If you are a bicyclist, then you may already be very aware of the potential dangers that await you as you jump onto your two-wheeled form of transportation. Riding a bicycle is a great way for many people to get to work, run a nearby errand, enjoy the outdoors leisurely around town, or cruise down a woodsy trail. Regardless of where you plan to take your bike, it is crucial to fully understand that vehicles pose a huge threat to you while on the road.
In the article to follow, we have answered many questions that a bicyclist may ask themselves at some point during a ride or after a close-call accident. Here we have gone over common injuries, whether medical attention is needed, and when to seek an attorney for help.
What injuries are most common for bicyclists?
If a bicyclist got hit by a car that was going a reasonably fast speed, he or she is likely to become severely injured. Car drivers may be in a rush, on their cell phones, talking to a passenger, or falling asleep behind the wheel. It can be easy for a driver to not notice when a person on a bike is sharing the roadway.
The luckiest of bicyclist may walk away with sprains, bruises and minor wounds from hitting the pavement. Those who were not so fortunate, may endure any of the following conditions:
- Traumatic brain injury (concussion, brain swelling and/or bleeding)
- Impalement (from broken bicycle or vehicle parts)
- Facial & eye wounds
- Road rash
- Deep lacerations requiring stitches (from windshield shattering)
- Partial or total paralysis
- Pelvic fracture (from direct impact or when falling)
- Internal bleeding
- Organ rupture
- Emotional trauma (anxiety, depression, PTSD)
Should a bicyclist always call for medical help?
In the event of a bicycle accident, it is likely that those who witnessed the incident will run over to help the fallen rider. Even if the bicyclist is able to get back up with the assistance of others, he or she should either call 9-1-1 themselves or ask a good samaritan to do so. It is never a good idea to try and get back on your bike after enduring such a collision. When we go through a traumatic and unexpected experience, our body may respond with a rush of adrenaline. With this naturally produced hormone, injuries may be disguised until a later time. It is better to get a medical exam just in case, than to realize the next day you are in a substantial amount of pain and now have worsened ailments to treat.
How can an attorney help a bicyclist who is suffering injuries from an accident?
A personal injury attorney New York, NY residents rely on can provide legal advice to the injured bicyclist, if he or she is debating whether to sue the driver at-fault. The person who hit you may have to repay you for your medical costs, repairs to fix your bike, and loss of pay due to missing work for injury treatment and recovery.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Okun, Oddo & Babat, P.C. for the insight into bicycle accidents.
