Portland Bicycle Accident Attorney

Protecting Injured Cyclists’ Rights

Bicycle Accidents: A Growing Concern in Oregon

While bicycle trips account for only 1% of all trips made in the United States, cyclists face a significantly higher risk of injury or death in traffic accidents compared to motor vehicle occupants. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), bicycle crashes accounted for 2.2% of all traffic-related fatalities in 2016. Oregon has one of the highest percentages of bicycle fatalities in the country, making it a serious concern for riders.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Oregon, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other financial losses. At The Law Office of J. Clay McCaslin, our experienced accident attorney is dedicated to providing essential legal support and guidance to bicycle accident victims. We help investigate incidents, hold the responsible parties accountable, and ensure victims receive the necessary compensation for their injuries and damages.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Portland

Bicycle accidents often occur due to driver negligence, violations of traffic laws, and unsafe road conditions. Some of the most common causes of bicycle crashes in Portland include:

• Drunk driving and driving under the influence of drugs

• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone

• Failure to yield right-of-way at intersections and stop signs

• Left-turn accidents (“Left Cross”), when a vehicle turns in front of a cyclist

• Right-turn accidents (“Right Hook”), when a driver cuts off a cyclist while turning

• Failure to check blind spots before changing lanes

• Unsafe passing, following too closely, or rear-ending a cyclist

• Dooring accidents (“Door Prize”), when a parked driver opens their car door into a cyclist’s path

• Ignoring designated bike lanes or obstructing cyclist paths

Motor vehicle drivers have a significant responsibility to ensure the safety of cyclists by yielding appropriately and maintaining a safe distance, especially in shared road spaces.

If your accident was caused by a negligent driver, you may have grounds for a bicycle accident claim. Our personal injury law firm will fight to hold the at-fault party accountable and help you recover maximum compensation.

Bicycle Safety and Prevention

Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection cyclists have compared to motor vehicle occupants. Some of the most severe injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer concussions and long-term brain damage. The serious consequences of traumatic brain injury can include cognitive impairment, emotional difficulties, and physical disabilities.

• Spinal cord injuries – A serious impact can cause permanent disability and paralysis.

• Neck injuries – Whiplash and fractures can cause chronic pain and mobility issues.

• Broken bones and fractures – Common in collisions with cars and trucks.

• Road rash and lacerations – Can lead to severe infections or permanent scarring.

• Internal injuries – Damage to organs may require surgery and extensive medical care.

Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial, even if your injuries seem minor. Your medical records will serve as vital evidence in your personal injury case.

The Importance of Medical Treatment

If you are involved in a bicycle accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it is essential to get checked out by a medical professional. Bicycle accidents can result in severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and internal organ damage.

Seeking medical attention immediately can help prevent long-term consequences and ensure that you receive the necessary treatment to recover from your injuries. Additionally, medical records can serve as valuable evidence in a bicycle accident claim, helping to establish the extent of your injuries and the negligence of the at-fault party.

Who Is Liable in a Bicycle Accident?

Liability in a bicycle accident depends on the circumstances of the crash. The at-fault party could be:

• A negligent driver who failed to follow traffic laws

• A drunk driver or reckless motorist

• A truck driver who failed to check blind spots before turning

• A government entity responsible for hazardous road conditions

• A pedestrian or another bicycle rider who caused the accident

If multiple parties share responsibility, determining legal liability can be complex. Our personal injury attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to identify liable parties and gather evidence to support your claim.

Proving Fault and Liability

Proving fault and liability is a critical aspect of a bicycle accident claim. To establish liability, you must demonstrate that the at-fault party was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. This can be a complex process, requiring the expertise of a bicycle accident lawyer.

To prove fault and liability, your lawyer will gather evidence, including:

• Witness statements from those who saw the accident occur

• Police reports that document the details of the crash

• Medical records that outline the extent of your injuries

• Photographs and videos of the accident scene and any visible injuries

• Expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals

By analyzing this evidence, your lawyer can build a strong case to establish the liability of the at-fault party and secure the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Bike Accident

If you are involved in a bicycle accident, it is essential to take the right steps to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are some steps to take after a bike accident:

• Seek medical attention immediately to address any injuries and document them.

• Report the accident to the police and obtain a police report to establish an official record of the incident.

• Gather evidence, including witness statements and photographs of the accident scene, to support your claim.

• Contact a bicycle accident lawyer to discuss your options and get professional legal advice.

• Do not speak with the at-fault party’s insurance company without consulting with a lawyer first to avoid jeopardizing your claim.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

How a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You

Consulting a bike accident lawyer promptly after an incident is crucial to ensure proper assistance with personal injury claims and evidence collection. A bicycle accident lawyer plays a crucial role in ensuring injury victims receive the fair compensation they deserve. Our legal team will:

• Gather evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and accident scene photos

• Work with experts to reconstruct the crash and determine fault

• Handle insurance claims and negotiate with insurance adjusters

• Ensure you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress

• Take your case to court if necessary to pursue full compensation

With years of experience, our firm understands the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts. We will protect your legal rights and fight for what you are owed.

Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim in Oregon

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you must take legal action before the statute of limitations expires. In Oregon, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Understanding and navigating bike law is crucial when filing a bicycle accident claim to ensure your rights are protected.

To file a claim, you should:

1. Seek medical care and document your injuries with medical records

2. Obtain a police report to establish fault

3. Gather evidence, including photos, videos, and witness statements

4. Consult with an experienced attorney to discuss your options

Failing to file within the legal deadline could result in losing your right to financial compensation. Don’t wait—contact our firm for a free case review today.

Compensation Available for Bicycle Accident Victims

A successful bicycle accident claim can help you recover economic and non-economic damages, including:

Our collaborative network of independent attorneys and law firms has extensive experience in handling bicycle accident cases, ensuring you receive the best possible assistance.

Economic Damages (Financial Losses):

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy)

• Property damage (bike repairs or replacement)

• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress and mental trauma

• Reduced quality of life due to permanent disability

The goal is to ensure you receive full compensation for your losses. Our firm will aggressively pursue your legal rights against the at-fault driver and their insurance policy.

Catastrophic Injuries and Long-Term Consequences

Bicycle accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and amputations. These injuries can have long-term consequences, affecting not only your physical health but also your emotional well-being and financial stability.

If you have suffered a catastrophic injury in a bicycle accident, it is essential to seek the help of a bicycle accident lawyer who has experience handling complex cases. Your lawyer can help you navigate the complex process of seeking compensation and ensure that you receive the maximum amount of damages available.

In addition to seeking compensation, it is essential to focus on your recovery and rehabilitation. This may involve working with a team of medical professionals, including doctors, therapists, and rehabilitation specialists. By prioritizing your recovery and seeking the help of a bicycle accident lawyer, you can ensure that you receive the support and compensation you need to move forward.

Why Choose Our Portland Bicycle Accident Lawyers?

When seeking legal representation for a bicycle accident, it’s important to work with an experienced attorney who understands Oregon’s state laws and personal injury claims. Our bicycle accident attorneys provide specialized legal assistance, ensuring that victims receive expert help in gathering evidence, navigating the legal system, and advocating for cyclists’ rights. Here’s why clients trust us:

• Decades of experience in handling personal injury cases

• A strong record of securing maximum compensation for injured cyclists

• Personalized attention and commitment to our clients

• Free case review and initial consultation to evaluate your claim

Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a cycling accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case will be. Our experienced accident attorneys specialize in representing clients involved in bicycle accidents, ensuring you get the expert legal support you need.

📞 Call us today at (503) 239-1910

📧 Contact us for a free case review

At The Law Office of J. Clay McCaslin, we are committed to fighting for bicycle accident victims and helping them recover the compensation they deserve. Let us handle the legal process while you focus on your recovery.