In our last post, we discussed a new report from the Governors Highway Safety Association revealing that fatal bicycle accidents are on the rise, particularly those involving adult men in urban areas.

Since bicycle traffic has increased over the years in New Haven the city has taken a few steps to try to improve bicycle safety and make it easier for bicyclists and vehicles to coexist on city roads. Unfortunately, though, accidents still happen.

When a bicyclist is involved in a collision with a motor vehicle he or she is often left seriously injured. Even wearing a helmet can’t always keep a bicyclist safe in a collision. Head injuries, spinal cord injuries, disbursement and even loss of limbs can easily result, changing the accident victim’s life forever.

 In many of these cases, the bicyclists had been doing everything right and following traffic laws only to be cut off, broad-sided or hit head-on by a negligent motorist. Examples of driver negligence include failing to yield to a bicyclist who has the right of way, failing to keep a proper lookout and making turns without looking.

In cases involving negligent motorists, the injured bicyclist may be able to pursue damages from the negligent motorist to help cover medical expenses, lost wages and other costs related to the accident.

In the most tragic bicycle accidents, ones that result in death, the family of the accident victim may also be entitled to damages from the negligent driver. These damages can help the family members get back on their feet as they cope with their loss.

Following a serious bicycle accident, victims shouldn’t rely on the driver’s insurance company to offer them a fair settlement. They should contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to find out what they are truly entitled to for their suffering.