Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle Accidents: How Haffner & Morgan Can Help

Injured in a bicycle accident? The attorneys at Haffner & Morgan have years of experience in helping the victims of bicycle accidents get compensated.  We provide free initial consultations and all of our bicycle accident cases are taken on a contingency (no recovery, no fee) basis.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

The most common causes of bicycle accidents are:

• Inattentive driving
• Speeding
• Alcohol or drug use
• Disobeying traffic laws
• Defective motorcycle or vehicle

Those injured in a bicycle accident by the negligence of another driver often run into difficulties being compensated by their damages.  Motor vehicle drivers and their insurance companies many times dispute liability even when it is relatively clear that the bicyclist was not at fault. In those situations, it is important to hire an attorney experienced in the complex liability that often comes with bicycle accidents (especially those caused by a motor vehicle driver where a collision did not take place). Haffner & Morgan have extensive experience handling bicycle cases ranging from auto versus bicycle collisions, to cases where a driver or a passenger in a parked motor vehicle negligently opens a door in the path of a bicyclist. We stand ready to help, counsel and advise injured bicyclists through the entire process.

What You Should Do if You’re In a Bicycle Accident:

1. BE SAFE: Leave your gear on. As a rider, you have a good understanding of driver’s selfish tendencies, now is not the time to forget. Get to the side of the road, away from traffic. If you are too hurt to move your bike, leave it. It can be replaced.
2. REMAIN CALM: Someone was at fault in the incident, but it is important to approach the other driver in a calm manner. Flared tempers may lead to exacerbating your injuries, or prevent you from obtaining the information you need.
3. CONTACT 911: Emergency personnel are best prepared to secure your safety as well as the safety of those around you. Moreover, being the first to initiate contact can put you in a better position to have your story told. You need to have your side of the story told to the police officer, especially if the driver is trying to avoid liability.
4. GET MEDICAL HELP: Allow the paramedics to examine you. Your adrenaline is likely to be flowing, preventing you from recognizing your injuries. Even if you’ve taken the time to see that you have no external injuries, there may be internal injuries. Seeking further medical attention, at an emergency department or urgent care, can be the best way to prevent any long term damage.
5. OBTAIN INFORMATION: After you’ve remained safe, contacted 911, and received medical help, you’re in the best position to obtain the information you need. No discussion of who is at fault is needed immediately. Ask the driver or the responding officer for proof of insurance and a driver’s license. If the other driver is admitting fault, document it. If they are asking you to admit fault, refer them to your insurance company. There is no need to say anything further

How a Bicycle Accident & Injury Lawyer at Haffner & Morgan Can Help

The cost, time, and stress that results after a bicycle accident is often overwhelming. If you believe your injury was the result of another’s negligence, or if you have insurance that you believe should cover your injury, the attorneys at Haffner & Morgan can help you in both your financial and physical recovery. Consultations are available at no cost to you, and no fees are taken unless you obtain a settlement or positive jury verdict.