Bailey Legal Services, PLLC, Can Handle Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents

Bailey Legal Services, PLLC, handles bicycle and pedestrian accidents in Barboursville, WV. According to statistics from 2019, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) stated that there were 6,590 pedestrian fatalities, which is the highest number in more than 30 years. Drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists must obey the rules of the road to keep everyone safe. This means that anyone can be at fault when ignoring walk signs, stoplights, crosswalks, and other safety features.

Are you the victim of a pedestrian or bicycle accident in the Barboursville area? If so, attorney Michael S. Bailey is here to help. With years of experience in personal injury claims, you can count on his knowledge and expertise to fight for the right to compensation.

A Personal Injury Attorney Will Help You to Understand Your Rights

If you are the victim of a pedestrian or bicycle accident, you are not alone. Attorney Bailey of Bailey Legal Services, PLLC, is here to help you understand your rights and navigate the aftermath of an accident. The right personal injury attorney will walk you or your family through any claims, insurance disputes, or wrongful death claims to help you get the proper compensation.

Victims and families of pedestrian or bicycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and funeral expenses.

Hold Negligent Parties Responsible After a Bicycle Accident

Bicycle accidents are more common than you may realize. The CDC reported that in 2015, there were 1,000 bicyclist fatalities and almost 467,000 bicycle-related injuries. And in many cases, the accidents happen due to negligence.

Both drivers in vehicles and cyclists on bicycles may act in careless ways that result in accidents. If you’re involved in an accident, be sure to call 911 immediately, even if there does not appear to be any injuries. Injuries can become more apparent later, so it’s best to have a police report and to exchange contact information with the driver.

Calling 911 and speaking with police can be a crucial part of your case. A detailed police report is always a great asset to any personal injury case, as it will document evidence, eye witness accounts, and other important factors. Take photos, if possible, of any helpful evidence, like a broken stoplight, road conditions, or anything else you may find beneficial to your case. It can also help to leave the bicycle the way it is to show any extensive damage to your property.

Pedestrian Rights – Who is Wrong in a Pedestrian Accident?

When it comes to pedestrian accidents, most people may assume that the driver is always in the wrong. This is not always the case. There are various factors that can play into a pedestrian accident, like alcohol consumption, ignoring stop or “don’t walk” signs, and not using crosswalks.

Other issues that may come up are dark clothing or lack of reflectors. Say you are walking home late one night wearing black pants, a black coat, and a dark hat. You cross the street, even though the sign says “don’t walk,” when all of a sudden, a vehicle comes around the corner and hits you. Who would be in the wrong? If the driver was speeding, using their cell phone, or adjusting the radio, the driver then is negligent and will be at fault. If the pedestrian is illegally crossing the street, they then are also at fault. It’s important to have witnesses or proof that you were paying attention and following street signs.

Ways to Avoid a Pedestrian or Bicycle Accident

Sometimes, accidents are just accidents, and there is no way to stop it from happening. Poor road conditions, weather, driver error, or pedestrian/cyclist error can all contribute to an accident. However, there are some ways to avoid an accident from happening:

• Wear reflective clothing – avoid wearing black and dark colors at night!
• Use reflectors or lights on a bike
• Use crosswalks
• Pay attention to “no walking” signs – and obey them
• Use proper hand signals when riding a bicycle
• Use sidewalks when available
• Always look both ways when crossing the street, even when you have a “walk” sign

There is always the chance for an accident to occur, but by following these guidelines, you will be much safer.

What to Do In Case of a Pedestrian or Bicycle Accident

If you do find yourself involved in a pedestrian accident or bicycle accident, there are steps to take to make sure all parties are safe or receive the help they need. While they may seem obvious, it’s good to do the following:

Do not leave. Not only is this a “hit-and-run,” the other person could have severe injuries.

Call the police/emergency personnel. It’s crucial to report the accident as soon as possible and get the proper medical help for everyone involved. The police can also get both sides of the story and speak with any witnesses to determine who was at fault.

Exchange information. Be sure to exchange contact information and any insurance information, even if there is no noticeable injuries or damage. Tomorrow, the person who was hit may experience pain, or the driver could have pain or vehicle damage.

Gather evidence. If possible, take photos of the accident, road conditions, incorrect signage, and any other evidence that will help your case.

If you have more questions about a pedestrian or bicycle accident, give Attorney Bailey a call. He will walk you through the steps and help you figure out what to do in the event of a hit-and-run or handling the aftermath of any accident.

Trust Attorney Bailey to Handle Your Personal Injury Claim

Attorney Michael S. Bailey of Bailey Legal Services, PLLC, is here to help you in the event of a personal injury claim. If you sustain injuries after being struck by a vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation. Give our law office a call for a free personal injury consultation. Do not handle a bicycle and pedestrian accident in Barboursville, WV, by yourself – trust Attorney Bailey to handle the claim.

Follow us on Facebook, and check out our site for future updates and more information on why you need a personal injury attorney. Call Bailey Legal Services, PLLC, at (304) 736-0801 for more information on bicycle and pedestrian accidents in Barboursville, WV.