A bicycle accident can change your life in an instant. Whether you were hit by a distracted driver on the Strip, doored by a parked car, or injured in a collision at a busy intersection, you deserve justice. Our Las Vegas bicycle accident lawyers are here to help you recover the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Insurance companies often try to downplay the severity of cycling injuries, but we know the reality—broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and long recovery times. We won’t let them take advantage of you. If you were injured in a bicycle crash in Las Vegas, take action now. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us fight for you.
Who is Liable for a Bicycle Accident in Las Vegas?
Nevada follows an at-fault system for motor vehicle accidents, meaning the driver responsible for the crash must cover all property damage—typically through their insurance. If you’ve suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, you may also have the right to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Proving Fault in a Bicycle Accident Claim
Establishing liability is critical in securing the compensation you deserve. Our Las Vegas bicycle accident lawyers can help gather essential evidence, such as:
- Police reports detailing the accident
- Surveillance footage from nearby cameras
- Eyewitness statements supporting your case
Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto cyclists to reduce payouts. Strong evidence is key to fighting back and ensuring you receive full and fair compensation.
How Comparative Negligence Affects Your Claim
Nevada uses a comparative negligence system, meaning you can still recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your damages. However, if you are more than 50% responsible, you cannot collect compensation.
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact our Las Vegas bicycle accident attorneys today for a free consultation and find out how we can fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Are Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Las Vegas?
When motor vehicles collide with cyclists, the results can be devastating. Nevada state law requires drivers to use a degree of care to prevent bike accidents, but sadly, many drivers do not take the care necessary, and a collision may occur.
Some common causes of bicycle accidents in Vegas are:
- Distracted driving, such as cell phone use
- Failing to yield the right of way to the cyclist when appropriate
- Low visibility on the road
- Driving under the influence
- Cars changing lanes without signaling
- Aggressive driving, such as speeding
- Not obeying traffic signals and other traffic laws
- Recklessly opening car doors
- Not respecting bicycle lanes
If you have been in a bike accident, please first seek medical attention for your injuries. You should be examined by a medical professional to be sure any masked or internal injuries are addressed. Once you have done so, you can speak with a bicycle accident lawyer to get help determining the cause of the accident.
If your bicycle accident occurred for these or other reasons related to reckless behavior on the part of the driver of a motor vehicle, you could qualify for a bicycle accident lawsuit. We can help you collect compensation for the serious injuries sustained because of the negligent driver. Reach out to our bicycle accident lawyers right away to see how we can help you.
What Injuries Typically Occur in a Bicycle Accident?
Individuals involved in bicycle accidents are lucky if they can walk away from the incident. Cyclists typically suffer serious injuries because of the impact between the heavy motor vehicle and their bicycle, which offers little protection. Many times, a cyclist will be permanently disabled or even die because of the severity of the crash.
Another result of bicycle accidents is the emotional trauma sustained. This can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety that take a toll on the person’s everyday life for years to come.
Some injuries that commonly occur in Las Vegas bicycle accidents are:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – These injuries wreak havoc on a person’s life as they create permanent disabilities and affect mood and behavior.
- Broken bones – With the high impact of a car crashing into a bike, fractured bones are a common result. Broken bones are extremely painful and involve a long recovery, sometimes even requiring surgery.
- Road rash – Road rash is a painful scrape from being thrown onto the pavement in an accident. While it is not one of the most severe injuries, it still causes extreme discomfort.
- Torn muscles and ligaments – Soft tissue damage is difficult to treat, usually requiring rest to recover. This can keep a person from working and enjoying their normal activities.
- Severe lacerations – Cuts on the cyclist’s body can lead to a great deal of lost blood, which can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. These injuries also create a risk of infection.
- Severe lacerations – Cuts on the cyclist’s body can lead to a great deal of lost blood, which can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. These injuries also create a risk of infection.
- Mouth injuries, including broken teeth – Mouth injuries are excruciating and can require expensive dental visits to repair the damage. The emotional suffering from potential disfigurement of the mouth is another serious effect following a bike accident.
- Limb amputations – Losing a limb is another unfortunate result of many bicycle accidents. This greatly impacts the victim’s ability to enjoy life and can prevent them from earning income, depending on their current job.
- Back and spinal cord injuries – Injuries in the back and spinal cord are another example of agonizing damage done by a motor vehicle to a bicyclist. These injuries can include broken bones, pinched nerves, and herniated discs. Many back injuries require surgery to recover.
- Partial or total paralysis – Being paralyzed following a bike accident is one of the worst injuries because it affects every aspect of the victim’s life.
- Wrongful death – Sadly, many individuals lose their lives in bicycle accidents. If your loved one died in a bicycle accident, you have our deepest condolences. We encourage you to contact a bicycle accident lawyer for help recovering damages following your loved one’s death.
- Emotional trauma – Often overlooked, emotional trauma is extremely difficult to overcome following a bicycle accident. Victims can be left with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders because of their injuries.
Bike accidents involving motor vehicles can cause serious damage, and motor vehicle drivers should be held responsible if their reckless behavior caused the accident. If you have been injured by a car while riding a bike, you need excellent bicycle accident lawyers on your side to take care of the legal matters so you can spend your time resting and recovering.
Contact Benjamin Durham Law Firm today for a free consultation.
What Damages Can I Recover in My Bicycle Accident Claim?
If you or your loved one was involved in a bicycle accident in Nevada where a driver’s negligence caused the accident, you could recover damages for your injuries.
Under Nevada law, motor vehicle drivers owe a duty of care to all others on the road, including cyclists. They should operate their car in a way that reasonably prevents others from being harmed, and if they do not do so, they can be held accountable by law.
Your bicycle accident lawsuit can help you recover compensation for:
- Medical bills such as hospital costs, ambulance services, emergency room bills, specialist services, and medication
- Future medical bills such as for surgeries and physical therapy
- Lost wages for time missed from work due to the injuries
- Torn muscles and ligaments – Soft tissue damage is difficult to treat, usually requiring rest to recover. This can keep a person from working and enjoying their normal activities.
- Lost future wages, such as when injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job
- Pain and suffering from your physical injuries
- Emotional distress
- Trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship when a loved one died in a bike accident
- Funeral and burial expenses
Many bicycle accident victims feel alone and afraid, facing a mountain of bills and expenses and a life where they can no longer perform the functions they are accustomed to because of their injuries. Please don’t go through this challenging time alone.
You may be able to get help with your medical costs as well as be reimbursed for the pain the at-fault party caused by bringing a personal injury claim. Let our talented legal team stand by your side and find justice in your bike accident case.
Nevada Bicycle Accident Laws
Nevada law treats bicyclists like motor vehicle drivers, requiring them to follow the same rules of the road. Cyclists must travel in the same direction as traffic and use bike lanes when available. While they cannot ride alongside cars, two cyclists may ride side by side within the same lane.
Motorists’ Responsibilities to Cyclists
Drivers must keep at least three feet of space when passing a bicyclist and, when possible, change lanes for added safety. Additionally, motorists are required to yield to cyclists at intersections just as they would for other vehicles.
Nevada Fault Laws
Nevada follows a comparative fault system, meaning each party is assigned a percentage of fault between 0-100%. If a cyclist is found 20% at fault, they can still recover 80% of their damages. However, if someone is over 50% responsible, they are considered the at-fault party and liable for damages.
Statute of Limitations
Bicycle accident victims in Nevada have two years to file a claim for injuries. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to compensation. If you’ve been injured, contact a Las Vegas bicycle accident lawyer at Benjamin Durham Law Firm today. We’ll help you build a strong case before time runs out.
Should You Hire Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers?
At Benjamin Durham Law Firm in Las Vegas, we express our deepest condolences for you or your loved one’s bicycle accident. As a victim of another person’s negligence, we recognize that you have unique needs and goals for your bike accident lawsuit. We also understand that no amount of money can reverse the damages done in the accident, especially if it caused the wrongful death of your loved one.
However, we believe that seeking justice is appropriate and helpful in lightening the burden of medical expenses and suffering that the victim and their family feel at this difficult time.
After a bicycle accident, you and your family may wish to focus your time and energy on recovering and moving forward with your lives. This is why personal injury lawyers are such a critical part of the healing process following a devastating accident like what you’ve been through.
Please don’t feel you must go through this troubling experience alone. You can rely on the injury lawyers at Benjamin Durham Law Firm to help you navigate the legal process of recovering damages for your injuries. We promise to dedicate our best efforts to getting you the maximum compensation possible. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Benjamin Durham Law Firm
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident in Las Vegas?
After a bicycle accident, take these important steps if you’re able:
1. Call 911 and remain at the scene.
2. Document the accident scene with photos and videos.
3. Collect contact and insurance information from all involved parties.
4. Get contact information from any witnesses.
5. Seek medical attention. even if injuries seem minor.
6. Do not repair or dispose of your bicycle.
7. Contact a bicycle accident lawyer before speaking with insurance companies.
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Nevada?
In Nevada, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including bicycle accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. However, it’s crucial to start the legal process as soon as possible while evidence is fresh and witnesses’ memories are clear.
What compensation can I recover after a bicycle accident?
Potential compensation may include:
- Medical expenses (current and future).
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
- Property damage (bicycle, gear, personal items).
- Pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress.
- Rehabilitation costs.
- Loss of quality of life.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, you may still have options:
- Filing a claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage.
- Pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
- Investigating other potentially liable parties.
- Exploring coverage under other insurance policies.
- Can I get compensation for road rash scarring and skin.
Can I get compensation for road rash scarring and skin grafts after a bicycle accident?
Yes, you can seek compensation for road rash injuries, including:
- Initial emergency room treatment and wound cleaning.
- Multiple rounds of skin grafting procedures.
- Plastic surgery for severe scarring.
- Specialized compression garments for healing.
- Ongoing wound care and dressing changes.
- Physical therapy for range of motion.
- Psychological counseling for trauma and disfigurement.
- Lost wages during recovery from skin grafts.
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement compensation.
- Pain management during debridement procedures.
- Prevention and treatment of infections.
- Long-term dermatology care.
Can I still recover damages if I wasn't wearing a helmet during the accident?
Yes, you can still pursue compensation even if you weren’t wearing a helmet:
- Nevada law doesn’t require adult cyclists to wear helmets.
- Not wearing a helmet doesn’t automatically make you at fault.
- You may still recover damages even if your injuries would have been less severe with a helmet.
- The insurance company might try to argue “comparative negligence”.
- Medical evidence can help prove injury causation.
- Expert witnesses may be needed to address injury severity.
- Focus will be placed on the driver’s duty of care.
- Your rights as a cyclist remain protected under Nevada law.
Dedicated to Criminal Defense and Personal Injury Representation
Practice areas focuses on safeguarding individuals who suffer harm due to the actions or negligence of another party. These claims address injuries whether physical, mental, or occasionally involving property damage experienced by the affected individual.
Criminal Defense
Drug Crimes
Our experienced criminal defense team at Durham Law Firm defends individuals facing drug-related charges. We diligently analyze evidence, challenge procedures, and protect your rights to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
DUI
Our skilled team at Durham Law Firm provides aggressive DUI defense. We challenge breathalyzer results, question police procedures, and protect your rights, striving to minimize penalties and protect your driving privileges.
Record Sealing
Durham Law Firm assists clients in clearing their criminal records through record sealing. We guide you through the legal process, helping you move forward with a clean slate for a brighter future.
Domestic Violence
At Durham Law Firm, our committed attorneys offer support and legal representation to individuals facing domestic violence charges. We provide legal defense, ensure your rights are protected, and work diligently to secure a fair legal process on your behalf.
Assault
When facing assault charges, rely on Durham Law Firm’s experienced defense team. We meticulously examine evidence, challenge allegations, and protect your rights, working towards the best possible outcome for your case.
Theft
Durham Law Firm defends individuals facing theft charges. Our legal team examines the evidence, explores potential defenses, and works to minimize penalties or have charges dismissed, ensuring a fair legal process.
Traffic Law
Navigating traffic violations can be complex. Our attorneys at Durham Law Firm provide guidance, helping you with traffic tickets, license issues, and other traffic-related legal matters.
Felony
In felony cases, Durham Law Firm’s experienced defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights. We craft robust defense strategies, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court.
Misdemeanor
Durham Law Firm defends clients facing misdemeanor charges. Our legal team offers quality guidance, thorough case analysis, and advocacy to minimize the impact of charges on your record and life.
Personal Injury
Car Accidents
After a car accident, trust Durham Law Firm to fight for your rights. We seek compensation for injuries, property damage, and other losses by providing dedicated legal representation.
Truck Accidents
Durham Law Firm’s experienced attorneys handle complex truck accident cases. We investigate thoroughly, negotiate with insurers, and litigate, if necessary, to secure just compensation for victims of truck accidents.
Motorcycle Accidents
Durham Law Firm advocates for motorcycle accident victims. Our skilled attorneys pursue compensation for injuries, medical expenses, and other losses, providing comprehensive legal support for riders.
Pedestrian Accidents
Durham Law Firm is here for pedestrian accident victims. We’re dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve for injuries, medical bills, and hardships stemming from your accident.
Bicycle Accidents
At Durham Law Firm, we’re committed to protecting the rights of bicyclists involved in accidents. We fight for compensation to cover medical costs, property damage, and the impact on your life.
Bus Accidents
Injured in a bus accident? Durham Law Firm fights to ensure bus accident victims receive fair compensation for their losses and to hold the at-fault party accountable.
Head-On Collision
In head-on collision cases, Durham Law Firm provides experienced legal representation. We investigate, negotiate, and litigate to secure compensation for your injuries and damages.
Hit & Run
When you’re a victim of a hit-and-run, Durham Law Firm is on your side. We pursue justice and compensation, working tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Rear End Collision
Durham Law Firm also handles rear-end collision cases. Our attorneys investigate thoroughly, ensuring you receive rightful compensation for injuries and damages caused by negligent drivers.
Distracted Driving Accidents
If you’ve suffered due to distracted driving, Durham Law Firm is your advocate. We’re dedicated to pursuing compensation for injuries and losses resulting from distracted driver negligence.
Testimonials
What our clients Say
Client satisfaction fuels our passion and purpose. We are dedicated to exceeding expectations, ensuring that each person who entrusts us with their legal matters walks away in a better state than before.
Highly recommend this office. They took care of my case from start to finish and I couldn’t be any more grateful having their service. Awesome customer service and professionalism. The whole team is amazing and i would like a shoutout especially to Raquel and Daniel who helped me with my case every step of the way. I wasn’t only treated a very special client but also like a family— protected, safe and secured. Wouldn’t go anywhere else for legal services. This is the place!!! Thank you Atty Durham and to your top notch team! My family and I are clients for life! God bless!
Danielle Petkovich is my first choice for a criminal defense attorney. She is smart, extremely capable, and friendly. She is great at keeping you informed on your case, the process, and what to expect. She makes you feel at ease, and you know you’re in good hands!! The other attorneys in the office have similar qualities and I wouldn’t hesitate to consult with any one of them in Danielle’s absence.
Highly recommend Ben! He helped me to get my felonies dropped down to misdemeanors and was very easy to communicate with. Most attorneys are in it for the money and don’t make you feel like they care but that was the opposite with Ben. He is very thoughtful and even checked up on me after I had my baby. He doesn’t judge you no matter how bad things may appear to be. He is very understanding and a man of his word. Made it so simple and easy all I had to do was show up to court and the rest was handled!
Danielle Petkovich is my first choice for a criminal defense attorney. She is smart, extremely capable, and friendly. She is great at keeping you informed on your case, the process, and what to expect. She makes you feel at ease and you know you’re in good hands!! The other attorneys in the office have similar qualities and I wouldn’t hesitate to consult with any one of them in Danielle’s absence.
Get to Know Our
Client-Focused Legal Team
Meet the backbone of Benjamin Durham Law Firm. Committed to providing the highest level of service, our team combines a wealth of knowledge, skill, and dedication to ensure that our clients receive the best possible legal representation.
Benjamin Durham
Ben Bateman
Easton Durham
Marilu Martinez
Kesia Haag
Experience Matters
An experienced lawyer with a strong track record of success may actually be your most affordable option. With over 20 years of practicing law, we understand every detail of this complex system.
