How Common are Bicycle Accidents in Charlotte, North Carolina?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 800 bicycle-related fatalities occurred nationwide in 2019, and in 2020, more than 20 cyclists were killed on North Carolina roads. Four of those deaths occurred in the Charlotte area.

What are some North Carolina Bicycle Laws?

In North Carolina, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. However, some specific laws pertain to biking. For instance, it is illegal to ride a bicycle on a sidewalk unless it is explicitly marked as a bike path. Cyclists must also yield to pedestrians and give them the right of way.

Helmet Laws

No law in North Carolina requires cyclists to wear helmets while riding unless they are under 16. However, wearing a helmet is always advisable, as it can help reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a crash.

Equipment Requirements

Under North Carolina law, all bicycles must be equipped with front and rear lights if the bike is ridden at night. Cyclists must also have a white light on the front of their bike and a red reflector on the rear.

Bicycling While Drunk

It is illegal to operate a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in North Carolina. If you are caught riding your bike while impaired, you can face criminal charges.

Turning and Merging at Intersections

When turning or merging at intersections, cyclists must follow the same rules as motorists. This means they should use hand signals to indicate their intentions and wait until it is safe to proceed.

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, contact a Charlotte bicycle accident attorney today for help filing a claim. With experienced legal representation on your side, you can get the compensation you deserve.

What are Some Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

There are a variety of factors that can contribute to bicycle crashes. Some common causes include:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Drunk driving
• Running a red light or stop sign
• Failing to yield the right of way

If you have been injured in a bike crash, it is important to speak with a personal injury lawyer to find out your legal options. With the help of an attorney, you can file a claim and get the compensation you deserve.

What are Common Types of Charlotte Bicycle Accident Injuries?

Bicycle accidents can lead to serious injuries. Some common injuries include:

• Head and brain injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Lacerations

If you have been injured in a bike crash, it is important to seek medical attention right away. The sooner you receive treatment, the sooner you can recover from your injuries.

What are Challenges for Charlotte Area Bicyclist Injured in an Accident?

There are several challenges that Charlotte area bicyclists may face when they are injured in an accident. Some common challenges include:

• Proving negligence
• Gathering evidence
• Dealing with insurance companies
• Filing a lawsuit

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it is important to speak with an attorney who can help you overcome these challenges. With the help of an attorney, you can get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

How is Negligence Defined in Charlotte Bicycle Crashes?

To file a successful personal injury claim, you will need to prove that the other party was negligent. This means that they failed to exercise a reasonable level of care, and this failure led to your injuries.

There are various ways that negligence can occur in a bicycle accident. For instance, if a driver fails to yield the right of way or runs a red light, they may be considered negligent. If you can prove that the other party was negligent, you may be able to get compensation for your injuries.

Proving Liability in a Charlotte Bicycle Accident Case

Once you have proven that the other party was negligent, you will need to prove that their negligence led to your injuries. This means that you will need to show that the accident would not have occurred if it were not for the other party’s negligence.

If you can prove that the other party is liable for your injuries, you may be able to get compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How to Prove Negligence in a Charlotte Bicycle Accident Case?

There are several ways to prove negligence in a bicycle accident case. Some common methods include:

• Witness testimony
• Police reports
• Photos and videos of the scene
• Medical records

If you have been injured in a bike crash, it is important to speak with an attorney who can help you gather the evidence you need to prove negligence. With the help of an attorney, you can get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Is There a Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accident Claims?

Yes, there are deadlines for recovering damages in a Charlotte bike accident claim. In North Carolina, you generally have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit.  However, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible so that they can begin gathering evidence, work on proving and building your case and ensuring that the statute of limitations is protected.  

Evidence of Your Bicycle Accident Could Degrade Over Time

It is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after a bicycle accident because evidence can degrade over time. For instance, skid marks on the road may fade, and witnesses may forget what they saw or move out of the area making it difficult to find them or get them to cooperate.

If you wait too long to speak with an attorney, proving negligence and getting the compensation you deserve may be more difficult.

What Damages are Recoverable in Bicycle Accident Cases?

Injured cyclists can recover damages for their injuries. Some common damages that may be available in bicycle personal injury cases include:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

Is It Necessary to Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer?

No, it is not necessary to hire a bicycle accident lawyer to recover damages. However, hiring an attorney can be helpful because they will know how to navigate the legal system and build a case on your behalf. Also, bicycle accident claims are ripe for allegations of contributory negligence, which could bar you from recovery.  An attorney will also help you negotiate with insurance companies and get the compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Bicycle Accident Attorneys in Charlotte, NC.

Bike accidents can happen at any time, and if you have been injured in one due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you deserve fair compensation for your injuries. At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, we take on insurance companies and negotiate with them to ensure that you receive fair treatment. We are also not afraid to go to trial when it’s in our client’s best interest.

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you gather evidence, prove negligence, and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.