Cyclists in Sterling Heights face unique challenges on the road, from navigating traffic-heavy streets to dealing with drivers who may not always prioritize their safety. Unfortunately, these challenges can sometimes result in serious accidents, leaving victims with injuries, mounting medical bills, and the stress of dealing with insurance claims.
When an accident occurs, having an experienced Sterling Heights bicycle accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference. A dedicated attorney can help protect your rights, determine liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on healing and moving forward with your life.
Let a Khamo Law personal injury attorney from Sterling Heights fight to uphold your rights after an accident. Contact us at (248) 466-0606 or fill out the contact form to schedule your free consultation today.
Common Injuries Sustained in Sterling Heights Bicycle Accidents
Injuries sustained in bicycle accidents are often more severe compared to other types of accidents because cyclists lack the physical protection that motor vehicles provide. Unlike car occupants, cyclists are directly exposed to the impact of a collision and the ground, making even minor accidents potentially serious. Below are some common injuries and reasons why they are particularly severe in bicycle accidents:
Head and Brain Injuries
These include things like concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Even with a helmet, cyclists are highly vulnerable during a crash. A direct impact on the head can result in long-term cognitive impairment, memory loss, or emotional changes. Severe TBIs may require lifelong medical care and rehabilitation.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
Herniated discs, fractures, or spinal cord damage leading to paralysis are all common types of injuries.
A fall or collision can exert extreme force on the spine, leading to permanent damage. Spinal injuries can cause chronic pain, loss of mobility, or even paraplegia or quadriplegia, dramatically altering the victim’s quality of life.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Commonly fractured areas include wrists, arms, legs, collarbones, and ribs.
Cyclists often try to break their fall with their hands or arms, leading to fractures. Broken bones can require surgery, lengthy immobilization, and physical therapy. In severe cases, such as compound fractures, the recovery process is even more complicated.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries include damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, or lungs, and internal bleeding.
Internal injuries may not be immediately visible, making them particularly dangerous. Without prompt medical attention, these injuries can become life-threatening and lead to complications such as organ failure or infection.
Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Abrasions, cuts, and bruises; damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons are all examples of soft tissue injuries.
When a cyclist is thrown from their bike and skids across the pavement, severe road rash can occur. Deep abrasions may require skin grafts and can lead to permanent scarring or infection. Soft tissue injuries can cause prolonged pain and limited mobility.
Facial and Dental Injuries
A person may experience broken teeth, jaw fractures, facial lacerations, or disfigurement.
Cyclists involved in accidents often hit their faces during impact, leading to visible and painful injuries. Facial trauma may require reconstructive surgery or dental repairs and can leave lasting physical and emotional scars.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma
Injuries might include things like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety.
Beyond physical harm, bicycle accidents can leave lasting psychological effects. Victims may develop a fear of cycling or traveling near motor vehicles, which can affect their independence and mental health.
Why Bicycle Accidents Result in More Serious Injuries
- Lack of Protection: Cyclists have no seat belts, airbags, or structural barriers to shield them from the impact.
- Exposure to Impact Forces: In a collision, cyclists are often thrown from their bikes, leading to secondary injuries from hitting the ground or other objects.
- Speed Disparities: The speed difference between bicycles and motor vehicles means collisions can exert significant force on a cyclist.
- Heightened Vulnerability to Surroundings: Cyclists are at risk not only from vehicles but also from stationary objects like curbs, poles, or guardrails during a crash.
- Secondary Injuries: After the initial impact, cyclists may suffer additional harm from being run over or struck by another vehicle.
Causes of Sterling Heights Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents in Sterling Heights are often caused by a combination of factors that make shared roadways hazardous for cyclists.
- Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, eating, or otherwise not paying full attention to the road frequently fail to notice cyclists, especially at intersections or in busy urban environments.
- Speeding and reckless driving: Drivers traveling at high speeds have less time to react to cyclists. Aggressive behaviors, like overtaking or failing to yield, increase the likelihood of severe accidents, putting cyclists in danger.
- Unsafe road conditions: Potholes, debris, and uneven pavement create dangerous obstacles for cyclists who are more affected by these hazards than vehicle drivers. Inclement weather, such as rain or snow, can make these conditions even more treacherous, reducing traction and visibility.
- Failure to obey traffic laws: Motorists who run red lights, ignore stop signs, or fail to signal turns often create dangerous situations for cyclists. This is compounded by limited visibility, especially at night or during bad weather. Poorly lit streets and drivers who fail to use headlights make it nearly impossible for cyclists to be seen.
- Dooring: When a parked vehicle’s door is opened into the path of an oncoming cyclist. This is common in areas with high pedestrian and parking activity, leading to sudden and often severe collisions.
- Intoxicated driving: This remains a major factor in accidents involving cyclists. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have impaired judgment and slower reaction times, making collisions more likely. Additionally, a lack of awareness or education among both drivers and cyclists about their respective rights and responsibilities on the road often leads to confusion about right-of-way, increasing the chances of accidents.
These contributing factors highlight the many challenges cyclists face on Sterling Heights’ roads. When accidents occur, understanding these causes is critical in determining liability and pursuing justice. Whether your case involves a bicycle crash or a motor vehicle collision, a Sterling Heights car accident lawyer can be a vital resource in helping you pursue fair compensation. Khamo Law can investigate these factors to build a strong case and ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Contact a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Sterling Heights Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Sterling Heights, don’t face the aftermath alone. At Khamo Law, we understand the challenges you’re dealing with and are here to help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Let our experienced legal team handle the complexities of your case while you focus on your recovery.
Call our dedicated teams of Sterling Heights bicycle accident lawyers today at (248) 466-0606 or contact us online to schedule a complimentary consultation. Your path to justice starts with a single step – reach out now!