Virginia Beach Bicycle Accident Lawyer
When bicycle accidents occur due to negligent drivers, you can pursue legal action to recover compensation for your injuries and losses in Virginia Beach. This way, you won’t have to shoulder the costs of someone else’s negligence, protecting your financial stability.
At Tronfeld West & Durrett, our experienced Virginia Beach personal injury lawyers are here to help. With over five decades of experience, a proven track record of success, and a strategic approach, we work tirelessly to build strong cases and secure fair compensation on your behalf.
Injured in a Bicycle Accident? Our Virginia Beach Attorneys Are Here to Help
Navigating a bicycle accident claim requires a deep understanding of Virginia’s personal injury laws and the ability to overcome challenges that may arise, like liability disputes. At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we offer:
- Decades of experience advocating for accident victims: With over 50 years of experience, we have the knowledge and skills to handle even the most complex cases.
- Proven success in securing fair settlements: Our attorneys have recovered hundreds of millions for our clients, helping them rebuild their lives after an accident.
- Personalized and compassionate representation for each client: We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to meet your needs.
From the initial meeting to the final resolution, our experienced lawyers will stand by your side and advocate for your rights. You can schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with one of our team’s lawyers and get an estimated compensation amount based on similar case results we’ve achieved.
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For answers to your questions about a bicycle accident in Virginia Beach, call:
800-321-6741
Understanding Bicycle Accidents in Virginia Beach
Bicycle accidents are an unfortunate reality in Virginia. According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, there were 590 bicycle accidents statewide in 2023, resulting in 540 injuries.
Many of these accidents are caused by negligence, including:
- Drivers failing to yield to cyclists: Neglecting to respect cyclists’ right-of-way puts them in immediate danger.
- Distracted or impaired driving: Drivers who text, use their phones, or drive under the influence are less likely to notice cyclists.
- Poor road conditions and inadequate bike lanes: Uneven surfaces, debris, or a lack of designated bike lanes may indicate negligence by municipal entities.
Virginia Code § 46.2-800 states that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. This includes the right to seek compensation if another party’s negligence causes an accident. An experienced lawyer can help you build a strong case to pursue compensation with a personal injury claim.
Who Is Usually at Fault If a Bicycle Is Involved in an Accident?
Determining fault in a bicycle accident is necessary to establish the party responsible for covering accident-related costs. Depending on the accident’s circumstances, at-fault parties may include:
- Drivers: Negligent behaviors such as speeding, failing to yield to cyclists, or engaging in distracted driving significantly increase the likelihood of accidents and make drivers liable for resulting damages and injuries.
- Cyclists: Cyclists may be at fault if they disobey traffic laws, such as running red lights or riding against traffic flow. These actions can make them legally responsible for the accident and liable for resulting injuries or property damage.
- Shared responsibility: Virginia’s contributory negligence rule can bar cyclists from recovering compensation. Even if you’re only partially at fault, you may face significant challenges in pursuing compensation in these cases.
With Virginia’s strict contributory negligence rule, legal expertise is essential to prove your case and protect your compensation claim. A knowledgeable attorney will help you overcome any fault challenges and maximize your compensation.
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What Happens If You Accidentally Hit Someone on a Bike?
Drivers involved in bicycle accidents have both legal and moral responsibilities. According to Virginia Code § 46.2-894, drivers must:
- Stop and provide aid: Remaining at the scene and assisting the injured party is a legal requirement.
- Notify authorities: Reporting the incident ensures the police file an accident report, which is critical evidence for legal and insurance purposes.
Failing to fulfill these duties can result in severe penalties, including civil liability or criminal charges for negligence. Both injured cyclists and at-fault drivers will benefit from legal guidance to protect their rights and navigate the legal process effectively.
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Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection cyclists have compared to other motor vehicle occupants. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractures and dislocations
- Road rash and lacerations
What Happens After a Bike Accident?
Knowing what to do after a bicycle accident can make a significant difference in your ability to recover compensation. Follow these steps:
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if injuries seem minor, a medical evaluation ensures proper treatment and documents your injuries for a legal claim.
2. Report the Accident
Filing a police report creates an official record of the incident, which can be critical evidence for your case.
3. Gather Evidence
Take photos of the scene, collect witness statements, and preserve any physical evidence, such as damaged bike parts or clothing.
4. Consult a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Early legal involvement helps protect your rights, navigate the claims process, and maximize your compensation.
Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims in Virginia Beach
After a bicycle accident in Virginia Beach, you may be entitled to recover several types of damages, including:
Economic Damages
Economic damages address the incident’s quantifiable, financial aspects. Medical expenses include compensation for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
Additionally, you can recover lost wages, which covers income lost due to missed work and reduced earning capacity.
Non-Economic Damages
On the other hand, non-economic damages compensate for the intangible effects of an accident. Pain and suffering addresses physical pain, emotional distress (like anxiety, depression, or PTSD), and reduced quality of life.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are only awarded in cases involving gross negligence, such as DUI-related accidents, to deter similar behavior in the future.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation — Local Attorneys with Strong Ties to Virginia Beach
Our bicycle accident lawyers are committed to helping accident victims recover the compensation they need to move forward in Virginia Beach. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Extensive experience in personal injury law: We bring a deep understanding of Virginia’s laws and over five decades of handling complex cases with proven results.
- Personalized strategies tailored to each client’s case: Your situation is unique, and we craft personalized approaches that reflect your specific needs and priorities.
- Commitment to holding negligent parties accountable: From identifying liable parties to advocating for full compensation, we fight tirelessly to secure justice on your behalf.
You can schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case with one of our team’s attorneys. During this meeting, we’ll evaluate your case, discuss your options, and outline a strategy to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us to get started.
Call or text 800-321-6741 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form