Chattanooga Bicycle Accident Attorneys
Bicycling is becoming a more popular mode of transportation for many in Tennessee for its ecological, economical, and healthful benefits. More bicyclists on the road unfortunately also increase the chances of a Tennessee bicycle accident.
Tennessee Bicycle Accident Statistics
According to the Tennessee Department of Safety, there were 418 bicycle accidents in 2009, a decrease from the 480 accidents in 2008. Although statistics from 2010 are not final, preliminary data confirms 333 bicycle accidents, a decrease of almost 100 accidents from 2009. Also, based on preliminary data, there were four fatal Tennessee bike collisions in 2010.
Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycles do not provide the protection that a motor-vehicle does in the event of a crash. As a result, many bicycle car accidents in Tennessee cause serious injury, or even death to the cyclist. Depending on the severity of the crash, bicyclists may suffer a wide range of injuries, including:
- Bumps and bruises;
- Cuts and scrapes;
- Lacerations;
- Fractured bones;
- Dislocated bones;
- Head and brain injuries; and
- Spinal cord injuries.
Anyone planning on using a bicycle as their means of transportation must make sure they are taking the proper safety precautions, such as wearing a bicycle helmet, and are following Tennessee’s bike and road laws. Both are equally important to preventing a Tennessee accident injury.
Causes of Tennessee Bicycle Crashes
Bicycle accidents can happen on any road, in any type of weather, and in various circumstances. A wet road can cause a bicycle to slip and fall over, especially if the tires are worn; a damaged or poorly maintained road could cause a bike to smash into a pothole and eject its cyclist; an inattentive motorist may hit a bicyclist while they are riding through a crosswalk; or a parked motorist may even open their door in the path of a bicyclist. The severity of the accident is usually dependant on the speed at which the cyclist and/or the motorist is travelling.
Liability for Bicycle Accident Injuries
The cause of a Tennessee bicycle accident usually determines liability. If the crash was caused by a hazardous, damaged or poorly designed roadway, then the city and/or state department in charge of maintaining that road may be held accountable for the losses an injured victim suffers. Likewise, if a driver is distracted, speeding, or otherwise negligent or reckless, causing the accident, he or she may be held responsible for an injured victim’s losses. In the extreme case of a fatal bicycle accident in Tennessee, the victim’s family may be entitled to compensation for the wrongful death of their loved one.
Getting the Compensation you Deserve
At Massey & Associates, PC, our knowledgeable Chattanooga bike accident attorneys know how difficult sustaining a bike accident injury can be, especially when another party is at-fault. We believe that every victim should have the opportunity to seek compensation for the losses they’ve suffered. Contact us today at (423) 697-4529 to learn more about how we can help you exercise your legal rights.
