Lawrence Bicycle Accident Lawyer

The aftermath can feel like a blur when your everyday ride turns into a life-altering event. You were doing everything right—wearing a helmet, obeying traffic signals, staying alert. But then a careless driver made a split-second mistake, and now you’re dealing with injuries, mounting bills, and questions about what comes next.

At our firm, we’ve helped countless cyclists pick up the pieces after serious accidents, and we understand what’s at stake. As your trusted Lawrence accident lawyer, we ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.

Bicycling in Lawrence: A Popular But Risky Commute

Cycling has grown in popularity across Indiana, including Lawrence. With the Monon Trail and other multi-use paths nearby, it’s no surprise more residents are choosing two wheels over four. Unfortunately, with increased bicycle traffic comes a higher risk of accidents.

According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute’s 2022 Crash Facts, there were 893 bicycle collisions in the state that year. Of those, 771 resulted in injury, and 14 resulted in death. Many of these incidents were caused by driver negligence—failing to yield, texting behind the wheel, or opening a car door without checking for cyclists.

We know that when you’re injured in a bike crash, you need more than just a sympathetic ear. You need a bicycle accident attorney in Lawrence who can act quickly, investigate thoroughly, and fight for fair compensation.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Lawrence

Most bike accidents are not the cyclist’s fault. Many clients come to us after doing everything they could to stay safe. The most common causes we see in Lawrence include:

• Distracted driving: Texting or using a GPS while driving reduces reaction time and puts cyclists in danger.
• Failure to yield: Drivers often don’t respect cyclists’ right-of-way at intersections.
• Unsafe lane changes: Motorists may try to pass too closely or swerve into a bike lane without warning.
• Dooring incidents: A parked driver opens a door into the path of an oncoming cyclist.
• Speeding: Higher speeds increase the risk of severe injuries in a collision.
• Drunk or impaired driving: Alcohol slows reflexes and decision-making, often with tragic results.

Our role as your Lawrence bike crash attorney is to uncover exactly what happened and prove the other party’s liability using evidence, police reports, traffic camera footage, and eyewitness testimony.

Common Injuries from Bike Crashes

Because cyclists have little physical protection, injuries are often severe. As an accident lawyer in Lawrence, we’ve helped victims recover compensation for:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), even when a helmet is worn
• Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs
• Road rash and severe skin lacerations
• Spinal cord injuries, including partial or complete paralysis
• Internal bleeding or organ damage
• Dental and facial trauma
• Psychological trauma, including PTSD or anxiety

Even what seems like a minor injury can lead to long-term complications or chronic pain. It’s crucial to seek medical attention right away and keep a record of your diagnosis and treatment.

Indiana Bicycle Laws: Know Your Rights

Understanding your rights as a cyclist is critical after an accident. Indiana law considers bicycles vehicles, meaning riders have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers on public roads. Some key statutes include:

• IC 9-21-11-2: Cyclists must ride as far to the right side of the roadway as practicable but may take the entire lane when necessary for safety.
• IC 9-21-11-6: Bicycles must be equipped with a white front light and a red rear reflector or light when riding after dark.
• IC 9-21-8-35 states that drivers must exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians or people propelling human-powered vehicles.

Despite these protections, many drivers still treat cyclists as second-class road users. That’s why having a Lawrence bicycle accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference. We hold negligent drivers accountable and push back against insurance companies that try to minimize or deny your claim.

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

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Lawrence

If you’re able, here are the steps we recommend following any bicycle crash:

1. Call 911 – Always report the accident to law enforcement, even if injuries seem minor.
2. Seek medical attention – Some injuries take hours or days to show symptoms.
3. Document the scene – Take photos of your injuries, bike, vehicle, and surrounding area.
4. Get witness information – Contact details and bystander statements can be crucial later.
5. Do not admit fault – Even an innocent apology can be used against you.
6. Contact a Lawrence bike crash attorney – The sooner you call us, the faster we can begin preserving evidence and building your case.

We offer free consultations and only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

What Your Case Might Be Worth

Every bike crash case is different, but there are several types of damages you may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses – Ambulance rides, surgeries, rehab, physical therapy, medication, and more
• Lost wages – Time you couldn’t work due to your injuries
• Lost future earnings – If your injuries reduce your ability to work in the future
• Pain and suffering – Physical pain and emotional distress
• Property damage – Repair or replacement of your bicycle and gear
• Loss of enjoyment of life – If your injuries prevent you from hobbies, sports, or daily activities you once enjoyed

Insurance companies may offer quick settlements that don’t even come close to covering these losses. That’s where we step in. As your dedicated bicycle accident attorney in Lawrence, we calculate the full value of your claim and fight for the maximum payout possible.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

The driver’s insurance company is not on your side. Their goal is to protect their bottom line—not your recovery. You might get a call offering a settlement before you’ve even had a chance to understand the extent of your injuries. Don’t sign or agree to anything without speaking to a lawyer.

We know all their tricks—recorded statements, lowball offers, blaming the cyclist—and we won’t let them get away with it. As your accident lawyer in Lawrence, we handle all communication with insurers, gather the necessary documentation, and represent you in negotiations or court.

Why Choose Us as Your Lawrence Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Our team isn’t just experienced—we’re invested in helping members of our community recover and rebuild. When you choose our firm, you get:

• Personalized attention: You’re never just another case number. We take the time to understand your goals and concerns.
• Thorough investigations: We leave no stone unturned when gathering evidence and identifying liable parties.
• Aggressive advocacy: Whether at the negotiation table or in the courtroom, we fight relentlessly for our clients.
• Clear communication: We keep you updated at every step and explain legal processes in plain language.
• No upfront costs: We charge a contingency fee, so you don’t pay unless we win your case.

From day one, we treat your case with the urgency and care it deserves.

Time Limits: Don’t Wait to File a Claim

Under Indiana law, you generally have two years from the date of your bicycle accident to file a personal injury claim (Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4). You may lose your right to compensation entirely if you miss this deadline. The clock starts ticking immediately, so speak with a Lawrence bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Certain exceptions may apply—such as if the injured party is a minor or the crash involved a government vehicle—but don’t assume you have more time without confirming with an attorney.

We’re Ready to Help You Move Forward

Bicycle accidents can disrupt your entire life in an instant. The road ahead may feel uncertain from physical recovery to financial pressure and emotional strain. But you don’t have to face it alone.

We’re here to help you understand your rights, explore your options, and take the next step toward recovery. As your bicycle accident attorneys in Lawrence, we’re committed to securing the best possible outcome so you can focus on healing.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle crash, reach out today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can return to living your life.