Bicycling is a popular and practical way to get around Lancaster, whether for commuting, exercise, or recreation. Unfortunately, cyclists face serious risks when sharing the road with motor vehicles. When a bicycle accident occurs, the injuries are often severe, life-changing, and emotionally overwhelming. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a cycling crash, a Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer at KaplunMarx can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Motorists have a legal duty to watch for cyclists and follow traffic laws designed to keep everyone safe. When drivers fail to yield, become distracted, or act recklessly, cyclists are often the ones who suffer the most serious consequences. Our firm represents injured bicyclists throughout Lancaster County, standing up to negligent drivers and insurance companies that try to minimize or deny valid claims.
Why Bicycle Accidents Are So Dangerous
Unlike drivers, cyclists have little protection during a collision. Even with helmets and safety gear, a bicyclist struck by a car, truck, or SUV absorbs the full force of impact. Many bicycle accidents involve secondary impacts as well, such as being thrown onto the pavement or into nearby objects.
In Lancaster, bicycle accidents frequently occur at intersections, along rural roads, near downtown traffic corridors, and on roads with limited bike infrastructure. Drivers may misjudge a cyclist’s speed, fail to check blind spots, or ignore bike lanes altogether. A Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer understands how these crashes happen and how to prove that a driver’s negligence caused your injuries.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Lancaster
Most bicycle accidents are preventable. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes, with drivers focusing on phones, navigation systems, or passengers instead of the road. Failure to yield is another frequent factor, particularly at intersections and crosswalks where cyclists have the right of way.
Drivers may also pass cyclists too closely, make unsafe turns, or open car doors into a cyclist’s path. Speeding increases both the likelihood of a collision and the severity of resulting injuries. In rural areas of Lancaster County, poor visibility, narrow roads, and inattentive driving can further increase risks for cyclists. A Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer can investigate these circumstances and identify all contributing factors.
Serious Injuries Common in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accident injuries are often severe and may require extensive medical treatment. Fractures of the arms, legs, collarbone, and ribs are common due to the force of impact. Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries can occur even when a helmet is worn, particularly in high-speed collisions.
Spinal injuries, including herniated discs and spinal cord damage, may result in chronic pain or permanent disability. Road rash, internal injuries, and soft tissue damage can also have long-term consequences. A Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer works with medical professionals to document the full extent of your injuries and ensure they are properly valued in your claim.
The Emotional and Financial Impact of a Bicycle Accident
The effects of a bicycle accident go far beyond physical injuries. Many cyclists experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress after a serious crash. Fear of riding again, changes in daily routines, and loss of independence can significantly affect quality of life.
Financial stress often follows. Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages can quickly add up, especially when injuries prevent a return to work. Insurance companies may attempt to downplay injuries or argue that the cyclist was partially at fault. A Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer can step in to protect you from these tactics and pursue compensation that reflects the true impact of your losses.
Dealing With Insurance Companies After a Bicycle Accident
Insurance companies frequently approach bicycle accident claims with skepticism. Adjusters may assume the cyclist was reckless or failed to follow traffic laws, even when evidence shows otherwise. These assumptions are often used to justify low settlement offers or claim denials.
Cyclists may be pressured to give recorded statements or accept quick settlements before their injuries are fully understood. Once a settlement is accepted, additional compensation is typically unavailable. Having a Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer handle all communications with insurance companies helps ensure your claim is presented accurately and fairly.
How a Lancaster Bicycle Accident Lawyer Builds Your Case
Successful bicycle accident claims require thorough investigation and strategic preparation. At KaplunMarx, our attorneys review police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident scene evidence to determine exactly how the crash occurred.
In some cases, accident reconstruction experts may be used to analyze vehicle speed, point of impact, and driver behavior. Medical experts may also provide insight into the long-term effects of injuries. A Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer uses this evidence to build a strong case designed to withstand insurance company challenges and succeed in negotiations or court.
Pennsylvania Bicycle Laws and Their Impact on Claims
Pennsylvania law provides important protections for cyclists, including requirements for motorists to share the road safely and yield when appropriate. Cyclists generally have the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicles, and drivers must respect bike lanes and safe passing distances.
Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence rules may affect bicycle accident claims. Insurance companies often attempt to assign partial blame to cyclists to reduce payouts. While compensation may be reduced if a cyclist is found partially at fault, recovery is still possible as long as the cyclist is not more than 50 percent responsible. A Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer can challenge unfair fault assessments and protect your right to compensation.
Compensation Available in Bicycle Accident Cases
Bicycle accident victims may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages. Medical expenses often include emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, and future care. Lost wages and reduced earning capacity are also important considerations, especially for cyclists facing long-term recovery.
Non-economic damages address pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving particularly reckless behavior, additional damages may be available. A Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer can evaluate your case and pursue compensation that reflects the full scope of your losses.
Wrongful Death Claims After Fatal Bicycle Accidents
Tragically, some bicycle accidents result in fatalities. When a cyclist is killed due to a driver’s negligence, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional impact of losing a loved one.
Wrongful death cases are emotionally and legally complex. Families are often grieving while facing financial uncertainty. A compassionate Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer can guide families through the process and fight for accountability on behalf of their loved one.
Why Local Representation Matters in Lancaster
Local experience can be a significant advantage in bicycle accident cases. Attorneys familiar with Lancaster understand local roadways, traffic patterns, and areas where bicycle accidents are more likely to occur. This knowledge can strengthen case strategy and improve outcomes.
KaplunMarx has extensive experience representing injured cyclists throughout Lancaster County. Our firm is committed to personalized service, thorough preparation, and aggressive advocacy for every client we serve.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
Seeking medical attention immediately after a bicycle accident is critical, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries, particularly head and internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Prompt treatment protects your health and creates a clear medical record linking your injuries to the accident.
Documenting the scene, reporting the accident to police, and gathering witness information can also support your claim. Consulting with a Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible ensures evidence is preserved and your rights are protected from the start.
Free Consultations and No Fee Unless We Win
KaplunMarx offers free consultations and represents bicycle accident victims on a contingency fee basis. You pay no legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. Our goal is to provide access to high-quality legal representation without adding financial stress.
Contact a Lancaster Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you were injured in a bicycle accident, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. A dedicated Lancaster bicycle accident lawyer at KaplunMarx is ready to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Contact KaplunMarx today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward recovery and justice.
