Posted On 22, May 2018

Should You Sue After a Michigan Bicycle Accident?

Dedicated bicyclists can be found on Michigan roads throughout the year. The warmth of the spring and summer months and the desire to be outside make this method of transportation and exercise even more popular, and more dangerous. There is an increase in the potential for a Michigan bicycle accident with more cyclists on the road, inexperienced bicyclists, and impatient drivers. The question is: Can you always sue after a bike accident with a motor vehicle?

Can You Sue After a Michigan Bicycle Accident?

A bicyclist is at an immense disadvantage next to a car or truck and being involved in any sort of collision with a motor vehicle puts them in great danger of severe injury. Getting compensation from the insurance company of the motorist who was involved in your accident can be a challenge. It is essential that you do not communicate with any insurance company before speaking with your Michigan bike lawyer. Your lawyer will do the negotiating on your behalf, and be on guard for any underhanded methods of gathering information that insurance companies may employ to use against you later.

If you are not compensated by insurance, you may wish to file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver. Even if you as the cyclist were partially at-fault for your accident, it is still possible to pursue a claim. Your Michigan bike lawyer will advise you about the best road forward so that you end up with the best possible financial outcome to cover your injuries, medical costs, and lost wages.

Causes of Bike Accidents in Michigan

The most common causes of a bike-car accident include negligence, on the part of the driver or cyclist or both, and poor road conditions.

Drivers put themselves and cyclists at risk through:

Distracted driving.
Cell phone usage.
Not looking out for cyclists.
Refusing to share the road.
Intoxication.
Unsafe speeds.
Carelessness.

Cyclists can put themselves at risk through:

Poor visibility markers, especially at night.
Cell phone usage.
Riding while listening to music.
Not looking out for motorists.
Riding too fast.
Failing to follow the rules of the road.
Inexperience.

Motorists often hit cyclists in a crosswalk, when they’re turning and cut the cyclist off, by opening their car door in a bicyclist’s path, and rear-ending a cyclist because of distracted driving.

Talk to a Bike Accident Lawyer

May is National Bike Month, which is an excellent time to remind cyclists and motorists to follow the rules of the road and respect each other’s mode of transportation. Bicyclists are expected to honor the same driving laws as motor vehicles, but accidents still happen, and the damage can be severe.

Consult with a Michigan bike accident lawyer to learn more getting compensation for your medical bills and suffering. Contact Thurswell Law for a free consultation with one of our experienced, knowledgeable, and successful attorneys. We do not charge any fees unless you collect. Call (248) 354-2222 today.