Cycling has become an increasingly popular form of transportation and recreation throughout Vancouver, Washington and the greater Clark County area. Whether commuting to work along the Columbia River trails, enjoying a weekend ride through the scenic neighborhoods of Camas and Washougal, or simply trying to reduce one’s carbon footprint when running errands around town, cyclists are a growing presence on our roadways. Unfortunately, when drivers fail to share the road responsibly, the consequences for cyclists can be devastating.
At VanWa Legal PLLC, we understand the unique vulnerabilities that cyclists face and the serious injuries that can result when negligent motorists cause bicycle accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured while riding a bicycle due to someone else’s carelessness, you have a lot of choices for a personal injury lawyer in Vancouver WA. We differentiate ourselves from the pack by being available, informative, compassionate, knowledgeable, and prepared to fight for the full compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we obtain a recovery on your behalf.
Call VanWa Legal PLLC today at (360) 397-7103 to discuss your bicycle accident claim.
Failure to Yield the Right of Way.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration consistently identifies failure to yield as the leading contributing factor in bicycle crashes. Drivers who do not recognize or respect a cyclist’s right to use the roadway often cause collisions at intersections, driveways, and when entering traffic from side streets.
Distracted Driving.
The proliferation of smartphones has created an epidemic of distracted driving. A driver who is texting or scrolling through apps may not see a cyclist until it is too late to avoid a collision. Even a moment of inattention can have devastating consequences for a vulnerable cyclist.
Dooring Accidents.
One of the most common and dangerous scenarios occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door directly into the path of an approaching cyclist. These incidents can launch a cyclist into traffic or cause them to strike the door at full speed, resulting in severe injuries including traumatic brain injuries.
Unsafe Passing.
Washington law requires motorists to maintain at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicycle, and to move into the left lane when possible. However, many drivers pass cyclists too closely, clip them with mirrors, or squeeze them against parked cars or curbs.
Left Turn and Right Hook Collisions.
When a driver turns left in front of an oncoming cyclist or makes a right turn across a cyclist’s path, the results are often catastrophic. These intersection crashes are particularly dangerous because they typically involve the full force of the vehicle striking the cyclist.
Impaired and Aggressive Driving.
Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose extreme dangers to cyclists, as do aggressive drivers who view cyclists as obstacles rather than legitimate road users.
Poor Road Conditions.
Potholes, debris, inadequate bike lanes, and poorly maintained road surfaces can cause cyclists to lose control or be forced into traffic. When government entities fail to maintain safe roadways, they may bear responsibility for resulting accidents.
Traumatic Brain Injuries.
Head trauma remains one of the most serious injuries in bicycle accidents. Even cyclists wearing helmets can suffer concussions, skull fractures, and brain contusions that result in permanent cognitive impairment.
Spinal Cord Injuries.
The violent forces involved can damage the spinal cord, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis and requiring a lifetime of medical care.
Broken Bones and Fractures.
Fractures to the arms, legs, wrists, collarbones, ribs, and pelvis are extremely common. Multiple fractures and those requiring surgical repair can necessitate lengthy recovery periods.
Internal Organ Damage.
The impact can cause internal bleeding and organ lacerations that may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening without prompt medical intervention.
Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries.
When cyclists are thrown from their bikes and slide across pavement, they can suffer severe abrasions requiring skin grafts and resulting in permanent scarring.
Medical Expenses.
Compensation can cover all reasonable medical costs including emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, medication, and ongoing care. Future medical expenses can also be recovered when injuries require long-term treatment.
Lost Income.
When injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for wages lost during recovery. For severe injuries, you may also recover damages for diminished earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering.
Beyond economic losses, you deserve compensation for physical pain and emotional distress, including the long-term impact on your quality of life.
Property Damage.
Compensation for damage to your bicycle and other personal property destroyed in the accident.
In cases where a loved one has been killed in a bicycle accident, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover damages for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
Seek Medical Attention.
Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel okay, seek medical evaluation—some serious injuries may not present obvious symptoms immediately. Prompt medical documentation also creates crucial evidence for your legal claim.
Report the Accident.
Contact law enforcement to ensure an official police report is filed, which becomes valuable evidence in establishing fault.
Document the Scene.
If possible, photograph the accident scene, your injuries, bicycle damage, the vehicle that struck you, and any road conditions that contributed to the accident. Collect contact information from witnesses.
Preserve Evidence.
Do not repair or dispose of your damaged bicycle until your attorney has documented it as evidence.
Be Careful with Insurance Companies.
Before providing recorded statements or accepting settlement offers, consult with an experienced bicycle accident attorney. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts or shift blame to cyclists.
Call VanWa Legal PLLC at (360) 397-7103 today to schedule your free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
VanWa Legal PLLC serves clients throughout Clark County, including Vancouver, Camas, Washougal, Battle Ground, Ridgefield, La Center, and surrounding communities. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured cyclists and holding negligent drivers accountable.