Montana Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Montana has many bike routes and lanes for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a cyclist looking for some exercise or a resident interested in a cost-effective type of travel, there are numerous areas and accessible accommodations for cyclists. A bicycle provides an inexpensive and environmentally friendly travel alternative while also offering an excellent source of exercise. However, while there are significant benefits to riding a bicycle, there are also many dangers that cyclists must keep in mind. 

Many Montana bicycle accidents occur because of a driver's negligent behavior. If you suffer severe personal injuries because of another person’s carelessness, seek legal representation with Morrison, Sherwood, Wilson, and Deola. Our Montana bicycle accident lawyers have years of combined experience protecting individuals within our communities and providing dependable legal services. A bicycle accident's medical and legal process is complicated, but having a legal professional guide you through each step will significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome.

4 Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Montana

Often, bicycle accidents are the result of careless drivers. While there are specific areas and designated lanes for bicyclists, drivers may still cause severe accidents. There are numerous causes of bicycle accidents in Montana, but the following are a few more common:

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a serious issue and is the cause of many accidents. Texting, fiddling with the radio, and turning to speak with a passenger are all examples of distracted driving. Any action that pulls the driver's eyes and attention away from the road is distracted driving and can result in life-threatening injuries.

Unsafe Lane Changes

When drivers need to change lanes, they must carefully evaluate whether it is safe and void of other vehicles and cyclists. However, when drivers weave through lanes without thoroughly checking for anyone, they risk accidentally hitting cyclists who are harder to spot than large vehicles. 

Speeding

Speed limits are there to protect everyone on the road. Speeding drivers may lose their ability to control their vehicles when unexpected situations occur. Due to their speed, they may not be able to stop their vehicle or move out of the way when they are heading toward a cyclist. The faster the speed, the higher the chance that a cyclist will suffer severe injuries.

Disregarding Road Rules

Not coming to a complete stop at intersections and running a red light are two common examples of drivers disregarding the road rules and putting others at risk. Intersections are common locations for bicyclist accidents and may leave a rider with fatal injuries. Drivers are responsible for following the rules and performing their due diligence when driving. 

Cyclists suffer severe risks while riding near motor vehicles. While they may take the necessary precautions for their safety, drivers may act recklessly and inflict dangerous harm on the rider. If you suffer harm due to another person’s negligence, contact a bicycle accident attorney in Montana as soon as possible. 

What Types of Injuries Can You Sustain in a Montana Bicycle Accident?

While drivers in motor vehicles have a metal cage and layer of protection in an accident, cyclists have very little safety equipment to protect them from significant harm. The following are some examples of injuries a rider may suffer after an accident with a motor vehicle. 

  • Fractures

  • Strains

  • Traumatic brain injuries

  • Road rash

  • Lacerations 

  • Concussions

  • Ruptured spleen

  • Hernia

  • Contusions

  • Cranial hemorrhage

  • Pancreatic trauma

A cyclist may suffer more types of harm than just physical injuries. A severe accident's emotional and mental strain can turn your life upside down. Talk with your bike accident lawyer in Montana about how the mental impact of your accident will affect your injury claim.

How a Montana Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help Your Injury Claim

An accident injury claim comes with various steps and elements to consider. While you recover from the serious injuries you sustain in an accident, our bicycle accident lawyers in Montana will provide trustworthy legal services and guide you through the legal process. Some of the many ways a legal representative can help your claim include:

  • Answering your questions

  • Investigating your claim

  • Advocating for your rights

  • Establishing responsibility

  • Collecting evidence and documentation

  • Negotiating settlement offers 

  • Communicating with insurance

  • Analyzing any legal issues

Gathering information, navigating the medical process, and developing a legal strategy take time and resources. The sooner you contact your bike accident lawyer, the more time they have to offer their opinion and knowledge. 

Speak With an Experienced Montana Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

The financial, physical, and emotional losses you incur from another person’s reckless behavior may turn your life upside down. Without a moment's notice, you may suffer severe injuries that stop you from enjoying the activities you once loved. Holding the driver responsible for their actions helps with the many burdens you face and punishes the driver for their behavior. 

Contact a bicycle accident lawyer at Morrison, Sherwood, Wilson, and Deola for legal representation you can rely on and trust. We understand the challenges you face and will do everything in our power to provide you with the best possible compensation. With years of experience protecting our clients' rights, we will provide you with the tools and resources you need for a successful claim. 

Talk with one of our team members at (406) 442-3261, or fill out our contact form today.