There’s a sense of freedom that comes with getting out on your bike and breaking out of the confines of a manufactured steel box. However, the reality is that choosing to travel by bike increases your risk of being badly injured if an accident were to happen.
Though cyclists typically have the same rights as vehicles, our Bel Air, MD bicycle accident lawyer knows that there are times when drivers may act aggressively or carelessly around cyclists. The ramifications of a driver’s actions aren’t always present until it’s too late, which is why our legal team at Ketterer, Browne & Associates, LLC is motivated to hold another party accountable for your suffering.
Why Work With A Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
As with car and truck accidents, there are many aspects to consider when attempting to pinpoint who is liable. Some things to consider are insurance companies, traffic law, and bike law. There are even instances where a bicycle accident isn’t caused by a driver but perhaps road hazards such as debris left in the road, drains that aren’t covered, or inconspicuous potholes.
Teaming up with our Bel Air bicycle accident lawyer will allow you to look at your situation from multiple angles and give you a clearer idea of what types of reparations you should be seeking.
Causes Of Bicycle Accidents
Many accidents are preventable, and all it takes is a tiny lapse in judgment for a situation to turn dire. Below are frequent situations that result in bicycle accidents:
- Compromised Visibility. Whether due to inconvenient sunlight position or nighttime conditions, failure to see a pedestrian or cyclist while navigating your vehicle can have devastating consequences. There are also times when a biker may not have sufficient lighting for conditions. In these cases, liability might fall on the cyclist for not having the appropriate gear.
- Error Of Judgment. Even if a driver sees you, there’s no guarantee they will act accordingly. For example, if a driver is coming up to make a right turn at a green light and you’re in the bike lane parallel to them, quickly approaching to speed through the green light, they might see you but falsely think they can “beat” you through the light. Then there’s a chance you end up getting hit by them if you also have the same thought. Riding a bike often means you must always assume a driver doesn’t see you and take appropriate actions to protect yourself.
- Intentionally Striking. These occurrences aren’t as common as the above, but they do still happen. Drivers who may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol may display more erratic and aggressive driving which can lead to targeting cyclists. Maintaining a calm demeanor will likely be your best course of action in these cases.
If you feel you have been in a bicycle accident because of another person’s lack of care, please reach out to our Bel Air bicycle accident lawyer. Here at Ketterer, Browne & Associates, LLC we offer a free case evaluation and encourage you to contact us if you have any questions.
How We Support Bicycle Accident Victims
The Challenges After A Bicycle Accident
Bicycle accidents often leave victims dealing with severe injuries, unexpected medical bills, and significant emotional distress. Sharing the road with vehicles puts cyclists at risk, and even a moment of driver negligence can result in devastating outcomes. Whether it’s a careless driver, poorly maintained roads, or other hazards, the impact of a bicycle accident can ripple through every aspect of your life.
At Ketterer, Browne & Associates, LLC, we help injured cyclists regain control of their futures by pursuing justice and compensation. For those seeking a Bel Air, MD bicycle injury lawyer, or support elsewhere, we are committed to resolving conflicts that arise from physical and emotional harm.
Taking Legal Action For Injured Cyclists
Recovering from a bicycle accident can involve substantial medical care, long-term rehabilitation, and significant time away from work. These challenges are compounded when insurance companies fail to treat claims fairly. Our role is to step in and hold the responsible parties accountable.
We focus on building compelling cases by thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding each accident. This may include collecting eyewitness accounts, examining police reports, and consulting industry professionals to reconstruct the incident. By doing so, we establish the negligence that led to the injuries, creating a strong foundation for legal action.
Our clients’ stories are the centerpiece of every case we take on. For example, one client faced mounting medical bills after being struck by a distracted driver. Through diligent work, we secured a settlement that not only covered the expenses but also provided financial relief for future care.
Fighting For Justice And Compensation
The financial burden of a bicycle accident should not fall on the shoulders of the injured. Compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, and even intangible losses like emotional trauma and diminished quality of life. However, obtaining this compensation requires more than just submitting a claim—it requires a legal team dedicated to your recovery.
At KBA, we understand the challenges of these cases, and our track record speaks for itself. From serious injuries to wrongful death cases, we’ve helped clients recover millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. Our dedication goes beyond numbers; it’s about providing peace of mind and the resources needed to move forward.
A Nationally Recognized Team Advocating For Cyclists
Ketterer, Browne & Associates, LLC, with its home office in Maryland and attorneys licensed in multiple states, provides a blend of local dedication and nationwide reach. Whether in Bel Air, MD, or across the country, our team brings deep legal experience and compassionate advocacy to every case.
We know that every injured cyclist has a story, and we are here to bring it to light. By combining our legal knowledge with a genuine commitment to clients, we aim to deliver not only justice but also the assurance that their voices matter.
Contact Us To Get Started
If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident, we’re here to help. At Ketterer, Browne & Associates, LLC, our mission is to support your recovery, fight for the compensation you deserve, and bring justice to your case.
Reach out today to schedule a free consultation. Share your story with us, and let’s work together to make things right.
7 Steps To Take Right After A Bicycle Accident
Getting into a bicycle accident can be stressful, especially if injuries are involved. It’s important to know what steps to take in the moments afterward to protect your health and your rights. At KBA Attorneys, we’ve seen firsthand how a clear response early on can shape the outcome of a situation like this. Here are the first seven steps our Bel Air, MD bicycle accident lawyer recommends if you’re involved in a bicycle accident.
1. Move To A Safe Area If You Can
If you’re able, get out of the road or path of traffic. Safety comes first, so don’t try to move if you’re in pain or think you may be seriously injured. Signal for help or ask someone nearby to call 911. If you believe you have injured your neck or back, try not to move if possible.
2. Call For Medical Help
Even if you think you’re fine, it’s a good idea to get checked out. Some injuries show up later, especially head or internal injuries. Medical records are also important if you need to explain what happened later to a Bel Air bicycle accident lawyer. These kinds of records help establish your case.
3. Report The Incident
Call the police so that an official report is made. When officers arrive, give them your version of what happened without guessing or assigning blame. A written report provides a neutral record that can help later.
4. Get The Driver’s Information
If a vehicle was involved, collect the driver’s name, contact info, driver’s license number, vehicle plate number, and insurance details. Keep your communication brief and factual. Don’t discuss who was at fault. It is best not to contact their insurance, but if you do, just let them know they should speak with your attorney.
5. Talk To Witnesses
If anyone saw the accident happen, ask for their name and contact information. Eyewitnesses may provide helpful details later that support your side of the story. Their statements can also help your bicycle lawyer build a clearer timeline of events.
6. Take Photos
Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, your bike, the vehicle, road signs, and any injuries. These images provide a snapshot of what things looked like right after the incident and may be valuable when questions come up down the line.
7. Contact A Legal Professional
Once you’ve taken care of your medical needs and reported the incident, it’s a good time to speak with someone who handles these types of cases. A Bel Air bicycle accident lawyer can help you review your situation and determine what steps are available. From dealing with insurance companies to documenting injuries, having someone walk you through it can make the process clearer.
At KBA Attorneys, we’re proud to be recognized with a 10.0 Rating from Avvo and ranked by The Best Lawyers in America. We work with clients who’ve been injured in bicycle accidents and understand what’s involved in these cases. If you’ve been in a crash and need guidance on how to move forward, reach out to our team. We’re here to talk through what happened and help you decide what to do next.
