Bicycle wrecks can lead to catastrophic injuries due to the rider’s limited bodily protection. Individuals can suffer a wide range of common injuries from bicycle accidents in Orland Park. These injuries can result in the cyclist facing costly medical expenses and emotional trauma.
When you were injured in a bicycle crash caused by a driver’s careless actions, you should speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to discuss filing a lawsuit. A seasoned cycling collision attorney at Michael J. Brennan Injury and Accident Lawyer could help you pursue fair compensation for your damages.
The Causes of Bicycle Accidents
With the availability of electric bikes and bike share programs, many cities are seeing more people use bicycles for their everyday commute. Increased bike use inevitably raises the chances of injuries from crashes in Orland Park. A range of factors can contribute to bicycle collisions, including the following:
- Poor road design with no bicycle lanes or designated areas
- Adverse weather conditions
- Poor visibility or lighting
- A lack of road signs or traffic signals
Additionally, actions by other motorists can significantly increase the chance of a bicycle wreck. Some examples of driver actions that can lead to a collision are:
Bicycle wrecks are also more likely to occur in certain areas. The NHTSA reports that auto accidents involving bikes are most common in urban areas and intersections.
Common Injuries From Bicycle Crashes
Due to a cyclist’s limited outside protection, bicycle accidents can frequently lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Many common types of injuries suffered in a bike wreck can require surgery and extensive physical therapy and have a permanent impact on the individual’s health.
Common examples of minor injuries from a cycling collision in Orland Park include the following:
- Mild concussions
- Cuts, road rash, abrasions, and bruises
- Muscle strains
- Ligament sprains
- Whiplash
Some injuries that can permanently impact the cyclist’s health are:
In addition to the physical consequences, trauma from a bicycle wreck can take a toll on the injured party’s mental and emotional well-being. An event this severe can cause depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and fear of getting back on a bicycle.
Potential Damages From Bicycle Accidents
Individuals who have sustained common injuries in an Orland Park bicycle accident can recover damages to compensate for their losses. These can include economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages have a measurable value, including out-of-pocket losses such as:
- Medical expenses
- Physical therapy
- Property damage
- Lost wages or future economic opportunities
- Funeral or burial costs
Noneconomic damages are more challenging to quantify and include immeasurable losses like the following:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Loss of consortium with a partner or spouse
- Disability
- Disfigurement
- Loss of society or emotional support
If the bike collision resulted from intentional wrongdoing or highly reckless conduct without regard for the risk to the safety of others, a court may also find the defendant guilty of punitive damages. Punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant and deter similar actions in the future.
Ask an Orland Park Lawyer About Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Devastating bicycle crash injuries can have a significant impact on your life. Expensive medical bills and missing time from work can lead to financial difficulties and emotional struggles.
Contact a dedicated personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss the common injuries from bicycle accidents in Orland Park. Even if you believe your damages are minor, you still have the right to recover compensation for your suffering.
