If you have been injured due to the neglect or recklessness of another, it is important to immediately take the necessary steps to protect your rights. By reading this helpful article you will understand why the complexity of bicycle accidents requires the assistance of an aggressive personal injury attorney.
On average, at least five bicyclists in New Mexico die each year as a result of encounters with cars and trucks. Many more suffer head injuries and broken arms, legs and collarbones.
Causes of Bicycle Accidents
A number of causes can contribute to New Mexico cycling accidents. Cyclists often share the road with cars, trucks and pedestrians. Each year in the United States, hundreds of bicyclists are killed in accidents that are caused by negligent automobile drivers who are distracted or do not see them. Some bicycle accidents also occur when a cyclist loses control of his bike and crashes into a stationary object such as a pole, curb or median. Injuries can also be caused by defective bicycle parts or unsafe riding conditions. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, do not get rid of the bicycle, and make sure the damage to the bike is photographed. A New Mexico bicycle accident attorney can help you determine the cause of the accident and who is responsible.
Bicycle Accidents In Intersections
Bicycle accidents can occur anywhere on the road, but often happen in intersections. Intersections are where a bicyclist is the most at risk of being struck by a car. In New Mexico, bicyclists are generally considered to be a “vehicle” and must follow the basic traffic laws. Cyclists must ride with the flow of traffic, stop at stop signs, and yield when necessary. Children unfamiliar with road laws are especially at risk for accidents.
Bicycle Accident Injuries
In any accident with a car, bus, or truck, a cyclist is vulnerable to serious injury or death. A bicycle rider is at a high risk for head injuries, including skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries, especially if the cyclist is not wearing a helmet, or if the helmet is not fastened properly. 70% of bicycle accidents that result in fatalities are due to head injuries. A cyclist thrown from a bike may suffer spinal cord injuries, neck injuries or back injuries. Other injuries may include loss of limbs, multiple fracture injuries, burn injuries, and disfigurement.
Compensation for Bicycle Accident Injuries
If somebody else caused you to be seriously injured in a bike crash in New Mexico, you may be entitled to damages for your pain and suffering, lost wages, and your medical bills. At The Hayes Law Firm, a New Mexico bike accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options after an accident.
Free Bicycle Accident Injury Consultation
If you or if a member of your family has been injured or has died in a bicycle accident in New Mexico, call us today for a free consultation at (575) 527-HURT. An attorney can meet you at your home, hospital room or one of our offices. All cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning we never charge a fee unless there is a positive outcome at the end of your case.
