Bike Accident Lawyer Oregon

Bicycle Accident Injuries

When an automobile collides with a bicycle, the injuries can be severe and even fatal. Motorists are protected by the frame of their vehicles, but bicyclists do not have that protection. Their body takes the full impact and the consequences can be devastating.

Here are the most common injuries seen in bicycle accidents:

• Traumatic brain injury: About 75% of severe or fatal bike accidents result in traumatic brain injury. TBIs can leave you with long-lasting effects, including memory loss, sleep issues, headaches, concentration issues, and more. Wearing a helmet is the best thing a bicyclist can do to protect themselves from a traumatic brain injury.

• Burns: Engine parts and hot oil can burn bicyclists upon contact. 

• Cuts, lacerations, and road rash: Cuts and lacerations may require stitches. Road rash can cause permanent scarring. 

• Broken bones: Broken arms and legs are common, as well as dislocated joints and ruptured tendons. Some broken bones may need surgery and physical therapy to regain function. 

• Spinal cord injuries: Injury to the spine can result in loss of function and paralysis. The severity of the paralysis depends on where in the spine the injury occurred.  

Causes of Bike Accidents In Oregon

Under Oregon’s Rules of the Road, bicyclists are usually treated like motorists in that they are expected to obey Oregon traffic laws. However, because they are smaller and slower, certain laws have been passed to protect bicyclists. Bike lanes have been implemented all over Portland, and motorists must yield to bicyclists in bike lanes. Still, an average of one fatal bicycle accident occurs per month in Oregon. In fact, Oregon is one of the deadliest states for bicyclists. 

In order to stay safe, bicyclists should be aware of the most common causes of bike accidents. Here are a few of the most common ways bike accidents occur with a vehicle:

• Motorists speeding or driving too fast for the conditions of the road

• Drivers not yielding to bicyclists at stop signs or yield signs

• Distracted driving

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

• Aggressive driving, such as tailgating 

Unsafe road conditions with potholes and uneven roads, as well as debris in the road are other causes of bike accidents. However, the most severe bicycle accident injuries typically occur when a vehicle collides with a bike. 

What To Do After A Bicycle Accident

Nobody sets out on their bicycle expecting to get into an accident. But being prepared can protect you from the most severe consequences. If you’ve been in a bicycle accident, these are the steps you should take.

• Your first priority is to get medical attention. Bicycle accidents can cause severe injuries. Some injuries, like whiplash and traumatic brain injury, aren’t always apparent right away. Even if you feel fine, make sure to visit a doctor to rule out any hidden injuries. 

• Report the accident to law enforcement. Just like with an accident between two vehicles, the police will come to the scene to investigate. The officer will interview the driver, the bicyclist, and any witnesses to understand what happened. Make sure to get a copy of the police report afterward.

• Get information from the driver, including their name, phone number, and insurance information. 

• Take pictures of the scene. If you are well enough, you can take pictures before you get medical help. These can help you should you need to take your claim to court. 

• Document your injuries. Take pictures as they heal. Keep track of records from doctor’s visits.

• Talk with an experienced bike accident lawyer in Oregon. They will help you determine whether you have a case. They can advise you on how best to proceed to get the compensation you deserve.

Preventing Bicycle Accidents

Portland has done a lot to protect its bicyclists from severe accidents. Bike lanes installed throughout the city provide a designated lane for bicycles to ride. But accidents still happen. It is the responsibility of both drivers and bicyclists to prevent accidents. Here are some tips for preventing bicycle accidents.

Tips for drivers:

• Yield to bicyclists in bike lanes and on sidewalks.

• Always double-check your blind spot. Bikes are harder to see than motor vehicles. Double-checking can save a bicyclist's life. Remember to share the road!

• When passing a bicycle, pass to the left, giving them plenty of space.

Tips for bicyclists:

• Always wear a helmet.

• Wear brightly colored clothes, especially when riding at night. 

• Install lights and reflective gear on your bicycle. 

• Ride in bike lanes.

• Avoid dangerous areas, such as those with heavy traffic or construction zones.

• Do not assume that a driver sees you. Pay particular attention to vehicles that seem to be driving recklessly. 

Contact A Bike Accident Lawyer In Oregon Today

If you’ve been injured in a bike accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills as well as the pain and suffering you’ve experienced. Whether your injuries are broken bones or more serious head injuries, you didn’t ask to be hurt. At Powell Law, we have the experience you need to pursue the compensation you deserve. Call us today for a free consultation. 

*Nothing herein constitutes legal advice. You should obtain independent legal counsel regarding your specific factual situation.