Bicyclist Seriously Injured in Traffic Collision on State Route 51
A bicyclist was seriously injured in a traffic collision with a motor vehicle on State Route 51 on August 10. The police report by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) stated that the accident occurred around 6:11 a.m. just south of the Watt Avenue exit ramp and involved a Ford Mustang. The bicyclist was reported as having suffered a major injury and was transported by emergency responders to a hospital. The accident is under investigation by the CHP to determine what happened.
Injuries in a Bicycle Accident
Because bicycle riders have little to no protection against a motor vehicle in a traffic collision, they often suffer devastating injuries or become a fatality. Over my years as an injury lawyer, I’ve successfully handled many accidents that have injured a bicycle rider. I strongly believe that no one should have to suffer an accident injury and have to bear the financial burden as well. Some of the most serious injuries that can occur when a bicycle rider is involved in a traffic collision are:
- Traumatic brain injuries can be a life-changing event in a person’s life. The injured person may spend a long period of time in the hospital and require extensive recuperation. In the worst-case scenario, the injuries may be so severe that the patient becomes comatose, loses their memory and ability to function normally, and cannot perform simple tasks. Some require around-the-clock care for years.
- Spinal cord damage is another serious injury that occurs to bicycle riders. Depending on the location of the trauma, the injured person may be partially or completely paralyzed.
- Psychological trauma from the accident can result in post-traumatic stress disorder. The injured person may have nightmares, suffer from depression, insomnia, and other symptoms. In some cases, it may lead to the person being fearful to go out in public.
- Bone fractures can be complex and serious, requiring multiple surgeries to repair. It can leave the rider unable to enjoy bicycling in the future and interfere with other tasks the person enjoyed before.
Bicycle Accident Claims
In a collision between a bicycle rider and motor vehicle, the bicyclist is often seriously injured. This can cause extensive hospitalization and high medical costs, the inability to work, and suffering by the rider. Over my many years as a Sacramento bicycle accident lawyer, I’ve been successful in handling many of these cases to obtain the financial compensation the injured party deserves.
Investigating a Traffic Collision Involving a Cyclist
It has to be shown that the at-fault party in the traffic collision caused the injuries for the bicycle rider to obtain compensation. Our investigative team collects the evidence needed to support an injury claim. Some of the areas in which an investigation is conducted include:
- Accident reconstruction is performed.
- Real-time video is sought from road and traffic cameras.
- Witnesses are interviewed as well as asking if any of them captured the accident on their phones.
- The bicycle is examined for defects, which could lead to a product liability lawsuit.
- The police report is examined for errors.
- Signs of negligence by the driver is sought, such as speeding, distracted or drunk driving, and others.
- Possible government negligence is looked for, such as confusing signage, potholes, and overgrown shrubbery.
This information is used by our lawyers to construct a case that supports financial compensation for our client. It can either be used in negotiations with the insurance carrier or in preparing a case for court.
Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer
I am Ed Smith, and I’m a Sacramento personal injury lawyer. Give me a call for my free and friendly advice at (916) 921-6400 or on the long-distance line at (800) 404-5400. The online form is another option that’s quick and easy, and I will call you back.
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Whether you’ve suffered a traumatic injury caused by any type of traffic collision or a loved one was lost to wrongful death, I’ve helped many Sacramento residents since 1982 and may be able to help you too.
Photo Attribution: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-riding-bicycle-on-city-street-310983/
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