Experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill, SC
As the State of South Carolina extends its resources to include safe riding trails for bicyclists, including Central York County Route 1 and several Reservation Routes in and around York County, the South Carolina Traffic Safety Factbook reports that one bicyclist is killed every 21.5 days on our personal injury attorneys in Fort Mill, SC roadways, which accounts for nearly 17 bicycle accident deaths in our state annually.
While riding a bike with friends or family members may be getting safer throughout South Carolina, it is impossible to account for the number of negligent drivers whose impaired or reckless operation of a much larger, more dangerous vehicle can cause serious accidents and catastrophic injuries — even when you and other bicyclists nearby are doing everything right.
At the David W. Martin Law Group, our bicycle accident lawyers in Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill, provide experienced legal representation for families who have lost their loved ones in these tragic collisions, as well as focused legal care for those who have been injured in these crashes throughout the state.
We partner with injury victims to provide real-time legal solutions that allow us to hold the negligent driver accountable for their behavior while pursuing the financial recovery each of our injury clients deserves.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill, SC
Like other Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill car accidents, there is nothing common about being hit by a vehicle while riding your bike in Greenville County.
In most cases, bicycle accidents are caused by negligent drivers who catch the bicyclists off guard, which gives the rider little time to brace for impact.
Bicycle accidents are commonly caused by:
- Drivers failing to yield the right of way to bicyclists
- Impaired drivers
- Distracted drivers
- Speeding
- Aggressive or reckless driving
- Failing to allow enough room for bicyclists to share the roadway
- Drivers failing to check their surroundings, including looking for bicyclists entering/exiting parking lots, sidewalks, or driveways
Bicycle accidents can occur without notice in South Carolina, and no matter how yours happened, we would like to discuss your case to ensure you have the legal direction you need to make informed decisions about your financial future by explaining how we can pursue the negligent driver for your complete recovery needs.
What Are the Most Common Injuries Caused by Bicycle Accidents in Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill, SC?
Bicycle accident injuries often require long-term medical care, as the weight and size of a passenger vehicle is no match for a bicyclist who did not see the collision coming.
Even if a speeding driver can be seen passing through a red light, it is practically impossible for a bicyclist to foresee they will be the inadvertent target of a negligent collision.
Bicycle accidents and the injuries that result are, in a word, devastating.
Common South Carolina bicycle accident injuries may include, but are not limited to:
- Broken or crushed bones
- Facial injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Neck and spine injuries
- Neurological damage
- Organ damage
- Road rash or burn injuries
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Wrongful death
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 857 bicyclist deaths occurred throughout the country last year, a more than 6% increase from the previous year, which means the accident numbers are trending in the wrong direction.
If you have been hurt or have lost a loved one in a bicycle accident in Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill, SC, talk to our personal injury lawyers in Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill, SC today about the financial solutions we can pursue on your behalf from the negligent driver’s insurance coverage.
Our Fort Mill & Greenville, SC Personal Injury Law Firm Provide the Following Practice Area:
- Auto Accident
- Boat Accident
- Dog Bite
- Motorcycle Accident
- Pedestrian Accident
- Truck Accident
- Wrongful Death
- Slip & Fall
- Workers’ Compensation
- Medical Malpractice
- Sexual Abuse
- Nursing Home Negligence
Who Is More At-Risk for Being Injured in Bicycle Accidents in Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill, SC?
According to a bicycle accident study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control, bicyclists face a higher risk of crash-related injuries and fatalities than those riding in other vehicles, even though they only account for one percent of all trips in the U.S.
In the last year of the study, there were over 467,000 bicycle-related injuries throughout the U.S.
The results of the study concluded those most at-risk included:
- Children ages 5-14 and adolescents ages 15-19 had the highest rates of nonfatal bicycle-related injuries
- Adults aged 50 to 59 years had the highest rate of bicycle accident deaths
- Male rider fatalities occurred six times more often than female rider fatalities, and males were injured four times more often on bicycles than their female counterparts
When negligence is a factor, bicycle accidents, injuries, and fatalities can occur to even the most seasoned rider.
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a bicycle accident, contact our personal injury attorneys in Greenville, South Carolina today at (803) 548-2468 to discuss your case, so we can provide the legal guidance you need to hold the negligent driver responsible for your financial recovery.
How to Reduce Your Risk of a Bicycle Accident in Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill, SC
As people are seeking healthier and more eco-friendly lifestyles, the number of bicyclists on our South Carolina roadways will increase. Unfortunately, the rising number of bicyclists may directly correlate to the number of bicycle accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
At the David W. Martin Law Group, our bicycle accident lawyers in Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill, SC does more than represent injury victims who have been hurt by negligent drivers.
We provide tips to help keep our bicycling community safe, including:
- Ride a bike that fits you, as a bike that is too big may be difficult to control or maneuver
- Ride a bike that is functioning properly, by checking the chain, tire pressure, handlebars, brakes, and gears before every ride
- Ride one person per seat, with both hands on the handlebars, when not signaling a turn
- Wear protective equipment including a bicycle helmet while riding
- Wear clothing that will allow you to be seen by others, including bright clothing during the day and reflective gear and equipment at night, including front and rear lights
- Carry all items in a backpack or strapped to the back of the bike, not in your hands or arms
- Tie and tuck shoelaces and pant legs so they do not get caught in the bike’s chain
- Keep your distance from vehicles and other objects
- Follow the rules of the road to avoid accidents while gaining the respect of other drivers (i.e., do not weave in and out of traffic, or make unlawful maneuvers)
When you are riding to work or school or for exercise or pleasure, plan your riding route to maximize your safety. If you must travel as a vehicle on the road, choose routes with slower speeds and less traffic when a bike path is not available.
Finally, be vigilant. Keep your eyes and ears open and pay attention to vehicle operators, motorcyclists, semi-truck drivers, and pedestrians throughout your ride, so everyone can make it home safely.
Contact Our Fort Mill, Greenville & Rock Hill Bicycle Accident Attorneys Today for a consultation.
Bicycle accident injuries can be devastating and require full-time medical care to ensure you are getting the concentrated attention you deserve to seek the best physical and emotional outcome. Unfortunately, this specialized care is also expensive, and can quickly become financially overwhelming.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bicycle accident in South Carolina, contact our Greenville personal injury attorneys to discuss your injuries and the circumstances of your collision during a consultation by calling (803) 548-2468 today, so we can develop a unique strategy to pursue the negligent party for your full financial recovery.