Columbia Bicycle Accident Lawyer –Fighting for Injured Cyclists’ Rights
Find Out if You Have a Case
Columbia Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Do You Need a Columbia Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
Bicycle accidents are a common and unfortunate reality, often caused by motorists failing to watch for cyclists or disregarding traffic rules designed to protect them. When an unprotected cyclist is struck by a car, truck, or other vehicle, the resulting injuries and damages can be life-altering.
If you suffered injuries in a bicycle collision, it may be worthwhile to consult a knowledgeable St. Louis County bicycle accident lawyer. Depending upon the circumstances of your accident, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your damages. To find out more about obtaining payment for your damages, schedule a consultation today with a Columbia bicycle accident lawyer.
Bicycle Culture in Columbia
With its scenic views and historic landmarks, Columbia is a top city for bicycling. However, increased cycling has led to more accidents, often causing significant injuries. Nationwide, nearly 50,000 cyclists are seriously injured in motor vehicle accidents each year, according to the NHTSA.
Bicycle accidents can severely impact victims' quality of life and create financial strain from mounting medical expenses. A skilled Columbia bicycle accident lawyer can help victims recover damages and regain stability.
Award-Winning Columbia Accident Lawyer Recognized for Excellence
Tyson Mutrux is recognized for delivering outstanding results in personal injury law. With years of experience managing complex cases, he brings a deep understanding of Missouri law and a client-first approach to every case. His dedication to justice and strong advocacy skills have earned both client loyalty and the respect of fellow attorneys. Because of his consistent results and tireless commitment, Tyson is regarded as one of the most trusted legal professionals in the region.
At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, our commitment to you begins the moment we accept your case. We believe in your story and we show it by covering upfront costs, digging deep into investigations, and preparing every case like it’s going to trial. You deserve representation that’s not only strategic but also compassionate.
Tyson Mutrux is recognized for delivering outstanding results in personal injury law. With years of experience managing complex cases, he brings a deep understanding of Missouri law and a client-first approach to every case. His dedication to justice and strong advocacy skills have earned both client loyalty and the respect of fellow attorneys. Because of his consistent results and tireless commitment, Tyson is regarded as one of the most trusted legal professionals in the region.
Easy Acces To Affordable Any Legal Solutions
Speak to our Columbia Bike Wreck Lawyer
(888) 550-4026
The Bike St. Loius Organization
Columbia: A City Striving for Bicycle-Friendly Roads
For over 20 years, Columbia has been working toward becoming a more welcoming city for bicyclists. This effort led to the creation of the grassroots organization Bike Columbia, which focuses on improving resources and infrastructure for cyclists across the city.
A major milestone for the organization came in April 2014, when 56 miles of existing bike routes were upgraded, and 52 additional miles were added to the city’s cycling network. These improvements reflect the city’s ongoing commitment to fostering a safer and more accessible environment for bicyclists.
What Risks Do Bicyclists Face In Columbia?
Bicycling throughout Columbia has become one of the premier modes of transportation for getting around the city. However, bicyclists often share the road with motor vehicles, creating a hotspot for accidents throughout the city. This can pose significant injury risk or even death to the cyclist if they are involved in an accident. According to the National Safety Council, of the 1,230 bicyclist deaths in 2021, 853 involved a motor vehicle. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, our Columbia bicycle accident lawyers are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Hazards to Cyclists In Columbia
Cyclists in Columbia face numerous hazards while navigating the city. Most choose to travel on the road rather than the sidewalk, often sharing space with cars and trucks. While some roadways include designated bike lanes to create a safer separation between cyclists and motor vehicles, many areas lack this infrastructure, forcing cyclists to ride alongside traffic.
Bicyclists who traverse the city using the roadways are put at increased risk of serious injury or death in the event of a collision with a motor vehicle. Some of the hazards include:
Parked cars might not seem like an obvious hazard, but they often create significant risks for cyclists in Columbia. One common danger arises when someone opens a car door directly into a cyclist’s path. If the cyclist fails to react quickly, a collision becomes almost inevitable. Even when avoiding the door, the cyclist might swerve into oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of severe injury.
If you’ve lived in Columbia for a while, you know how congested the roads can get, especially during rush hour. Motorists often attempt risky maneuvers to bypass traffic, disrupting a bicyclist’s right of way. These actions make it harder for cyclists to avoid accidents and increase their risk of injury.
Unfortunately, many motor vehicles fail to respect the bicyclist’s right of way and often cross into the bike lane to get ahead in traffic, putting cyclists at risk of injury. The risk increases, especially during adverse weather conditions or at night.
Because cyclists in St. Louis travel much slower than motor vehicles, this can lead to impatient motorists attempting to pass them without regard for their safety or well-being. As a St. Louis bicycle accident lawyer, this seems to be one of the most common types of incidents.
If you are an avid cyclist, you know that it is common to ride in large groups. Although one might think this would improve overall awareness of the cyclists, if one cyclist has an accident with a motor vehicle, it can cause the riders behind them to crash as well, causing significant injury or even death to the unsuspecting cyclist.
Debris in the road is a common cause of injury for cyclists, as small debris on the roadway can cause an incident. Debris, such as rocks or cracks in the road, could cause a cyclist to lose control. This could result in the rider either falling from their bike or causing them to swerve into traffic.
The weather in St. Louis can be unpredictable at times and could pose a significant risk to cyclists, resulting in a bicycle accident. Conditions such as wet roads, snow, and other weather-related elements can cause reduced visibility, lost traction, and one of the most common, motor vehicles not noticing the cyclist until it’s too late.
Have you been involved in a bicycle accident? Our Columbia bicycle accident lawyers are here to help! We can help you recover the compensation you deserve and ensure you have the best representation possible.
What Causes The Most Bicycle Accidents in Columbia?
Staggering Statistics on Cyclist Fatalities
The mortality rate for cyclists in the United States reveals alarming trends. Most fatal incidents involve collisions with motor vehicles, often caused by distracted drivers or those who disregard a bicyclist’s right of way. These mistakes can have devastating, sometimes deadly, consequences for cyclists.
Here are some common driver errors that put cyclists at risk:
- Distracted Driving: Tragedy can happen in a split second. Drivers who glance away from the road may fail to notice cyclists, especially since bikes are harder to spot than cars. For instance, a distracted driver might strike a cyclist while crossing an intersection.
- Drunk Driving: Drivers who choose to drink and drive create significant risks for everyone, but cyclists face even greater dangers due to their vulnerability. A collision in these circumstances can lead to life-altering injuries or worse.
- Impatient Driving: Cyclists travel at slower speeds, which can frustrate some motorists. Impatient drivers often attempt risky maneuvers to pass, increasing the chances of a deadly accident.
Columbia Bicycle Accident Statistics
It is unfortunate that bicycle accidents are actually quite common throughout Columbia. According to St. Louis.gov, this is how common bicycle accidents are throughout the city:
- Throughout the country in the year 2015, there were a staggering 467,000 bicycle-related injuries
- 88% of fatal bicycle accidents are men
- On average, the cost of bicycle injuries has skyrocketed to $ 4 billion nationwide
- Over 800 bicycle-related injuries occur annually.
“Tyson is professional, committed, friendly and explains everything well. They allowed me to reflect on the alternatives and fully advised me of my rights. They also gave me time to decide whether or not to hire them. I really felt I was in good hands when they held my case and I proved it right! They reached a favorable outcome that allowed me to be at home with my kids.” – Emily J.
What Injuries are Sustained in a Columbia Bicycle Crash?
The Serious Injuries Cyclists Face in Accidents
When cyclists collide with motor vehicles, they often sustain severe injuries, even if they wear protective gear like helmets required by law. Unfortunately, the sheer force of such accidents typically results in significant harm to the cyclist.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer a traumatic brain injury. This type of injury is particularly dangerous as it can impair motor skills and essential functions necessary for a good quality of life.Spinal Cord Injury
Injuries to the spinal cord, such as a broken back or neck, can be life-altering. These often occur when cyclists are hit by vehicles, as the impact exerts immense force on the body.Road Rash (Abrasion)
Cyclists who fall onto the road often experience abrasions, commonly called road rash. These injuries, though less severe, can be extremely painful and require significant care to prevent infection.Broken Bones
When cyclists fall, they instinctively try to brace for impact. This can lead to fractures or broken bones, which may require extensive medical attention and recovery time.Internal Injuries
Collisions with vehicles or other objects can cause damage to internal organs. These injuries often result in long-term complications, significantly affecting the victim’s life.
How Could a Victim Establish Liability in a Cycling Accident Claim?
Proving Negligence in Bicycle Accident Cases
Motorists are often responsible for causing accidents, but insurance attorneys frequently try to shift the blame to the cyclist. To recover damages, an injured cyclist must demonstrate that the accident occurred due to the negligence of others.
Collecting Evidence to Prove Negligence
To establish negligence, it is essential to collect and preserve evidence of causation. Since the accident scene may change over time, cyclists should take photos as soon as possible after the incident. Valuable evidence includes video footage from nearby cameras, photographs of the scene, and statements from witnesses. A Columbia County bicycle accident lawyer can begin gathering and securing this evidence immediately to build a strong case.
What is Comparative Fault in Columbia County?
Comparative Fault and Compensation in Bicycle Accidents
Even if a cyclist is partially responsible for a collision, they may still be entitled to compensation for the harm caused by the accident.
Understanding Comparative Fault
Under Missouri’s comparative fault rules, an injured person can still seek compensation, even if they share some of the responsibility. However, the compensation amount will be reduced based on their degree of fault. For example, if a motorist is 90% at fault for failing to give enough space while passing a cyclist, and the cyclist is 10% at fault for not riding as close as possible to the curb, the cyclist’s damages would be reduced by 10%.
Columbia Bicycle Laws | Insights by bicycle crash lawyer
Understanding Bicycle Laws in Columbia
Staying familiar with Columbia bicycle laws is crucial for your safety. These laws not only help protect you but also ensure that you stay safe each time you ride through the city.
Bicycle Helmet Laws in Missouri
While Missouri state law does not mandate that cyclists wear helmets, local ordinances in cities and towns have their own regulations. In Columbia, for example, everyone under 16 must wear a helmet at all times.
Additionally, helmets used by cyclists must meet federal safety standards. They must be certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Head injuries are among the most common and severe injuries in bicycle accidents, but wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of such injuries, potentially preventing life-threatening trauma.
Bicycles are smaller and slower than other vehicles on the road, and riders do not have an enclosure around them to protect them in case of accidents. Recognizing this, lawmakers have enacted special rules to make it safer for bicycles to share the roads with motorized vehicles. These laws place some responsibilities on cyclists, others on motorists, and some requirements on both. For example, as per Mo. Rev. Stat. §307.192, bicyclists are required to signal turns just like motorists are required to do so.
According to Mo. Rev. Stat. §300.347, bicyclists are also permitted to ride on sidewalks if the sidewalk is not within a business district. In addition, Mo. Rev. Stat. §304.678 requires motor vehicles to provide a “safe distance” between their vehicle and a bicycle when passing a cyclist. Failure to do so could be used as grounds to prove negligence.
The law in Missouri allows cyclists to use the road if they are in a non-congested area. They are not, however, allowed to ride on interstate highways. Bicyclists have a duty to follow the laws of the road, such as stopping at red lights, yielding to pedestrians, and must ride on the right-hand side of the road.
Furthermore, bicycles must be equipped with reflectors when riding at night and must be equipped with brakes. If a bicycle lacks any of these features, fines could be handed down to the cyclist.
Knowing more about the bicycle laws in Columbia and Missouri can help you stay safe on the roads throughout the state and reduce the risk of harm in the event of an accident.
What Damages Are You Entitled to In a Bicycle Accident Case in Columbia?
If it is proven that the cyclist did not cause the accident, they could be entitled to compensation from the responsible party. Although a lawsuit is not always necessary, your Columbia bicycle accident attorney may need to step in and represent you in court if negotiations fail with the insurance company. Some of the most common damages that bicyclists can receive include:
- Medical costs
- Income loss
- Bicycle damage
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
- Reduced quality of life
Bicycle Crash Lawyer Blogs
Work with a Columbia Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
Seeking Compensation After a Bicycle Accident
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be eligible for compensation to cover medical expenses, including physical therapy, as well as future treatment needs. You can also seek compensation for lost wages and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress.
It’s crucial to consult with a skilled Columbia bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. An attorney can help you avoid making statements or taking actions that could harm your case and affect your ability to recover damages. For a free consultation, call us today to learn more.
Speak with a highly-qualified Columbia Bicycle crash attorney
(888) 550-4026
Columbia Bicycle Accident FAQs
FAQ
Find answers to common questions about bicycle accident
Are there any recent changes in Columbia laws or initiatives related to bicycle safety?
Columbia, like many cities, may periodically update or implement new initiatives related to bicycle safety, infrastructure improvement, or road-sharing guidelines. Staying informed about local ordinances and initiatives can be helpful.
What damages can I recover in a Columbia bicycle accident claim?
Victims of bicycle accidents in Columbia, MO, may be entitled to several forms of compensation, depending on the severity of their injuries and financial losses. Common recoverable damages include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and compensation for reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to work. You may also be eligible for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In serious cases involving reckless or drunk drivers, punitive damages might also apply. A Columbia bike wreck lawyer can help identify all possible sources of recovery to ensure you’re not left paying for someone else’s negligence.
How can a Columbia bike wreck lawyer help after a bicycle accident?
A Columbia bike wreck lawyer can make a major difference in how your case unfolds after a crash. They start by investigating the accident scene, collecting police reports, medical records, and witness statements to build a strong claim. Your lawyer also handles all communication with the insurance company to prevent adjusters from undervaluing your injuries. Beyond covering your immediate medical costs, an attorney works to recover damages for lost income, future medical needs, and pain and suffering. With a dedicated Columbia bicycle accident lawyer on your side, you can focus on your recovery while they fight to secure the full compensation you deserve.
What should I do if I suffered a head injury after a car or truck accident?
If you suspect a head injury after a crash, seek medical attention immediately, even if symptoms seem minor. Many traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are not visible right away. After receiving medical care, contact a St. Louis brain injury lawyer to preserve evidence, document your symptoms, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses and future care.
How does Missouri law protect bicyclists after an accident?
Missouri law recognizes bicyclists as legal vehicle operators, giving them the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. This means drivers must share the road and exercise caution when passing cyclists. If a driver violates these rules and causes a crash, they can be held liable for the resulting injuries and damages. Under Missouri’s comparative negligence law, even if a cyclist is found partially at fault, they can still recover a portion of their damages. A Missouri bicycle accident lawyer can help you understand how these laws apply to your case and ensure your rights are fully protected.
What should I do after a bicycle accident in Missouri?
After a bicycle accident in Missouri, your safety should come first. Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Then, document the scene by taking photos, gathering witness information, and reporting the crash to local authorities. Avoid discussing fault or giving statements to the driver’s insurance company before consulting an attorney. A Missouri bike wreck lawyer can guide you through the legal process, preserve crucial evidence, and handle negotiations with insurers to pursue fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, and emotional suffering.