Bicycle Accident Attorneys in Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon is one of the largest cities in America’s Pacific Northwest, and as such, is known for many things. World-renowned restaurants and hundreds of food carts line streets, art and theater shows draw crowds of thousands, and the world’s largest independent bookstore covers an entire city block.
But novelties aside, Portland is specifically notable for its strong community of cyclists. Known as the country’s biking capital, it’s home to 85 miles of bike paths, over 150 miles of bike lanes, and nearly 7,000 public bike racks – all of which make it easier and safer to traverse the city by two wheels.
Despite these safety measures, however, bicycle accidents happen in Portland, just as they do in other cities – and if you’re one of the unlucky ones that has suffered a bicycle accident, it’s crucial to enlist the help of an experienced bicycle accident attorney in Portland.
Working With You to Obtain Equitable Compensation After a Bicycle Accident
Aside from a helmet, bicyclists have no protection from other vehicles on the road. As such, when a cyclist is hit by a car or truck, the results can be devastating – and may include severe injuries, significant property damage, and sometimes even death.
When you find yourself in an accident as a cyclist, it is important to remember that you have rights. Depending on your location, this could include the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, property damage, or other losses. Additionally, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim if the other party was at fault for the accident.
What Are the Causes of Most Bicycle Accidents?
Bicycle accidents can be attributed to a range of causes. Drivers are unfortunately a common denominator, as they often fail to properly recognize bicycles on the road, and don’t provide enough space for cyclists to safely navigate. In some cases, however, bicycle accidents can be caused by other external factors, such as hazardous road conditions or defective bicycle parts.
Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include:
- Distracted Driving – Similarly to car accidents, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of bicycle accidents in the United States.
- Impaired Driving – Alcohol and drugs can drastically reduce reaction time, making it difficult for drivers to react quickly to cyclists on the road.
- Poor Road Conditions – Potholes, debris, and other road hazards can easily cause a cyclist to lose control of their bike.
- Failing to Yield – Both cyclists and drivers must be aware of their surroundings at all times and obey traffic laws.
- Following Too Closely – Drivers must leave a safe distance between themselves and cyclists to allow enough time to react in the event of an emergency.
- Excessive Speed – Excessive speed from both drivers and cyclists can increase the chances of a collision on the road.
- Unsafe Lane Changes – Sudden lane changes can easily cause an accident, especially when cyclists are involved.
- Driver Fatigue – Drivers that are fatigued or have been driving for extended periods of time may not be as alert to cyclists on the road.
What Are the Most Common Bicycle Accident Injuries?
Bicycle accidents are known to cause a number of different injuries, which often vary depending on the type of incident that occurred. These injuries can develop immediately or over time, and may include:
- Head Injuries – The most common injuries received by cyclists are head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries. These can be temporary or life-altering, and may require long-term medical care.
- Facial Injuries – Facial injuries are another common injury that cyclists may suffer from in an accident. These can range from minor cuts and scrapes to more serious fractures, breaks, and even permanent disfigurement.
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, and whiplash can also occur in bicycle accidents and may require physical therapy to heal properly.
- Severe Trauma – In more severe accidents, cyclists may suffer from broken bones, fractures, organ damage, or internal bleeding.
- Back Injuries – Back injuries like herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and nerve damage are also common in bicycle accidents.
How Long Do I Have to File a Case?
In Oregon, you typically have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury claim. In certain cases, the statute of limitations may be extended, depending on the circumstances of your case. If you are unsure about when the statute of limitations may be up in your case, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. They will be able to evaluate the details of your case and advise you on whether it may be possible to file a claim after the statute of limitations has expired. Additionally, they will be able to walk you through the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit in Portland, OR.
How Palace Law Can Help
At Palace Law, we understand the complexities of bicycle accident cases and are dedicated to helping you get the justice you deserve. Our experienced legal team has extensive knowledge of the legal system, and can provide you with the resources necessary to navigate through the process.
We have a team of attorneys, four of which have tried over 200 cases each, and have earned a reputation for providing excellent legal services to clients. We also have over 1,500 positive reviews from satisfied clients.
We offer free consultations, are available 24/7, and can come to you if you’re too injured to travel. We also provide free legal forms to help you better understand your rights and the process of filing a claim.
Palace Law is here to help you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get a fair settlement in your bicycle accident case.