A Bike Accident Attorney Representing Victims Hurt in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accident injuries can be some of the most severe of all traffic accident injuries. For these victims, it is imperative to seek representation from a bicycle accident lawyer with experience in bike accident cases. There are a host of differences that make bicycle accident injury cases different from other traffic accident cases. At Mark A. Hammer & Associates, Inc., we understand these differences and appreciate the severity of bicycle accident injuries. For three decades, we have represented accident victims throughout western Washington and Puget Sound. If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident, we are here to help.
Legal Help for Injuries Suffered
Bicycle riding is a popular form of transportation in Washington state and also a popular hobby for many people. Unfortunately, the increase in bicycle traffic has also resulted in an increase in bicycle accidents and fatalities. According to the most recent National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data, 618 bicyclists were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2010 and an additional 52,000 were injured. Bicyclist deaths accounted for nearly 2-percent of all traffic fatalities.
When a car hits a cyclist, the resulting injuries tend to be severe as bike riders have little protection against an impact with a vehicle, much like riders in motorcycle accidents. Bicycle accident injuries include fractures, sprains, dislocations, and tears to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, as well as more severe injuries including trauma to the head, neck, and spine, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, fractured vertebrae, and even the loss of a limb. These injuries may result in long-term if not permanent complications.
• Drunk driving − Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs puts not just the driver and his or her passengers in danger, but other motorists and pedestrians as well.
No single cause accounts for all bicycle accidents in western Washington, but drunk drivers always present a significant risk of injury or death to riders. If you are a bicyclist who has been injured in a auto accident, it is important to consult an experienced bike accident attorney to ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries. Our office has 30 years of experience helping accident victims recover for their injuries in Puget Sound.