Gainesville Bicycle Accident Attorney

Common Causes of Bike Accidents

Driver negligence is one of the leading causes of bicycle accidents in Georgia. Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Failure to yield: Drivers often misjudge or ignore a cyclist’s right of way, especially at intersections.
• Distracted driving: Texting, using GPS, or other distractions take drivers’ attention off the road.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to avoid collisions and increases the severity of injuries.
• Unsafe lane changes: Drivers who fail to check blind spots or crowd bike lanes put cyclists at risk.
• Dooring accidents: Cyclists can be hit when a parked driver opens a car door without checking for oncoming bikes.
• Driving under the influence: Alcohol or drugs impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and coordination.

No matter the cause, a skilled Gainesville bicycle accident attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and hold the negligent party accountable.

Common Types of Injuries

Because bicycles offer little protection compared to motor vehicles, cyclists are especially vulnerable to catastrophic injuries in a crash. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Head injuries and concussions – even with helmets, riders can suffer traumatic brain injuries.
• Spinal cord injuries – collisions can result in partial or complete paralysis.
• Fractures and broken bones – arms, legs, and collarbones are especially susceptible.
• Road rash and lacerations – skin injuries from sliding on pavement can lead to infections and scarring.
• Internal injuries – damage to organs from blunt force trauma can be life-threatening.
• Psychological trauma – many survivors struggle with anxiety, depression, or PTSD after an accident.

These injuries often require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and time away from work.

Compensation from a Bicycle Accident Claim

If your accident was caused by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Medical expenses – hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost income – wages lost while recovering and diminished earning capacity if you cannot return to work.
• Pain and suffering – compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Property damage – repair or replacement of your bicycle and other personal belongings.
• Wrongful death damages – if the accident resulted in a fatality, families may pursue funeral expenses, lost companionship, and other related damages.

Our team at Van Sant Law can help calculate the full extent of your losses and fight for a settlement or verdict that reflects your needs.