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Atlanta Bicycle Accident Attorney

If you have been injured in an accident while riding your bicycle that was caused due to the negligence of another, you may have grounds to pursue damages against the negligent parties. These cases can become very complicated, and it is important that you seek the advice of a reliable Atlanta bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible.

The personal injury lawyers at the law firm of Hilley & Frieder, P.C., offer clients more than 38 years of experience fighting for the rights of injury victims. From our offices in Atlanta, Georgia, we provide skillful, compassionate, and results-oriented representation, working diligently to obtain the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move on with your life.

If you have suffered an injury in a bicycle accident that you did not cause, contact one of our bike accident lawyers to discuss your rights and your legal options.

The Right Lawyers After A Serious Bike Wreck

In Atlanta and in communities throughout the area, bicycle riders have certain rights on the road. Drivers who share the road with them are required to be familiar with those rights and to treat bicycle riders accordingly. When drivers fail to recognize the rights of bicycle riders and accidents happen, the resulting injuries can be extremely severe and sometimes fatal.

Our considerable background in these cases serves as a significant benefit to our clients. Our knowledge of the injuries common in these types of accidents along with our understanding of how they are treated allows us to seek the right financial compensation and medical care appropriate to your unique situation.

Causes Of Bike Accidents In Georgia

There are many negligent behaviors that drivers participate in that can lead to bicycle accidents, including:

  • Opening doors into bicycle lanes
  • Turning left in front of a bicyclist
  • Switching lanes without checking for bicycles
  • Texting and driving
  • Drunk driving and more

Atlanta Bicycle Accident Statistics

The rate of bicycle accidents in Atlanta is increasing at a rapid rate. According to a report by the Atlanta Regional Commission, collisions between motor vehicles and cyclists, as well as pedestrians, are a serious issue that requires immediate action.

The Commission provides the following statistics regarding bicycle accidents in Atlanta:

  • Atlanta saw a 53% increase in cyclist and pedestrian collisions between 2006 and 2015.
  • Georgia ranks 7th among states with the highest cyclist and pedestrian fatalities.
  • Atlanta saw a 26% increase in cyclist and pedestrian fatalities between 2006 and 2015.
  • Only 5% of trips in the Atlanta metro region involve cycling or walking.
  • Georgia ranks 47th among states with the highest percentage of pedestrians and cyclists.

While the Commission is currently taking measures to make Atlanta streets safer for those who do not use motor vehicles, the high rates of collisions are extremely alarming. These statistics point to careless city infrastructure and a high number of dangerous drivers within the Atlanta area that pose a serious risk to cyclists and pedestrians alike.

Common Injuries In Georgia Bike Accidents

Bicycle accidents often lead to severe, debilitating injuries that require weeks, months, or even years of recovery time. These injuries may need intensive care, physical therapy, surgery and disability accommodations — all of which may contribute to thousands of dollars in medical bills.

Common injuries sustained by cyclists include the following:

  • Broken bones and sprains: From a broken femur to a sprained wrist or ankle, damage to the bones and ligaments are common during a bicycle accident. Depending on the location and severity of the break or sprain, these injuries can take months to heal.
  • Traumatic brain injuries: Our brain is responsible for controlling many of our body’s functions, and damage to this organ can lead to devastating consequences. Whether you are riding with a helmet or without a helmet, traumatic brain injury can occur due to a blow to the head, hitting your head on the road or pavement, or an object piercing your skull. These injuries can lead to lifelong consequences and require intensive treatment.
  • Spinal cord injuries: Like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage can be very serious. Your spinal cord is important for controlling movement and sensation, and damage to this area can lead to paralysis or inhibited motion.
  • Bruises and lacerations: Some of the most common bicycle injuries are bruises, contusions, cuts, and lacerations. Falling off a bike and skidding on asphalt often leads to road burn, which can be very painful. However, these injuries can heal quickly with prompt treatment.

You Have The Same Rights As Cars Do

Many times after a bicycle accident, the drivers of the vehicle will claim that the bicyclist caused the accident or the bicyclist shouldn’t have been on the road in the first place. Not only are these accusations usually false, but you have the same rights on the road as drivers of cars and trucks do.

Do not let an insurance company talk you out of your right to compensation. It is not wise to accept a lowball offer from insurance. They are out to protect their bottom line, not your needs. Speak with an Atlanta bike accident lawyer regarding your options before signing or agreeing to anything.

How Long Do You Have To File A Bicycle Accident Lawsuit?

After a bicycle accident, you may choose to file a personal injury lawsuit against the party responsible for your injuries. This may include a negligent driver, as well as government agencies, property owners, businesses, and other entities, depending on the cause of your accident.

Georgia law requires you to file your lawsuit within two years of your accident or the court will likely dismiss your claim. This is due to the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, which sets a deadline on your case to ensure your evidence and witnesses are reliable enough for court.

While there are some exceptions to the statute of limitations, they are not common in bicycle accident cases. Speak to a bike accident attorney at Hilley & Frieder, P.C., as soon as possible to ensure you retain your right to compensation.

Free Consultation With An Atlanta Bicycle Accident Attorney

To learn more about your options regarding your bicycle injuries, contact our lawyers at Hilley & Frieder, P.C. We will give you straightforward advice regarding your situation and answer any questions you may have. Call us at (404) 795-6099 to schedule your free initial consult today.

Attorneys Ronald Hilley And Mia Frieder Working Together In Office Hallway