Phoenix Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Bike accidents may be emotionally, physically, and financially devastating for cyclists, especially when these crashes cause serious injuries or even death. While many may assume that insurance companies will step in to provide fair compensation, dealing with insurers can be more challenging than expected. Insurance carriers often use defense tactics to minimize payouts to protect profit margins, making it difficult for claimants to receive the financial recovery they deserve. Bicyclists can navigate the claims process with the assistance of an experienced bike injury lawyer.

Unlike the insurer, your Phoenix bicycle accident attorney will always have your best interests at heart and seek the full compensation you deserve.

Statistics on Bicycle-Related Accidents and Injuries

• A total of 1,084 bike riders suffered fatal injuries in motor vehicle collisions in 2022, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
• Approximately 267 cycling crashes occurred in 2020, resulting in 4 deaths and 263 injuries, the City of Phoenix - Street Transportation Department reported.
• Fatal cycling crashes increase during the warmest months of the year, beginning in July and staying high until October, according to the National Safety Council.

Most Common Injuries in Vehicle-Bike Collisions

The use of bicycle safety gear, such as helmets, reflective clothing, flashers, and lights, may decrease the risk of a cycling crash. However, in the event of an accident with a motor vehicle, a bicyclist is likely to suffer serious injuries. Common bike-related injuries include:

• Road rash
• Head trauma
• Broken bones
• Internal trauma
• Spinal cord injuries
• Scarring and disfigurement

Bicycle injuries may require extensive treatment, including diagnostic imaging like X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, surgical management, and more. If you were a bicyclist injured in a recent crash, our skilled Phoenix bike accident lawyers can help. Contact our personal injury law firm for a free case review at our Phoenix office.

Recoverable Losses in a Cycling Crash Injury Claim

An injured cyclist can file a bodily injury claim against the at-fault party who caused the bicycle collision. Through this type of case, the injured bicyclist has the opportunity to seek reimbursement of the following economic and non-economic damages:

• Medical costs where the treatments and associated expenses are proven to be reasonable and necessary
• Lost wages and loss of future earnings if a cycling crash has caused the injured bicyclist to be temporarily or permanently out of work
• Pain and suffering for the mental anguish and discomfort from the physical pain caused by bike accident-related injuries
• Scarring and disfigurement if injuries from a crash are visible and unsightly further causing emotional trauma for the plaintiff
• Out-of-pocket costs like modifications to the home and vehicle to provide necessary accommodations for permanent injury or disability

Handling negotiations with an insurance company while unrepresented may not always be a good idea, particularly in cases where traumatic injuries are involved. That is why it is recommended for injured cyclists to hire a Phoenix bike accident attorney to protect their rights and best interests.

What if the Driver Left the Scene of the Car-Bicycle Accident?

According to the City of Phoenix, a total of 48 hit-and-run bicycle accidents occurred in 2020. In the event that a motorist flees the crash site without properly identifying themselves through exchanged contact and insurance information, there may be recourse available. This will be based on the circumstances of the case. An injured bicyclist or a surviving family member of a deceased bike rider may file an uninsured motorist claim through their auto insurance policy.

UM coverage may be applicable even if attempts at locating the suspect motorist have been exhausted. Remember that there must be clear evidence demonstrating that the bicyclist’s injuries are consistent with being struck by a motor vehicle. The insurance carrier is likely to dispute liability if there is a lack of evidence proving that the cyclist was struck by a hit-and-run driver. That is why it is useful to have bike collision evidence, such as a police report, on hand.

What is the Statute of Limitations for an Injury Case in AZ?

The right to file a personal injury case for an incident is governed by Arizona’s statute of limitations. This means that there are established time limits for an individual’s right to take legal action. Failing to protect the statute may lead to the court dismissing the case.

• Personal Injury: Under ARS 12-542, an individual who has sustained injuries in an accident has a maximum of two years from the date of loss to file in court. This deadline also applies to cases of wrongful death.
• Injured Minor Child: A minor child who was injured in a cycling crash while under the age of 18 has two years from the date of their 18th birthday to file a case in civil court against the other side.
• Claim Against the Government: A claimant has no more than six months or 180 days from the date of loss to file a notice of claim against a public agency.

In Arizona, most plaintiffs have a two-year window from the date of a cycling crash to file a case in civil court. It is essential to contact an experienced lawyer immediately after an accident while key evidence supporting the case is still available.

How a Bicycle Injury Attorney Can Help You

Insurance companies often devalue or deny claims to mitigate financial liability in bicycle accident cases. When you work with our legal team, we will:

• Use our resources to build the strongest case possible against the at-fault party
• Conduct an in-depth investigation into the cycling crash to identify negligent parties and causes
• Properly establish negligence, including collecting evidence from the incident and consulting with expert witnesses
• Look into other factors that may have contributed to a bike collision, including a bicycle manufacturer for faulty bike equipment or a government entity for a road hazard
• Negotiate a settlement agreement with the insurer and opposing counsel that accounts for the full extent of the losses that resulted from the crash or file a lawsuit in civil court if necessary

At our law office, we offer our services on a contingency fee basis to make legal representation accessible to all injured cyclists in Maricopa County and throughout Arizona. Submit an online contact form today to learn more.

How Our Law Firm Supports the Cycling Community in Arizona

Our personal injury attorney, Luis Ayon, is an avid cyclist. Our firm's sponsorship of the Bicycle Haus Racing Team reflects our commitment to supporting local organizations and promoting bike safety. If a cycling crash in Phoenix or elsewhere in Arizona left you seriously injured, our experienced legal team is here to help. We invite you to schedule your free consultation today.

Consult with a Phoenix Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you were injured in a cycling crash, contact us at (602) 777-3300 to set up a free consultation with a skilled Phoenix bicycle accident attorney. We work for injured bicyclists and surviving family members to protect their rights and fight for full compensation. We serve Maricopa County and all other areas of Arizona.