According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention1 (CDC), injuries caused by bicycle accidents resulted in approximately 515,000 emergency department visits during 2010. While bicycle riding is unarguably an extremely cost-effective and efficient way to get around, it also exposes riders to an inherent risk of serious injury. The injuries that people can sustain in bicycle accidents have the potential to result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses, the inability to work for an extended period of time, significant pain, and even long-term disabilities. Fortunately, in many cases an experienced Michigan bicycle accident attorney can help victims recover for their injuries by filing a personal injury claim.
Bicycle accidents can occur in a variety of ways, and there are number of parties that could potentially be held liable, including drivers, property owners, other bicyclists, or even bicycle manufacturers or retailers. In many cases, the representation of an attorney can result in a significantly higher settlement offer than a person would be able to obtain on his or her own. In addition, if litigation becomes necessary, it is highly advisable to do file suit with the assistance of a lawyer. As a result, anyone who has been involved in a bicycle accident should discuss their options with a Michigan bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Common injuries sustained in bicycle accidents
Bicycle accidents are capable of causing a variety of serious injuries. Some of the more common are detailed below.
- Broken bones – Bone fractures are a very common result of serious bicycle accidents, particularly in cases where a rider is thrown from his or her bike. They can be extremely painful and may leave victims with unsightly scarring and impaired mobility, as well as other long-term complications.
- Traumatic brain injuries2 – Also known as a TBI, a traumatic brain injury occurs when trauma to the head results in a disruption with the way the brain normally functions. Concussions are the most common form of mild TBI, but they can also be severe and have a significant impact on a person’s daily life.
- Soft tissue injuries3 – Soft tissue injuries include injuries such as sprains, bruises, muscle tears, and injuries to the tendons or ligaments. While many are self-resolving, they have the potential of resulting in serious complications.
- Spinal cord injuries – A spinal cord injuries involve damage to the spinal cord or the vertebrae that surround it. Because the spinal cord is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body, damage to it can result in a number of serious issues, including changes in sensation and loss of mobility below the sire of the injury.
After a bicycle accident, it is important for victims to seek medical attention immediately. Undergoing a complete medical evaluation will both ensure that your injuries are properly treated and that an official record exists connecting your injuries to your accident.
Contact a Michigan bicycle accident lawyer today to schedule a free consultation
Individuals who are injured in bicycle accidents can often recover significant compensation from the responsible party or parties. The lawyers of Michigan Injury Lawyers provide aggressive representation and work tirelessly that each client we represent obtain the maximum amount of compensation available under Michigan law. To schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys, call our office today at (888)-454-0801.
References:
1 http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Bicycle/
2 http://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/
3 http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00304
Thomas L. Stroble
FOUNDER
Mr. Stroble is a highly accomplished graduate of Michigan State University, with degrees in both science and law. He specializes in commercial lawsuits and personal injury cases. Licensed to practice law in Michigan and even the U.S. Supreme Court, he’s a well-qualified legal expert. Besides his career in law, he loves outdoor activities and volunteers as a part-time police officer in Birmingham.
Author's Bio
