Charlotte Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycle Accident Attorney in Charlotte, NC

A bicycle accident can happen in a moment, but it can impact your life for far longer. It’s not uncommon for a cyclist to be left with medical bills and lasting injuries. Too often, the accident results from a motorist disregarding North Carolina traffic laws. A skilled Charlotte bicycle accident lawyer can help you understand your options if you’ve been injured. It is often helpful to understand the North Carolina personal injury statute of limitations to ensure you do not miss the deadline for filing your claim.

A professional Charlotte personal injury lawyer can assist you with navigating the complexities of bike accident laws. A lawyer can help establish and prove driver or manufacturer negligence and protect your rights. A lawyer will have unique skills, such as understanding the claims process and legal system.

Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

The team at Steven T. Meier, PLLC, has extensive experience litigating cases in state and federal courts and in administrative proceedings with the Department of Transportation and the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. Our staff has a deep understanding of bicycle safety laws, local traffic laws, and cyclists’ rights.

A bicycle accident case can involve complex negotiations with insurance providers and possibly going to court. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer can help level the playing field and ensure your interests are protected. Common duties include:

• Assisting with filing a police report
• Providing legal advice
• Building a strong case against the responsible party
• Calculating a fair amount for compensation
• Negotiating with insurance companies or opposing counsel
• Advocating and fighting for fair and full compensation

Police reports can be filed with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department located at 601 E. Trade Street, Charlotte, NC 28202. You can also request a copy of the police report, which you may need for documenting your case.

What Compensation Can I Ask for After a Bicycle Accident?

If you were injured in a bicycle accident that was caused by the negligence of someone else, you may be entitled to the economic and non-economic damages. An attorney will see how pain and suffering is calculated in North Carolina to ensure your mental anguish is properly valued. Compensation may include:

• Property damages, including your bicycle, cellphone, and helmet.
• All medical and healthcare expenses, such as emergency room visits, medication, tests, x-rays, prescriptions, and physical therapy sessions.
• You may be entitled to lost earnings if the accident leaves you permanently unable to work.
• You may recoup the number of lost wages due to missed work.
• Pain and suffering seek to provide compensation for the mental anguish and pain you endure because of the accident.
• Loss of enjoyment of life recognizes the impact the accident may have on your ability to engage in certain physical and mental activities that decrease your quality of life.
• Ongoing emotional and mental issues, such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Rules for Cyclists

Bicycle riders are required to follow the same rules as motorists. Riders must obey all traffic signs and signals. If cycling at night, the bicycle must be equipped with a working white front light, a red reflector or rear light, and brakes. A cyclist who fails to stop at a stop sign or red light can face a fine of up to $100.

Bicycles are required to ride as far to the right as possible in the same direction as traffic on any paved road. If the road is too narrow, a bicycle may use the entire lane if it is not safe for a bicycle and a vehicle to travel side by side. You may not ride on the handlebars of a bicycle.

In Charlotte, you can ride your bicycle on the sidewalk except for the area of Church, Stonewall, Seventh, and College Streets. Charlotte also provides many bike lanes and multi-use paths designed to promote safety.

If an individual is found to be cycling under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they can be charged with driving while impaired. In North Carolina, any bicycle rider under 16 years old is required to wear a helmet, and all riders are encouraged to do so for safety.

FAQs

How Much Compensation Can You Expect for a Cycling Accident?

The amount of compensation you can expect for a cycling accident will depend on a variety of factors. Compensation will be impacted by how severe the injuries suffered are, the number of lost wages, the total medical expenses paid, and the impact on quality of life. Cases are stronger when a clear fault can be established. If you are involved in a cycling accident, it can be prudent to hire a bicycle accident lawyer to provide legal representation.

Can I File a Personal Injury Case Against Someone for Hitting Me on My Bike?

You can file a personal injury case against someone who hit you on your bike. Cyclists have the right to use the road along with motorists. Bicycle accidents often result from reckless or distracted driving. Unfortunately, a cycling accident can often result in serious injuries. Injured bicyclists can seek compensation for economic and non-economic damages. If a loved one is killed in a cycling accident, the executor or administrator can file a wrongful death claim.

Who Is Usually at Fault in Bike Crashes?

In a bike crash, the individual who acted negligently or violated a traffic rule is at fault. Typical causes of a motor vehicle driver’s fault include driving while distracted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, opening a door into a cyclist, and failure to yield. A cyclist may be at fault if they ride against traffic, neglect to use lights, ignore signals, or are not visible.

What Is the Most Common Cyclist Accident?

The most common cyclist accident is a collision with a motorist. In 2023, there were 40 cycling fatalities statewide in North Carolina. There were also 96 bicycle accidents reported in Charlotte, with one death and 95 injuries. Charlotte has taken steps to make roadways safer and more appealing for cyclists. This includes creating designated bike lanes and paths for cyclists to use. On roads where there is no bike lane, cyclists have the right to use the entire lane.

Charlotte Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Steven T. Meier, PLLC, can handle complex bicycle accident cases. Our team provides compassionate legal counsel. Contact the office to schedule a consultation and let us help you seek the compensation you deserve.