Bicycle accidents in Wichita often result in serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and time away from work. When cyclists are injured due to driver negligence, poor road maintenance, or unsafe property conditions, they face complex legal and insurance processes while trying to recover.
At Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys, we represent cyclists who have been injured in traffic accidents throughout Wichita. Our legal team has successfully handled cases involving distracted driving, inadequate roadway design, and premises liability claims. We understand the specific challenges cyclists face when seeking compensation for their injuries, and we work to build strong cases that reflect the full impact of our clients' losses.
Our approach focuses on thorough investigation, expert witness testimony, and detailed documentation of medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care needs. We handle negotiations with insurance companies and, when necessary, are ready to present a case before a jury.
Understanding Bicycle Accident Claims in Wichita
Whether you were rear-ended by a passing motorist or injured by a poorly maintained sidewalk, the facts matter. Here’s what you need to know about filing a personal injury claim in Kansas.
Kansas and the Two-Year Statute of Limitations
Under Kansas law, most personal injury claims—including those from a bike accident—must be filed within two years of the incident. Wait too long, and your case may be barred entirely. This time limit exists to help preserve the quality of evidence and keep legal matters moving forward efficiently.
Comparative Fault and What It Means for Your Case
Kansas follows a comparative fault rule. That means if you're found partially at fault for the crash, your financial compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Defense attorneys often try to inflate your share of the blame. We've seen cases where a negligent driver ran a stop sign - hitting our client, yet their lawyers still tried to pin 20% of the fault on our client. That’s where a skilled injury lawyer steps in—to push back and show the full story.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Wichita
- Distracted driving
- Unsafe passing by motorists
- Rear-end accidents
- Drunk drivers
- Negligent property owners under premises liability
In one case we handled, our client hit a pothole while riding a scooter on a sidewalk. Although scooters are technically not allowed there, the city had neglected to fix the dangerous condition. We fought to keep the case in court—and succeeded.
Negligent sidewalk maintenance falls under premises liability. Property owners, including municipalities, have a duty to keep their property safe. When they don’t, and someone gets hurt, legal action may be warranted.
Common Injuries Cyclists Suffer After a Crash
Bicycle injuries often aren’t just bumps and bruises. Cyclists are exposed and vulnerable in a way motorists aren’t, which can lead to serious and sometimes life-altering injuries. Especially if not wearing a helmet:
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Soft tissue damage
- Death
We once worked with a client who didn’t feel any major pain immediately after the crash, only to discover a torn ligament in his wrist a week later. That’s why early medical attention is so critical—not just for your health but to document injuries and prevent an insurance company from arguing you weren’t really hurt.
Documentation and Building a Strong Case
If possible, gather:
- Police accident report
- Photos of the crash site
- Witness names and contact info
- Any available surveillance or dashcam footage
All of these help us conduct a thorough investigation. In one case involving a garbage truck, we proved liability using dashcam footage that contradicted the initial police report. Details matter. And they can make or break your case.
Don’t Overlook Non-Economic Damages
Many injury victims focus only on medical bills and lost wages. But in most personal injury cases, you may also seek damages for:
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term physical therapy needs
At Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys, we work to portray your full story—how the accident changed your day-to-day life. That’s often what resonates most with a jury or claims adjuster.
Dealing With the Insurance Company
Most clients don’t realize just how aggressive some insurers can be. Their job is to minimize payouts. Our job is to pursue fair compensation by showing them why your case could be worth more than the initial offer.
We start with a demand letter, summarizing your injuries, treatment, liability, and the impact on your life. If negotiations stall, we’re prepared to file suit and take your case to trial.
Insurance companies respect trial lawyers because we’re not afraid to let a jury decide when settlement offers fall short.
Bicycle Accidents Involving Drunk Drivers or Hit-and-Runs
When a drunk driver causes the crash, punitive damages may come into play. These are meant to punish reckless conduct and discourage others from doing the same.
In hit-and-run cases, uninsured motorist coverage on your own auto policy may step in. This part of the legal process can be confusing. A personal injury attorney helps injury victims understand what their policies cover and how to move forward when the at-fault driver can’t be identified.
The Legal Process and What to Expect
How Long Will It Take?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. A clear-cut case might resolve in months. A contested claim involving severe injuries could take years. The complexity of the evidence, willingness of the insurance company to settle, and court backlogs all play a role.
What Happens If Your Case Goes to Trial?
If a settlement can’t be reached, our team prepares your case for trial. That includes:
- Interviewing witnesses
- Deposing experts
- Preparing you to testify
- Submitting evidence and exhibits
Our Broader Practice Areas
At Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys, bicycle cases are just one part of what we do. We also handle:
- Car crashes
- Dog bites
- Premises liability
- Spinal cord injuries
- Wrongful death claims
Whatever the situation, our approach is the same: listen to your story, explain your legal rights, and work diligently toward a resolution that supports your recovery.
Call a Wichita Bicycle Injury Lawyer for a Free Consultation
You don’t have to face this alone. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bike accident, contact Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and help you decide what steps to take next.
We work on a contingency basis. That means you pay no legal fees unless we recover for you.
We strive to understand your story, pursue your best interests, and walk you through the legal process with clarity and care.