St. Clair County Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Factors That Impact Bike Accidents

Potholes are a frequent hazard on Michigan’s roads, especially after our harsh winters. These can cause cyclists to lose control, swerve unexpectedly, or fall, resulting in serious injuries. Narrow shoulders are another common issue, particularly on rural roads. They leave cyclists with little room to maneuver safely, sometimes pushing them closer to vehicle traffic.

Construction zones and debris also pose dangers. Loose gravel, broken asphalt, and poorly marked detours make it hard for cyclists to maintain balance and reach their destinations safely. 

Michigan’s unpredictable weather creates additional risks for cyclists. Rain can make roads slick, reducing tire traction, and obscuring visibility for both cyclists and drivers. During winter, snow and ice become the primary concerns. Cyclists navigating icy streets risk losing control, while snowbanks can obstruct bike lanes or shoulders, forcing cyclists closer to moving vehicles.

Springtime introduces another hazard—melting snow often reveals accumulated debris or washed-out areas that make cycling more dangerous. Cyclists must remain vigilant, but accidents still happen when drivers fail to adjust their behavior to these conditions, such as by slowing down or giving cyclists wider clearance.

Poor road and weather conditions can lead to further questions of liability. Whether a municipality fails to repair infrastructure or a driver neglects their duty of care, these factors play a crucial role during investigations and legal claims following an accident. We’re here to help injured bike riders hold responsible parties accountable and get a fair financial settlement. 

Damages an Injured Cyclist Can Get in a Settlement

These damages are intended to cover the physical, emotional, and financial impact of the accident and help the victim recover: 

• Medical expenses: Cyclists often face steep costs for emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment for fractures or head trauma. A settlement can reimburse these expenses, including future medical needs, such as continuing rehabilitation. 
• Lost wages: Your settlement can include compensation for the time you missed at work. Moreover, the settlement can also include future income losses if your injuries have hindered your efforts to gain promotions or run a business. 
• Pain and suffering damages: These are meant to address the emotional toll and physical pain caused by the accident. This could include compensation for anxiety, PTSD, or loss of enjoyment in physical activities—such as biking—that you previously enjoyed. 
• Property damage: We can seek compensation to replace your bike and any other personal property that was damaged in the accident.