Bicycle Accident Attorney

Securing Justice for Bicycle Accident Victims

Introduction to Bicycle Accident Law

Bicycle accident law is a distinct area within personal injury law that addresses incidents involving cyclists. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road due to their exposure and the limited physical protection they have compared to motorists. Legal claims involving bicycle accidents require an understanding of specific regulations, such as Arizona’s traffic laws, rights-of-way rules, helmet usage statutes, and principles of comparative negligence. At Garrison Law Firm, we are committed to helping injured cyclists understand their rights and pursue compensation through informed legal action.

Arizona Bicycle Accident Facts

Bicycle accidents present a significant safety concern in Arizona. According to state data:

In 2020, Arizona reported over 1,000 bicycle accidents.
Approximately 2% of all traffic-related fatalities in the state involved cyclists.
While many accidents occur in daylight, a notable portion happens at night, often due to limited visibility.

Frequent causes include collisions with motor vehicles, unsafe road conditions, and driver negligence, such as distracted or impaired driving.

These statistics underscore the serious risks that cyclists face while navigating public roads, especially when proper safety precautions and infrastructure are lacking.

Bicycle Collisions in Arizona: Your Rights and Key Laws

Bicycle collisions with motor vehicles can lead to serious injuries and complex legal issues. At Garrison Law Firm, we help injured bicyclists understand their rights and pursue fair compensation. Knowing the Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) that protect bicyclists is essential if you’ve been hit by a car.

Arizona Laws Protecting Bicyclists

Arizona law recognizes bicyclists as legitimate road users, granting them the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. Several statutes are especially important in the context of bicycle collisions:

ARS § 28-812: Bicyclists’ Rights and Duties

Bicyclists on roadways have the same rights and are subject to the same duties as drivers of vehicles.
Cyclists must obey all traffic signals, stop signs, and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.
Hand signals are required for turning or changing lanes.

ARS § 28-735: The Three-Foot Passing Law

Motorists must leave at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicycle in the same direction.
If a driver violates this law and causes injury, they may face a civil penalty of up to $500; if the violation results in death, the penalty can be up to $1,000.
These penalties do not apply if the cyclist was riding in a vehicle traffic lane while a designated, passable bike lane or path was available.

Other Relevant Statutes

ARS § 28-815: Cyclists must ride as far to the right as practicable, except when passing, turning left, or avoiding hazards. Riding two abreast is permitted only in certain circumstances.
ARS § 28-813 and § 28-816: Address equipment requirements and safe operation, such as having a proper seat, working brakes, and not carrying more passengers or items than the bike is designed for.
Local Helmet Laws: While Arizona does not require helmets statewide, some cities have helmet requirements for minors.

What These Laws Mean After a Collision

If a driver fails to give a bicyclist at least three feet of space and a collision occurs, the driver may be held liable under ARS § 28-735.
Bicyclists must also follow traffic laws; failure to do so can affect fault and compensation in an accident claim.
Both drivers and cyclists are expected to share the road responsibly. Violations by either party can impact the outcome of a personal injury case.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents often occur due to preventable factors, many of which involve driver negligence or unsafe roadway conditions. Common contributing causes include:

Motorist Inattention: Drivers who are distracted by mobile devices or otherwise not fully alert may fail to see cyclists in their vicinity, resulting in collisions.
Poor Road Conditions: Hazards such as potholes, debris, or uneven pavement can cause cyclists to lose control or veer into traffic.
Traffic Violations: When drivers run red lights, fail to yield, or make illegal turns, they can endanger nearby cyclists.
Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs increases the likelihood of serious accidents, particularly involving vulnerable road users like cyclists.
Inadequate Bicycle Infrastructure: In areas lacking dedicated bike lanes or clear signage, cyclists are often forced to share lanes with fast-moving traffic, raising the risk of collision.

Understanding the cause of an accident is essential to establishing liability and seeking appropriate compensation under Arizona law.

Challenges in Bicycle Accident Claims

Pursuing a personal injury claim after a bicycle accident can involve significant legal challenges. Cyclists may face implicit bias during investigations or legal proceedings, with assumptions unfairly made about their behavior or responsibility. Additionally, dealing with insurance companies can be complex, as policies vary and insurers may attempt to minimize payouts or dispute fault. An effective legal strategy is necessary to protect the rights of injured cyclists and ensure that all avenues for recovery are pursued.

Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims

Under Arizona law, injured cyclists may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, which can include:

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Rehabilitation and long-term care needs

At Garrison Law Firm, we conduct a thorough evaluation of each case to identify all possible sources of compensation. We aim to ensure that both immediate and future consequences of the accident are fully addressed in any settlement or court award.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Legal representation plays a critical role in the outcome of a bicycle accident claim. An experienced personal injury attorney can conduct a detailed investigation, gather supporting evidence, negotiate with insurers, and, if necessary, litigate the case in court. At Garrison Law Firm, we are committed to providing strategic and compassionate legal support to those injured in bicycle accidents, with a focus on achieving just and fair results.

Get the Support You Deserve — Contact Garrison Law Firm Today

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a bicycle accident, you deserve knowledgeable legal support to help you navigate the complexities of your case. Contact Garrison Law Firm at (623) 915-1100 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. We are here to guide you through the legal process and advocate for the compensation you need to move forward.