Accident between a bicycle and a car on the roadAt Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys, we have a combined half-century of trial and litigation experience. Our trusted attorneys are committed to seeking justice and fair compensation for every accident victim we represent. We understand your challenges and will work tirelessly to achieve the outcome you deserve. Contact our Wichita bike crash attorneys today for a free case evaluation.

Common Causes of Bike Accidents

Although multiple factors can contribute to bicycle accidents, they are often caused by careless or inattentive drivers. A motorist may not see a bicyclist or react too slowly to avoid a collision. The most common causes of bike crashes include the following:

  • Right-turn accidents When drivers do not slow down or stop before making right-hand turns, they risk hitting bicyclists crossing the street who have the right-of-way.
  • Backing-up accidents A driver backing out of a parking space should always check their rearview mirror for pedestrians and bicyclists behind them.
  • Distracted driving Distractions like texting, talking on a cell phone, or eating can take a motorist’s focus away from the road ahead. Distracted drivers might not notice bicyclists in their paths until it’s too late.
  • Dooring accidents A dooring accident occurs when a driver opens their car door in the path of an approaching bicyclist. After parking, drivers should always look before opening their doors.
  • Sideswipe collisions A driver can sideswipe a biker traveling alongside the vehicle if they drift or swerve into the bicycle lane.
  • Rear-end accidents Motorists who follow a bicyclist ahead of them too closely may not brake in time to avoid rear-ending the bicyclist, which can result in catastrophic injuries.
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Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents

Bicyclists often bear the brunt of car crash injuries because they do not have the protection provided by vehicles, such as seatbelts and airbags. The most common injuries in bicycle accidents include the following:

What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, there are some steps you can take in the aftermath to protect yourself and your legal rights:

  • Call 911 You should request emergency medical services and police. Responding officers will write an accident report that could become helpful evidence in your case.
  • Seek medical attention Even if your injuries seem minor, you should go to the hospital or see your doctor. Some symptoms can take days or weeks to appear. It’s best to see a doctor immediately to get an exam. Your medical record might be substantial evidence in proving your injuries.
  • Gather evidence If you can, secure evidence from the scene. Take photos of your injuries, vehicle damage, bicycle damage, road conditions, and street signs.
  • Get the driver’s information You should get the name, phone number, license plate number, driver’s license number, and insurance information of the driver who hit you.
  • Hire an attorney Getting help from a bike crash lawyer will increase your chances of pursuing maximum compensation for your injuries and other losses. An attorney can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and handle legal details so you can focus on healing.

How to Seek Compensation After a Bicycle Accident

A knowledgeable Wichita bicycle accident lawyer can review your case and determine your options for financial recovery. Multiple options may be available for seeking compensation after a bike crash, such as:

  • PIP insurance Personal injury protection (PIP) insurance covers medical bills and certain out-of-pocket expenses related to an accident, regardless of fault.
  • Liability insurance Kansas requires every motorist to carry liability coverage of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury.
  • UI/UIM insurance Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may provide compensation when an at-fault driver is uninsured or does not have enough coverage.
  • Personal injury lawsuit If you exceed insurance coverage for medical expenses and your injuries qualify as serious under Kansas law, you could file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver to pursue compensation.

Damages You May Recover as a Bicyclist Hurt in a Crash

If you were hit by a vehicle while riding your bicycle, you could be owed compensation. Depending on your circumstances, you could be compensated for the following losses:

  • Medical costs of treating your injuries, including hospital stays, doctor’s visits, physical therapy, counseling, medications, and medical equipment
  • Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working
  • Loss of future earning capacity if your injuries are permanent and you cannot return to work
  • Physical pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Costs of repairing or replacing damage to personal property

Contact Our Wichita Bicycle Accident Lawyers

If you were injured in a bicycle accident that was not your fault, you could be entitled to compensation for your losses. The trusted legal team at Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys has over 50 years of combined experience helping accident victims in Wichita and throughout Kansas seek the justice they deserve. Contact our Wichita bicycle injury lawyers today for a free initial consultation.