Cincinnati, Ohio
Bicyclists are at a higher risk of injury and death in Cincinnati bicycle accidents compared to occupants of motor vehicles due to the cyclist’s lack of protection and smaller size. Bike riders can suffer bike accident injuries, even if they wear helmets; nevertheless, wearing a helmet can reduce brain injury risk by 88%. A bike accident lawyer can help after you have serious injuries, including broken bones, head injuries, traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, spinal cord damage, road rash, catastrophic injuries, and even fatalities (which can be considered wrongful death).
What If I’m Partially to Blame?
Cincinnati bicycle accident victims should avoid admitting fault, as statements can be used against them later. But Ohio’s comparative negligence rule means you can still get compensation even if you are partially at fault as long as you’re 50% or less at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What Is My Bicycle Accident Case Worth?
An experienced bicycle accident lawyer can evaluate a claim by assessing your damages; Ohio has no cap on economic damages for bicycle accidents. Your lawyer will take into account your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and more. An accident victim may seek compensation for damages like medical bills, future medical treatment, pain and suffering, emotional distress, property damage, and other financial losses.
How Long Will It Take to Receive My Settlement?
Most claims settle within weeks or months, but complex personal injury lawsuits can take longer—especially if negotiations or court proceedings are involved. We’ll work hard to move your personal injury case forward as efficiently as possible, all while fighting to get you fair compensation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Claim in Ohio?
Ohio law imposes a two-year statute of limitations on most personal injury claims, meaning injured Cincinnati cyclists have two years from the date the bicycle accident happened to file a claim. Exceptions may apply, so after you seek immediate medical attention, consult a skilled Cincinnati bicycle accident attorney to pursue full compensation.
Contact Our Cincinnati Personal Injury Law Firm
If you or family members were injured in bike accidents by vehicle owners not following traffic laws in Cincinnati or across the state, contact our legal team to discuss your Cincinnati bike accident case and your legal rights.
Our Cincinnati bicycle accident lawyers have decades of combined legal experience. In our free case evaluation, we’ll review your case, explain the legal process, and answer your questions. We handle the claims process on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no upfront costs.
(312) 223-1700