Rhode Island Injury Lawyer Representing Victims of Bicycle Accidents
The Pawtucket law office of Raymond A. Pacia represents bicyclists in personal injury claims arising from accidents with cars, trucks and other vehicles. We also have experience handling wrongful death actions on behalf of family members who have lost a loved one in a tragic bicycle accident.
Causes & Frequency of Pawtucket Bicycle Accidents
Bike riding for fun and as a daily mode of transportation is increasingly popular throughout Rhode Island, especially in Providence where people often bike to work or school. While cycling promotes a healthy lifestyle and a healthy environment, an unfortunate side effect of increased bike traffic is an increased number of bicycle accidents. 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% of all traffic fatalities.
Bicycle riders and automobile drivers follow the same rules and have the same responsibilities with regard to obeying traffic laws and taking general safety precautions. As many bicyclists know, however, motorists often fail to see them or fail to respect their right to share the road. Common causes of bicycle accidents include:
- Motor vehicle drivers making unsafe left or right turns
- Drivers misjudging the space needed to pass a bicycle
- Failure to yield to a bicyclist at an intersection or crosswalk
- Drivers opening car doors as a bicyclist passes (getting "doored")
- General distracted driving, such as cell phone use or texting
- Drunk driving
- Dangerous road conditions, such as potholes and worn paint on bike lanes
- Defective equipment, including helmets and bike parts
- Negligent or defective bike repair
When bicyclists are involved in an accident, injuries tend to be severe, as bike riders have very little to protect them when they are hit by a car or other larger vehicle. Victims may suffer from head injuries, spinal cord injuries, friction burns, fractured or dislocated bones, or even lost use of a limb. Attorney Ray Pacia has experience handling cases involving catastrophic injuries.
After a Bike Accident, Seek Advice from an Experienced Injury Lawyer
If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident, contact the law offices of Ray Pacia to speak with an experienced Rhode Island injury lawyer during a free initial consultation and interview. We will discuss your accident and any claims for compensation you may have. All legal fees are deferred until we recover money damages on your behalf.
