Bicycle Accident

 

Des Moines Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Bicyclists have more than 2,870 miles available for riding in Iowa, according to data from the Iowa Department of Transportation. Yet, despite all those bicycle-friendly miles, 293 crashes involving injuries occurred in our state in 2022, the most recent year for which official data is available.

If you’ve been hurt in a bicycle accident in Des Moines, you have the right to pursue compensation for the injury-related costs you’re facing.

Whether you were injured in a hit-and-run incident, a collision with a distracted driver, or any other type of bicycle accident, we are here to offer the guidance and advocacy you need.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our Des Moines bicycle accident lawyers.

Why You Need a Des Moines Bicycle Accident Lawyer

An experienced attorney can help you maximize your chances of a favorable outcome in your bicycle accident claim. Here are just a few ways they could help:

Determining Liability

Establishing liability is crucial for building a robust case on your behalf. Your lawyer will meticulously investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident to identify who should be held accountable. This process may involve collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts.

Pursuing Compensation for Your Damages

A Des Moines bicycle accident lawyer at Iowa Lawyers can help you pursue the maximum compensation for your injuries. This may include damages covering your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.

Advocating for Your Best Interests

By hiring a Des Moines bicycle accident lawyer at Iowa Lawyers,  you can focus on your recovery while your attorney handles all legal matters. From filing paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary, your lawyer will safeguard your interests.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in Des Moines

If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident in Des Moines, taking the proper steps can protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Here are three important steps to take after a bicycle accident:

1. Seek medical attention and document your injuries. Your health should be your top priority following a bicycle accident. Even if you do not have visible injuries, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not be apparent right away, and a medical professional can assess your condition and provide necessary treatment. Your medical records can also serve as valuable evidence for your case.
2. Report the accident to the appropriate authorities. Reporting the bicycle accident to the Des Moines Police Department is crucial. They will create an official report detailing the incident, which can be useful for filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. Ensure you provide accurate and detailed information about the accident.
3. Gather evidence to support your case. Collect as much evidence as possible to strengthen your case. Take photographs of the accident scene, including any damage to your bicycle and surrounding objects. Obtain contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident. Keep records of your medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial losses resulting from the accident. This evidence will help demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the impact the accident has had on your life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Des Moines Bicycle Accidents

Victims injured in bicycle accidents often face uncertainty about the legal process. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about bicycle accident cases:

What should I do if the driver flees the scene? If the driver flees the scene, try to gather as much information as possible about the driver and their vehicle, such as the license plate number, make, and model. Report the incident to the police and provide all the details you have.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a bicycle accident claim in Des Moines? In Iowa, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including bicycle accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident.

Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident? In Iowa, even if you were partially at fault for the bicycle accident, you might still be eligible for compensation. Iowa follows a comparative fault system, meaning your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Des Moines

Understanding the most common causes of bicycle accidents can help in preventing these incidents and ensuring cyclists’ safety. Here are some of the most frequent causes:

Motorist Failing to Yield: One of the most common causes of bicycle accidents is when drivers fail to yield the right of way to cyclists. This often occurs at intersections and driveways when motorists do not see or properly account for the presence of a bicycle.

Dooring Accidents: Dooring happens when a parked car’s door is suddenly opened in the path of an oncoming cyclist. These accidents can be particularly dangerous, as they can throw cyclists into traffic or cause severe injuries.

Left-Turn Collisions: These accidents occur when a vehicle making a left turn at an intersection fails to notice an oncoming cyclist, leading to a collision. This type of accident is especially common in urban areas with high traffic volumes.

Right-Hook Accidents: A right-hook accident happens when a vehicle overtakes a cyclist and then makes a right turn directly in front of them. This can cause the cyclist to collide with the vehicle or be forced off the road.

Distracted Driving: Drivers who are distracted by their phones, navigation systems, or other in-car distractions may fail to notice cyclists on the road. Distracted driving significantly increases the risk of accidents involving bicycles.

Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, debris, and other hazardous road conditions can cause cyclists to lose control and crash. Municipalities have a responsibility to maintain roads in safe conditions for all users, including cyclists.

Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or fog can reduce visibility and make road surfaces slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Cyclists and motorists alike need to exercise extra caution during poor weather.

Inadequate Bicycle Lanes: Lack of dedicated bicycle lanes or poorly designed lanes can force cyclists to share the road with motor vehicles, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Safe, clearly marked bicycle lanes are crucial for reducing these risks.

Impaired Driving: Motorists operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to cause accidents. Impaired judgment and delayed reaction times can lead to dangerous and often deadly collisions.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Des Moines, it’s important to consult with a personal injury lawyer to explore your legal options and secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Des Moines Bicycle Accident Lawyers

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident in Des Moines, our team is here to help you. We understand that this can be a challenging and overwhelming time, and we are committed to providing you with the legal support and guidance you need.

One of the first steps in pursuing your bicycle accident case is to schedule a free consultation with our team. During this consultation, we will listen to your story, gather important details about your accident, and assess the strength of your case. This initial meeting allows us to understand your unique circumstances and provides you the opportunity to ask questions about your case.

If you have been involved in a bicycle accident in Des Moines, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Contact our Des Moines bicycle accident lawyers today to schedule your free consultation.