Kokomo Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycling is a popular way to get around Kokomo, whether for commuting, exercise, or leisure. Unfortunately, as more cyclists share the road with motor vehicles, the risk of bicycle accidents increases. Many of these accidents result in serious injuries that can leave victims with physical, emotional, and financial hardships.

If you were hurt in a bicycle accident, our Kokomo accident lawyer at Vaughn A. Wamsley is here to help you demand justice. We will fight for full compensation, so you are better positioned to move forward. Call our bicycle injury lawyer in Kokomo now for a consultation.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents happen for many reasons, but most involve negligence by a motorist. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or not paying attention may fail to see cyclists.
• Failure to Yield: Cyclists are at risk when motorists do not yield the right of way at intersections or when merging.
• Speeding: High speeds reduce a driver’s reaction time and increase the severity of collisions.
• Dooring Accidents: Cyclists can be seriously injured when a parked driver opens a car door in their path.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, and debris can cause cyclists to lose control.
• Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, making them a significant danger to cyclists.

Injuries Resulting from Bicycle Accidents

Bicyclists have little protection compared to those inside vehicles, which often results in severe injuries. Common injuries include:

• Head Injuries: Even with helmets, cyclists can suffer concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
• Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones are particularly vulnerable.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity.
• Road Rash and Lacerations: Severe scrapes and deep cuts may require stitches or skin grafts.
• Internal Injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.

Legal Rights of Injured Cyclists in Kokomo

When a bicycle accident occurs due to another party’s negligence, the injured cyclist has the legal right to seek compensation for their losses. This compensation may include:

Medical Expenses

Bicycle accidents often result in serious injuries, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. Compensation can help cover the cost of emergency medical care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.

Additionally, if long-term care or specialized medical equipment is needed, these costs may also be factored into the settlement. Seeking prompt medical attention and keeping detailed records of all medical expenses is crucial for maximizing compensation.

Lost Wages

If the injuries sustained in the accident prevent the cyclist from returning to work, they may be entitled to recover lost wages. This includes income lost during recovery as well as potential future earnings if the injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.

For those who are self-employed or work in specialized fields, a Kokomo bicycle accident attorney can help calculate the full financial impact of the lost income and advocate for appropriate compensation.

Loss of Quality of Life

Injuries from a bicycle accident can have lasting effects beyond physical pain. If the accident leads to chronic pain, mobility limitations, or emotional trauma, the injured cyclist may experience a diminished quality of life.

Compensation may be available for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment in hobbies or activities, and the psychological toll of the accident. In severe cases, additional damages may be awarded to account for these life-altering changes if a cyclist cannot perform daily tasks independently.

Vaughn Knows What You Are Going Through

You Don’t Pay Unless We Win

Time Is Not On Your Side After An Accident. Call Vaughn Wamsley NOW.

317-846-1080

How Vaughn A. Wamsley Can Help

At Vaughn A. Wamsley, we understand the difficulties that come with a bicycle accident injury. Our team is committed to helping injured cyclists get the justice and compensation they deserve. When you work with us, you can expect:

• A Thorough Investigation: We gather evidence, review accident reports, and work with experts to build a strong case.
• Negotiation with Insurance Companies: We handle all communications to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
• Litigation if Necessary: We are prepared to take your case to court if the insurance company does not offer fair compensation.
• No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Why Choose Vaughn A. Wamsley?

There are several benefits you can expect from working with us. This includes:

• Local Experience: We have served clients in Kokomo for over 30 years and understand the unique challenges cyclists face on Indiana roads.
• Proven Success: Our team has a strong track record of securing favorable settlements and verdicts.
• Personalized Representation: Every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of our clients.

Preventive Measures for Cyclists

While cyclists cannot control the actions of drivers, they can take precautions to reduce their risk of an accident:

• Wear a Helmet: A properly fitted helmet can reduce the risk of serious head injuries.
• Use Reflective Gear: Bright or reflective clothing and bike lights make you more visible, especially at night.
• Follow Traffic Laws: Obeying signals and riding predictably can help prevent accidents.
• Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like headphones while riding.
• Use Bike Lanes When Available: When designated lanes are present, they offer safer spaces for cyclists.

Common Challenges in Bicycle Accident Claims

Bicycle accident claims can be complex due to several factors:

• Insurance Disputes: The at-fault driver’s insurance may try to deny liability or undervalue the claim.
• Comparative Fault Rules: Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault.
• Lack of Evidence: Without proper documentation, proving negligence can be challenging.
• Severe Injuries: Serious injuries often require long-term medical care, which insurers may try to avoid covering fully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries and financial burdens. If you were involved in a crash in Kokomo, you likely have questions about your legal options. Below, we address some common concerns to help you better understand your rights and next steps.

How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Kokomo?

Indiana law generally allows filing a personal injury lawsuit for two years from the accident date. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, applies to most cases. However, exceptions, such as claims involving government entities, may exist, which could have shorter deadlines.

It is best to start the process as soon as possible to preserve crucial evidence, such as traffic camera footage and witness statements, which can strengthen your case. Consulting with a top-rated bike accident lawyer in Kokomo early on can help ensure you meet all legal requirements.

What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet during the accident?

You may still be eligible for compensation even if you weren’t wearing a helmet during the accident. However, the insurance company might claim that the absence of head protection contributed to the severity of your injuries.

While Indiana does not have a universal helmet law for bicyclists, insurers may attempt to use this against you to reduce your settlement. Kokomo’s best bicycle accident lawyer can push back against these claims and advocate for the full compensation you deserve.

Can I still file a claim if the driver fled the scene?

You can still pursue a claim if the at-fault driver was not identified. In hit-and-run cases, you may be able to file an uninsured motorist (UM) claim through your insurance policy. Many auto insurance policies include UM coverage, which is designed to protect victims when a negligent driver is unknown or lacks insurance.

You must report the accident to the police and your insurance provider as soon as possible to document the incident and begin the claims process. A bicycle accident lawyer near me can help through the process of uninsured motorist claims and work to secure fair compensation.

Contact Our Kokomo Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Kokomo, you don’t have to go through this alone. Contact Vaughn A. Wamsley today for a free consultation.

Our no-win, no-fee bicycle accident lawyer in Kokomo is ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.