Birmingham Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Expert Legal Assistance for Bicycle Accident Victims in Birmingham, AL

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Birmingham, you need experienced legal representation to help you recover compensation for your injuries. At Mike Slocumb Law Firm, we understand the catastrophic impact a bicycle accident can have on your life, and we are dedicated to fighting for your rights. Our skilled Birmingham bicycle accident attorneys will work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable and secure your entitled compensation.

Call (205) 236-2502 or contact us online today to schedule a free case review with our team.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can happen for various reasons, many of which are caused by the negligence of motorists or other parties. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in Birmingham include:

• Distracted Driving: Motorists who text, talk on the phone, or engage in other distractions may fail to notice cyclists on the road.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who do not yield the right-of-way to bicyclists at intersections or crosswalks can cause serious accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
• Dooring Accidents: When a driver or passenger opens a car door without checking for cyclists, it can result in a serious crash.
• Drunk or Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to safely share the road with cyclists.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and inadequate signage can create hazards for bicyclists.
• Aggressive Driving: Some motorists fail to respect cyclists’ rights, leading to dangerous behaviors like tailgating, honking, or illegal passing.

Bicycle Laws in Alabama

Alabama has specific laws designed to protect cyclists and ensure they can safely share the road with motor vehicles. Some key bicycle laws in Alabama include:

• Right to the Road: Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists when using public roads, except on interstates and other restricted highways.
• Helmet Law: While Alabama law requires cyclists under 16 to wear a helmet, it is strongly recommended for all riders to enhance safety.
• Safe Passing Law: Motorists must provide at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist.
• Use of Bike Lanes: When available, cyclists should use designated bike lanes, but they are not legally required to do so.
• Lighting Requirements: Bicycles must have a white front light visible from at least 500 feet and a red rear reflector or light visible from at least 600 feet when riding at night.

If a driver violated any of these laws and caused your injury, they may be held liable for your damages.

Who is Liable for a Bicycle Accident?

Determining liability in a bicycle accident is crucial to recovering compensation. Various parties may be responsible, including:

• Negligent Drivers: If a motorist was distracted, speeding, or otherwise careless, they can be held liable for the accident.
• Municipalities: If poor road conditions, lack of proper signage, or malfunctioning traffic signals contributed to the crash, the local government may be responsible.
• Bicycle or Vehicle Manufacturers: If a defective bicycle or vehicle part caused the accident, the manufacturer may be held accountable.
• Other Cyclists or Pedestrians: In some cases, another cyclist or pedestrian may be at fault if they acted recklessly or negligently.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Bicycle accidents can lead to severe injuries and significant financial burdens. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income if you are unable to work due to your injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages such as physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Property Damage: Repairs or replacement costs for your bicycle and other damaged property.
• Wrongful Death Damages: If a loved one was fatally injured in a bicycle accident, surviving family members may pursue compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and more.

Our dedicated legal team will assess the full extent of your damages and fight for the financial recovery you need to move forward.

Contact us today at (205) 236-2502 to discuss your case with our Birmingham bicycle accident lawyers.