Las Vegas Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Bicycle Accidents in Nevada

“Share the road!”—it’s a safety standard that drivers must adhere to, and cyclists depend on it every day. Cyclists, having relatively little protection compared to drivers and passengers in large, heavy vehicles, require motorists to be careful, safe, and always share the road. Unfortunately, accidents do happen. If you were hit by a distracted, careless, or reckless driver while cycling, you are likely facing significant injuries and a long, difficult road to recovery. You don’t have to face this alone.

At Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen, our Las Vegas bicycle accident lawyers understand just how devastating it is to be struck by a car, truck, or motorcycle while riding your bike. Our entire team of dedicated attorneys, legal professionals, and staff is here to help you get back on your feet. We have decades of experience and a history of success, having secured millions of dollars for our clients over the years. If you were injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, reach out to our firm to learn how we can fight for you, too.

With the growing popularity of cycling in Las Vegas, the local government has implemented initiatives to improve cyclist safety, including dedicated bike lanes and awareness campaigns. However, despite these efforts, the city's vibrant and busy streets present unique challenges for cyclists navigating through areas like the bustling Las Vegas Strip. Understanding these dynamics underscores the importance of having a dedicated legal ally in this environment.

Were you injured while riding your bike in Las Vegas? Call Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen today at (725) 567-0612 or contact us online to explore your rights and start building your case for compensation.

Nevada Bicycle Laws

Unfortunately, there is a stigma against bike riders when they are involved in accidents. Many drivers are too quick to blame the bike rider for causing the accident, rather than considering the entire situation.

Every bicyclist is urged to follow the rules of the road. This will ensure that they are being safe and keeping themselves out of harm’s way. Additionally, it will ensure that they are more easily visible when sharing the road with other motor vehicles.

Some of those rules include:

• Take care not to interfere with the motion of anyone driving a motor vehicle
• Ride their bicycle with the flow of traffic, not against it
• Cyclists must follow all standard traffic rules, including stopping at stop signs/red lights
• No one is permitted to ride a bicycle on the shoulder of a roadway
• When available, cyclists should always ride in designated bicycle lanes
• Cyclists are required to use hand signals when turning, changing lanes, or stopping

These laws are designed to protect cyclists and motorists alike, reinforcing a shared responsibility for safety on the roads. Within Las Vegas, cycling paths and lanes are increasingly common, encouraging a healthy and eco-friendly mode of transportation. However, despite these advances, cyclists must remain vigilant, as traffic congestion can lead to unexpected hazards.

Additionally, motorists have a responsibility to follow specific rules to keep cyclists safe. Some of these include:

• Every motorist should take care to avoid a collision with a cyclist
• Motor vehicles should pass cyclists on the left if they must share a traffic lane
• Motorists must give people on bicycles at least three feet of space when passing
• On multi-lane roadways/highways, motorists must give cyclists a full lane when passing

Despite these rules of the road, 52,000 bike riders are injured and 716 cyclists are killed due to bicycle accidents every year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), cyclists represent about 14% of all traffic accident fatalities. Cyclists need to stay informed and safe to avoid becoming a statistic themselves.

How Do Bicycle Accidents Happen?

The most common accident involving a bicycle is a collision with a car or another type of motor vehicle. However, bicycle accidents can also occur when cyclists hit a pedestrian who is not paying attention or when they collide with other cyclists who are being negligent. Sometimes, a defective bike part can lead to damage, which, in turn, may result in an accident.

Often overlooked is the role of environmental factors in causing accidents. Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, and as such, poorly lit roads can pose significant dangers to cyclists. Moreover, the desert climate influences road conditions, with extreme temperatures potentially leading to warped bike wheels or overheating of key components. Cyclists should regularly maintain their bicycles to mitigate such risks.

Examples of how defective bicycle parts can cause accidents include:

• Bicycle tire blowouts
• Stuck gears
• Brake failures
• Unsafe bike helmets

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

When it comes to a collision with a motor vehicle, fellow cyclist, or pedestrian, the most common injuries cyclists endure include soft tissue damage (e.g., trauma to the skin and muscles) and bone fractures. In fatal and serious accidents, the most common injury is severe head or brain trauma.

What Should I Do If I Get in a Bike Accident?

First, seek immediate medical attention if you or anyone else involved has been hurt. You should also contact the police to get an official report of the incident on record. Next, gather as much information about the incident as you can. Take down the names and phone numbers of every driver that was involved and get the contact information of any witnesses in the area. Also, be sure to get the insurance information from every driver involved in the accident. Take photos of the scene and collect every broken bicycle part as evidence.

Once you have done these things and, most importantly, received proper medical care, the next thing you should do is contact a bicycle accident attorney. You could be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries, but recovering this compensation can be difficult without the help of a skilled legal professional.

Stepping into the legal process can seem daunting, but with the proper guidance, you can navigate it smoothly. Our team at Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen is ready to assist you with a strategic plan tailored to your needs, ensuring you're informed every step of the way. Considering the complexities of insurance negotiations, having an attorney can significantly strengthen your case and help maximize potential compensation.

Insurance Questions About Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can result in permanent injuries, broken equipment, and lost income from periods of disability. Parties responsible for these damages can be held accountable, and their motor vehicle liability insurance can be used to pay for everything. You, as a bicyclist, have the same rights to claim your injuries and damages as a motorist. If a driver negligently operated their vehicle and you’ve suffered from it, then they should be on the hook for your damages. In Nevada, you can seek these damages regardless of any insurance you have purchased to cover yourself.

Although if your insurance does pay, you get the benefit of having paid the premiums, not the tortfeasor. Most laws allow your health insurance a right of reimbursement if there’s a recovery, but an attorney can often negotiate this amount. Using all the insurance that is available to best benefit you is vital.

Most cyclists also own motor vehicles, and their auto insurance often applies in a bicycle accident case, too. Coverage you want to have under your car insurance is Medical Payments (aka “Med Pay”) and uninsured motorist/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM). Both are relatively inexpensive but hugely beneficial. UM/UIM will provide coverage in the event the at-fault driver didn’t have coverage or didn’t have enough coverage to pay for all related damages.

Local insurance providers in Las Vegas may offer additional rider attachments specifically for cyclists, considering the city's unique landscape and cycling community. Understanding these options can provide peace of mind for both avid and casual bicycle users, ensuring comprehensive coverage in the event of an accident.

Nevada Insurance Minimums

Nevada mandates liability insurance of:

• $15,000 per person
• $30,000 per accident (if multiple people are injured)

$15,000 doesn’t go very far, though. A broken shoulder’s medical costs and lost time from work, let alone ongoing disability, will have a value far exceeding the minimum limits. If your liability coverage is more than your UM/UIM, why would you insure others better than you insure yourself? You should talk with your insurance provider about increasing your policy caps.

Additional Liability Situations for Bicycle Accident Claims

Homeowner’s insurance can apply if a pedestrian or non-motorized vehicle acts negligently. Businesses can be held responsible if danger is created through road debris, unsecured loads, construction, lack of warnings, negligent drivers, etc. Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can be liable for selling defective biking equipment caused by manufacturing defects, design defects, and failing to warn of foreseeable dangers. Holding shop owners responsible may be necessary when bikes are improperly assembled, modified, or serviced.

In Las Vegas, with its dynamic mix of entertainment venues and businesses, liability can sometimes extend to venue operators and event organizers. If you've participated in a city event or attended a location where injuries occurred due to negligence, it's crucial to explore all avenues for liability. Our attorneys can assess the situation comprehensively to identify all liable parties.

Can You Sue If You're Hurt at a Bike Event?

Most bicycle events like races or marathons require participants to sign a liability waiver that makes it seem like the event planner cannot be sued for any accidents or injuries. However, don’t be fooled into thinking that you have no recourse at all. Liability waivers must be specific and aren’t frequently interpreted to relieve someone of negligence. If you’ve assumed the risk of the activity, was the specific risk or danger that caused you harm known? Could it and should it have been prevented through reasonable effort? Many factors can give you complete authority to file a claim or lawsuit.

Venues like Red Rock Canyon, which often host cycling events, have unique topographies and can present particular risks. Understanding how Nevada law applies to these settings can influence liability and your potential for filing a successful claim. Partnering with experienced legal counsel familiar with local regulations and event protocols is crucial to navigate these complex cases effectively.

Local Resources & Support for Cyclists

The city of Las Vegas offers several resources to bicycle riders to improve safety and enjoyment of cycling. For instance, the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) provides maps of dedicated bike paths and lanes across the city, which can be invaluable for both new and seasoned cyclists in navigating safely. Utilizing these resources helps cyclists plan their routes better and avoid areas of high traffic congestion.

Additionally, local cycling clubs and community events provide opportunities for riders to connect, share experiences, and offer support. Engaging with these groups can provide cyclists with the latest updates about changes in cycling laws, safety workshops, and community rides, all of which contribute to a safer cycling environment. At Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen, we encourage riders to leverage these community resources as part of a comprehensive approach to cycling safety.

Contact Our Las Vegas Bicycle Accident Attorneys Today 

Every cyclist should feel safe on the road. It isn’t fair to let one wrong turn or one driver’s careless mistake ruin the rest of your life. Seek the help and compensation you need today—reach out to Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen. We offer a free initial consultation for anyone who needs our representation. We can even visit you if you’re unable to leave your home or the hospital.

Our commitment goes beyond legal representation; it extends to being an integral support system throughout your recovery journey. With comprehensive knowledge of local roads and conditions, our team will ensure your case benefits from an in-depth understanding of regional nuances affecting bicycle safety in Las Vegas.

Contact a Las Vegas bicycle accident lawyer at Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Fault Determined in a Bicycle Accident in Las Vegas?

Determining fault in a bicycle accident in Las Vegas involves examining evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and the physical damage to vehicles and bicycles. Nevada follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning fault can be shared among parties. It’s crucial to have a thorough investigation to establish the cause accurately and comprehensively. Our legal team at Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen works meticulously with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case for our clients, focusing on highlighting negligence or dangerous road conditions contributing to the accident.

What Are Common Challenges When Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim?

Filing a bicycle accident claim presents several challenges, starting with gathering and preserving evidence immediately after the accident. There's also the complexity of negotiating with insurance companies, which often aim to minimize payouts. Understanding the full scope of your injuries and damages, including long-term medical needs, is another critical aspect. At Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen, we assist clients by navigating these challenges, ensuring that all necessary documentation is accurately presented and that negotiations with insurers focus on securing fair compensation that addresses both present and future financial needs.