Using a bicycle offers many benefits, but whether you’re riding for enjoyment or taking your bike to work, one careless driver can trigger devastating harm. Located in Bloomfield Hills, The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C. pursues compensation for cyclists who have been injured in collisions with other vehicles. Without the protection that someone in a car or truck has, plaintiffs in these cases often suffer extensive physical harm. Having served Oakland County and other Michigan locations for more than 25 years, our firm knows how to fight for victims of severe and long-term injuries. We don’t let up and won’t be intimidated when pursuing full compensation for clients who’ve been struck while riding their bicycle.
Don’t face the aftermath of a bicycle accident alone. Contact The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C today at 248-885-6614 to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
From the time a bicycle accident victim comes to us for help, our personal injury firm works to build the strongest possible argument on their behalf. We review the facts closely to find what led up to the crash. Common causes of cyclist injuries include:
- Distracted drivers — Someone who isn’t paying full attention behind the wheel is dangerous to everyone on the road, and it is much more difficult for a driver to see a bicycle out of the corner of their eye as opposed to a car or truck. We thoroughly review the facts to see if a motorist was using their cell phone, eating or focused on some other distraction when they hit the cyclist.
- Poor conditions — Hazards which operators of larger vehicles might safely ignore, such as poor road surfaces or debris on the ground, pose a much greater risk to bicycle riders. Sometimes the problem is the direct cause of an accident. In other instances, a cyclist might be forced to swerve toward traffic in order to avoid the danger.
- Opening driver-side doors — A careless person who fully extends their driver-side door while opening it might not give a bicycle rider enough time to avoid a crash.
The days and weeks following a serious collision can be painful and frustrating, especially if you’re unable to work. We won’t let you be misled or pressured into an unfair settlement, and we won’t charge attorney’s fees until you receive a financial recovery.
Common injuries suffered by bicycle riders
People who are hurt while riding bicycles can suffer various types of physical harm, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, serious abrasions and damage to internal organs. In more serious cases, the victim might experience irreversible damage, such as paralysis or the loss of a limb. We don’t just look at current medical bills when presenting a demand to a defendant, but also determine what type of future costs might be related to the incident. Our firm also handles wrongful death actions when a bicycle accident is fatal.
Proving Fault in Bicycle Accident Cases
Careless drivers sometimes try to claim that a bicycle rider should be blamed for their own injuries, but we have the experience and resources to demonstrate what truly occurred. As part of your case, we will battle to obtain the highest possible compensation for you, which can include damages for medical bills, income lost while you were out of work due to your injury, replacement of your bicycle and noneconomic damages, such as the physical pain and mental anguish you endured as a result of the accident.
Detroit Bicycle Accident Statistics
Bicycle accidents in Detroit have been a growing concern, especially as cycling becomes a more popular mode of transportation. Recent statistics reveal a troubling trend regarding bicycle safety in the region:
- Increase in Bicycle-Involved Crashes: In 2023, Michigan saw a 10% rise in bicycle-involved crashes, with a total of 1,480 incidents reported, up from 1,340 in 2022(State of Michigan | Michigan.gov). This surge underscores the increasing risks cyclists face on the roads.
- Fatalities: Despite the rise in accidents, cyclist fatalities have decreased significantly, falling by 33% to 24 deaths in 2023 from 36 in the previous year(State of Michigan | Michigan.gov). This reduction in fatalities may indicate improved safety measures or changes in cycling practices.
- Overall Traffic Trends: While total traffic crashes decreased slightly overall by 2% in 2023, the increase in incidents involving vulnerable road users, including cyclists, highlights an urgent need for enhanced safety measures(State of Michigan | Michigan.gov).
Contact our firm for a free consultation
The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C. assists victims of bicycle accidents in Oakland County and the surrounding areas. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your legal options, please call 248-885-6614 or contact us online. We are in Bloomfield Hills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident?
If you’re involved in a bicycle accident, prioritize your safety and well-being. Move to a safe location, if possible, and check for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention. Gather information from involved parties, witnesses, and document the scene with photos if you can.
How can I prove fault in a bicycle accident?
Proving fault typically involves collecting evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and photographs of the accident scene. An attorney can help investigate the circumstances and gather necessary documentation to establish liability.
What types of compensation can I receive after a bicycle accident?
Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage (including bicycle repair or replacement), and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. Each case is unique, so it’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney to assess your situation.
Are there specific laws for cyclists in Michigan?
Yes, Michigan has specific laws governing cyclist behavior, including rules about riding on roadways, using bike lanes, and wearing helmets. Cyclists are generally required to follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles and should be aware of local regulations to ensure their safety.