Asheville Pedestrian & Bicycle Accident Attorneys

Common Injuries in Pedestrian & Bike Accidents

Because bikers and pedestrians have no protection, auto crash injuries tend to be worse than when two cars collide. A vehicle hitting you, even at a slow speed, can cause such catastrophic injuries as spinal injury and head trauma or result in a fatal accident. Although a bike helmet can protect you from brain injury, it is not a foolproof solution.

Common Causes of Pedestrian & Bicycle Accidents

Pedestrian and bicycle accidents are unfortunately prevalent, and they often result from a variety of causes. Some common causes of pedestrian & bicycle accidents may include:

• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or engaged in other distractions may fail to notice pedestrians or cyclists in their path, leading to serious collisions.
• Failure to Yield: Many accidents happen when drivers fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians or cyclists at crosswalks or intersections. This negligence can result in severe injuries for vulnerable road users.
• Speeding: Excessive speed significantly increases the severity of pedestrian and bicycle accidents. Speeding drivers have reduced reaction time, making it more difficult for them to avoid collisions with pedestrians or cyclists.
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drug impairment contribute to a substantial number of accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists. Impaired drivers are more likely to make inadequate judgments and fail to recognize pedestrians or cyclists on the road.
• Poor Road Conditions: Inadequate maintenance of roads, sidewalks, and bike lanes can create hazardous conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and lack of proper signage contribute to accidents and injuries.
• Defective Bicycles or Components: Defective bicycles or faulty components can lead to accidents and injuries. Manufacturers and distributors may be held liable for producing and selling products that pose risks to cyclists.
• Inattentive Pedestrians: While drivers are often at fault, pedestrians who are distracted or fail to exercise caution can also contribute to accidents. We can meticulously examine the circumstances surrounding each case to determine liability and build a strong case for our clients.
• Intersection Accidents: Intersections are common sites for pedestrian and bicycle accidents. Failure to obey traffic signals, inadequate signage, and negligent drivers can lead to collisions with devastating consequences.

Your Right To Recoverable Damages

Our legal team may pursue a variety of options after your crash. We typically file a claim against the negligent driver who ran into you. The driver’s liability insurance should cover damages arising from the incident that involved the driver’s reckless vehicle operation. In the case of a hit-and-run accident, your uninsured motorist policy should pay you for damages.

Our lawyers also review whether a third party contributed to your injuries. For example, a construction crew may be responsible for road debris or potholes that impede bike lane use. Likewise, the municipality may be liable for a downed stop sign that was supposed to direct drivers to halt at a pedestrian crosswalk.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian & Bicycle Accidents

At Hensley Cloninger & Greer, P.C., we understand that navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian or bicycle accident can be overwhelming.

To help you better understand your situation, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions that many of our clients have:

What should I do immediately after an accident?

Ensure your safety first, seek medical attention if needed, and document the scene by taking photos and gathering witness information.

How can I prove liability in my accident case?

Evidence such as police reports, eyewitness accounts, and traffic camera footage can help establish liability. Our legal team can assist you in gathering this information.

What damages can I claim?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Each case is unique, and we can help determine what you may be eligible for.

How long do I have to file a claim?

North Carolina has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, typically three years from the date of the accident. It's crucial to act quickly to protect your rights.

Will I have to go to court?

While many cases settle out of court, our experienced attorneys are prepared to represent you in court if necessary to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you have more questions or need personalized guidance, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you every step of the way.

Contact Our Asheville Pedestrian & Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Our lawyers offer you a free initial consultation and handle your case on a contingency arrangement. We represent clients in auto accident cases throughout the Southeast region — including in North Carolina and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia — through pro hac vice admission.

If you were hit by a car while walking, jogging, biking, or engaging in another type of pedestrian activity, call Hensley Cloninger & Greer, P.C., at (828) 383-8414 or contact us online to learn more about your rights with our Asheville pedestrian & bicycle accident attorneys.