Drivers, bicyclists, and scooters must share the road. However, every year, thousands of bicyclists and scooter riders suffer injuries in accidents, many of which are serious or even fatal. This is often on account of driver negligence and a lack of awareness. From broken bones to traumatic brain injuries, the list of potential harms to bicyclists and scooter riders is long. If you were injured in a bicycle or scooter accident, the bicycle/scooter accident lawyers at the Dow Law Firm in Austin, TX, will help you receive the compensation you deserve to get your life back on track.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
When a collision occurs between a bicycle and a 4,000 pound automobile, the bicyclist will invariably suffer far worse. Common bicycle accident injuries include:
- Head injury: Wearing a helmet is imperative, however, some bicyclists do not wear one, leading to traumatic brain injury (TBI) and death in certain accidents.
- Spinal cord injury: Collisions with vehicles can result in a loss of function in the spinal cord.
- Facial injury: Cosmetic procedures may be necessary to restore the appearance and functionality of the face after a bicycle accident.
- Broken bones: If a bicyclist is ejected over the handlebars and strikes a hard surface, this can lead to fractured bones.
The Importance of a Skilled Austin Bicycle Accident Attorney
Since both drivers and cyclists share a duty to respect the rules of the road, a cyclist may be eligible to recover damages if injured by a negligent driver. Negligence on the part of the driver may include running a stop light, speeding, driving while intoxicated, driving distracted, drifting into the bike lane, road rage, or any number of dangerous behaviors.
After an accident, you should first obtain medical attention, exchange information with the other driver, call the police, and document as much evidence as possible at the scene of the accident. Police reports, witness statements, and photographs are all invaluable pieces of evidence in supporting your case. One of our bicycle accident lawyers will review your case to establish liability. He will fight to maximize your compensation, including:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost income
- Diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
Normal Scooter Accident Injuries
Like bicyclists, scooter riders face significant risks on the road. The lack of protection makes them vulnerable to severe injuries in the event of a collision. Common scooter accident injuries include:
- Head injury: Despite helmet use, scooter riders can still suffer traumatic brain injuries due to the impact of vehicles or the ground.
- Fractures and broken bones: Falls and collisions can result in broken arms, legs, and other bones.
- Road rash: Sliding across pavement can cause severe abrasions, requiring extensive medical treatment.
- Spinal cord injury: High-impact crashes can lead to serious spinal injuries, potentially resulting in paralysis.
- Internal injuries: The blunt force trauma from a scooter accident can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Find a Skilled Austin Scooter Accident Attorney
Scooter accidents often involve complex legal issues, including the determination of liability and dealing with insurance companies. Negligent drivers who fail to see scooter riders, violate traffic laws, or drive recklessly are often responsible for these accidents.
Immediately after a scooter accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention, gather evidence, and contact the police. Documenting the accident scene with photos, obtaining witness statements, and filing a police report are vital steps in building a strong case. Our experienced scooter accident lawyers will investigate the accident, establish liability, and fight to secure maximum compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Contact an Austin Bicycle & Scooter Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle or scooter accident, don’t face the legal process alone. Trust the experienced Austin bicycle and scooter accident attorneys at Dow Law Firm to guide you through every step and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.