SUMMERLIN BICYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER

Hurt in a Bicycle Accident in Summerlin? Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

At Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas, our Summerlin bicycle accident attorneys put the needs and interests of injured victims first. With more than $300 million in financial compensation recovered for our clients across the full range of our personal injury practices, our firm knows how to get results when it matters. Were you or a family member injured in a bicycle accident? We are here to help. Contact us today for a free, no obligation consultation with a top-rated Summerlin bicycle accident attorney and Las Vegas bicycle accident lawyer.

TRAFFIC POSES A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD TO CYCLISTS

Cycling is a great form of transportation and recreation in Summerlin. Yet, sadly, bike safety remains a very serious safety concern. For cyclists, navigating through congested streets alongside fast-moving vehicles heightens the risk of accidents. Unfortunately, many local roads lack sufficient bike lanes. Cyclists are forced to share lanes with larger vehicles, which can lead to dangerous interactions. Too many drivers fail to watch out for the presence (and well-being) of cyclists. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that nearly 1,000 cyclists are killed in motor vehicle collisions in the United States each year.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Summerlin

Were you or a loved one hit by a car while riding a bike in Summerlin? Then bike accident victims need to hire a Summerlin bicycle accident attorney and Las Vegas bicycle accident attorney to represent you against the negligent driver. It is imperative that you know what to do to protect your health, safety, legal rights, and financial interests. A proactive approach can make all of the difference in the personal injury claims process. Here are four things you should always do after a bike accident in Summerlin: 

• Stop Your Bike and Report the Accident: First and foremost, stop your bicycle. Any collision involving a bike and a vehicle should be reported to law enforcement. Such as the Summerlin Area Command of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD). 
• Get Prompt Medical Care for Any Physical Injuries: Even if injuries seem minor, it is crucial to seek medical attention without delay. Not only do you need to protect your health, medical records are required to bring a personal injury claim in Nevada. 
• Carefully Document the Bike Accident: Gather as much information as possible at the scene. Take photographs, secure contact details for any witnesses, and record other pertinent information. Bicycle accident claims are fault-based legal cases in Summerlin. 
• Speak to a Summerlin Bicycle Accident Lawyer Before an Insurer: Insurance companies are looking out for their own bottom line—not what is best for your family. Consult with a Summerlin bicycle accident lawyer before you give any recorded statement to an insurer. 

Bicycle Accidents Can Cause Serious Injuries

A bicycle can be a great way to get around in our region. Unfortunately, as with other communities in Clark County, the infrastructure in Summerlin is not always favorable for bicyclists. Too many cyclists are hurt in crashes with motorists each year and cause bicycle accident injuries. A bike accident can result in very serious, even life-changing injuries. Some of the most common bike accident injuries from a bicycle accident claim include: 

• Road Rash: Bike accidents can lead to severe abrasions. These can happen when a cyclist’s skin slides across the pavement, which may lead to infection or scarring.
• Soft Tissue Damage: soft tissue damage—from sprains to strains to whiplash—are relatively common in bicycle accidents. 
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Concussions and TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, potentially resulting in long-term cognitive impairment.
• Broken Bones: Cyclists may suffer broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, or ribs, which can lead to significant pain and disability.
• Spinal Cord Damage: Any damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis. These are catastrophic injuries. 
• Internal Injuries: These can be life-threatening and may involve damage to internal organs like the liver, kidneys, or spleen.
• Loss of Limb: In some cases, limb injuries sustained in a bicycle accident are so severe that amputation is required.

UNDERSTANDING THE CYCLING LAWS IN NEVADA

Do you bike in Summerlin? If you are on public roads, it is imperative that you understand the law. Here are two of the foundational points to understand about cycling laws in Nevada: 

• Bicyclists Have a Road to the Road: As a cyclist, you have every right to the road. One of the fundamental principles is that bicyclists have the same rights to the road as any motor vehicle. Cyclists are entitled to ride on the street—and they must be given the appropriate right of way by motorists. You can control a lane when needed. It is essential for drivers to respect this right and for cyclists to assert their space responsibly. 
• Bicyclists Must Comply With Traffic Laws: Bicyclists in Nevada are required to comply with all traffic laws applicable to motor vehicles. Among other things, this includes obeying traffic signals and stop signs, signaling turns, and adhering to speed limits. By following these rules, bicyclists not only ensure their safety but also contribute to the predictable flow of traffic. Notably, in Nevada, Bicyclists must also use bike lanes when they are available.

An Overview of Bicycle Accident Liability With an Experienced Bicycle Accident Attorney

Hurt in a bicycle accident in Summerlin? Your personal injury claim will be governed by Nevada law. It is imperative that you have a well-rounded understanding of the basics of personal injury liability in the state. Here is an overview of two central things that you need to know: 

1. At-Fault Standard of Liability: Who is legally responsible for a bicycle accident in Nevada? It depends on how and why the bike accident happened. Nevada is an at-fault state for all types of motor vehicle crashes, including bike accidents. The negligent party can be held accountable for the resulting damages. For example, imagine that you were struck while riding a bike in Summerlin by a driver who ran a red light. That driver can be held legally liable for your accident. 
2. Modified Comparative Negligence: Nevada follows the modified comparative negligence rule (N.R.S. § 41-141). If a bicyclist is found partially at fault for the accident, they can still recover damages as long as they are not more than 50 percent responsible. That being said, their settlement or verdict will be reduced in a proportional manner. Imagine that you suffered $100,000 in damages in a bike accident. If you are deemed liable for 25 percent of your own accident, you would bear the legal burden for 25 percent of your own damages ($25,000). Every bike accident in Summerlin requires a comprehensive investigation. 

MOST COMMON REASONS BICYCLE ACCIDENTS HAPPEN IN SUMMERLIN

Cyclists can end up in collisions for a wide variety of different reasons. Though, many of these accidents happen because drivers fail to take proper care around riders. All bicycle accidents should be carefully investigated to determine exactly what went wrong. Here are some of the leading causes of bicycle accidents in Summerlin, NV: 

• Speeding: Speeding is extremely dangerous. Speeding drivers have less time to react to obstacles on the road, including bicyclists. Notably, higher rates of speed also increase the severity risk of any resulting crash. 
• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving—texting, using a smartphone, etc—diverts attention from the road. It dramatically increases the risk of a driver colliding with a bicyclist. Even a momentary lapse in focus can result in failing to see a cyclist until it is too late. 
• Following Too Closely: Drivers who tailgate bicyclists leave themselves inadequate space to stop in an emergency. It can lead to rear-end collisions. Tailgating is aggressive driving behavior that is especially dangerous when cyclists are around. 
• Running Red Lights/Stop Signs: Drivers who run red lights or run stop signs at intersections are creating a serious safety hazard. They may strike a bicycle. Motorists must be held accountable for violating traffic safety regulations. 
• Failure to Notice Cyclists: Many drivers fail to notice cyclists due to the smaller profile of bicycles compared to cars and trucks. It is an oversight that is a relatively common cause of bicycle accidents in Summerlin. 
• Bicyclist Errors: Not all collisions are caused by negligent drivers. Errors by cyclists—from not complying with traffic signals to weaving unpredictably through traffic—can lead to collisions. A bicyclist may be liable for part or all of their own crash.

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Bicycle Accident in Summerlin?

How long do you have to file a personal injury lawsuit after a bicycle accident in Summerlin? The Nevada statute of limitations for bicycle accident injury claims is two years from the date of the incident (N.R.S. § 11.190). Only very narrow exceptions apply to the rule. What happens if you miss the deadline for bicycle accident lawsuits? Most often, it means that you will lose out on your opportunity to bring a legal claim at all. Summerlin and Las Vegas bicycle accident clients should take a proactive approach for: Speak to a Summerlin, NV bicycle accident attorney right away following your bicycle crash. 

We Help Injured Cyclists in Summerlin Secure the Maximum Compensation

A bicycle accident can leave a person dealing with devastating, even catastrophic injuries. Nevada law is clear: Bicycle accident victims can pursue compensation for their economic losses and their non-economic damages through a personal injury claim. We are committed to helping injured victims navigate bicycle accident cases in the most effective, efficient manner—with a goal of helping people secure the most possible compensation. Your recovery may include: 

• Bicycle repairs; 
• Ambulance costs; 
• Emergency room care; 
• Hospital bills;
• Other medical costs;
• Lost wages;
• Loss of earning power; 
• Pain and suffering; 
• Mental distress; 
• Long-term disability; 
• Physical impairment; and
• Wrongful death. 

PROTECT YOURSELF: FIVE BICYCLE SAFETY TIPS

Drivers have a duty to look out for the health and safety of other parties, including cyclists and pedestrians. However, unfortunately, too many motorists fail to live up to this obligation. Given the safety risk, it is imperative that you cyclists proactively work to protect themselves. Here are five bike safety tips that riders can use in Nevada: 

1. Always Wear a Helmet: A helmet is your first line of defense in the event of a bicycle accident. It significantly reduces the risk of head injuries. Even though it is not required by Nevada state law, every rider needs a helmet. Ensure that your helmet fits properly and meets safety standards set by organizations such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It is best to replace your bicycle helmet on a periodic basis. 
2. Wear Reflective Clothing: Visibility is key to staying safe on a bicycle, especially during dawn, dusk, or night-time rides. Wearing reflective clothing or adding reflective strips to your biking gear can make you more visible to drivers. Opt for bright or neon colors that stand out in various lighting conditions. Reflective clothing helps in attracting drivers’ attention from a distance. You should make yourself as visible as possible. 
3. Practice Defensive Riding: Defensive riding involves being aware of your surroundings, anticipating potential hazards, and being prepared to take action to avoid them. Always keep a lookout for obstacles in your path, be cautious at intersections, and make eye contact with drivers when possible to ensure they have seen you. Avoid riding in drivers’ blind spots and signal your intentions clearly when turning or changing lanes.
4. Follow the Traffic Safety Laws: All cyclists in Nevada should follow local and state traffic regulations. By obeying traffic signals and signs, using designated bike lanes when available, and signaling your turns and stops to motorists, you can reduce your risk of being involved in a crash. 
5. Avoid Riding at Night When Possible: A highly disproportionate share of bicycle accidents happen at night. Reduced visibility is a serious safety hazard. When possible, you should limit riding at night. If you do need to ride before sunrise or after sunset, be sure to wear reflective clothing and to be especially careful. Do not assume that motorists can see you.

How Our Summerlin Bicycle Accident Injury Attorneys Can Help

Hurt in a bike accident in Summerlin? You deserve justice and the maximum financial compensation. At Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas, we go above and beyond to help injured victims get justice and the maximum financial compensation. Our firm has helped injured victims secure settlements and verdicts in excess of $300 million. We encourage you to review our case results, the testimonials from our clients, and to reach out to us directly with any specific questions. Our Summerlin bicycle accident lawyers are ready to: 

• Listen to your story and answer questions about personal injury claims; 
• Thoroughly investigate your bike accident—securing the evidence you need to prove fault; 
• Handle the legal claims paperwork, including handling settlement negotiations; and
• Take aggressive legal action focused on getting you and your family justice. 

We Represent Injured Cyclists in Summerlin On a Contingency Fee Basis

Legal representation on a contingency basis means that victims of bicycle accidents do not have to pay upfront fees. Instead, we only get paid when you get paid. You never have to worry about paying out-of-pocket expenses. As our payment is entirely contingent on winning your case, our interests are fully aligned with your interests. You can rely on our Summerlin, NV bicycle accident lawyers for top-tier legal guidance and support. Initial consultations are always free and carry no obligations. 

SUMMERLIN BIKE ACCIDENT CLAIMS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Are Cyclists Required to Wear a Helmet in Nevada?

Only minors. In Nevada, cyclists under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet while riding on public roads, paths, or any other publicly accessible areas. For adults over 18, wearing a helmet is not mandated by state law. Still, it is highly recommended to reduce the risk of head injuries. Bike helmets help to prevent concussions/TBIs. They can even save lives. 

What Does it Mean to “Buzz” a Bicyclist?

To “buzz” a bicyclist means to pass dangerously close to them. Most often, this happens because a driver leaves insufficient space between the vehicle and the cyclist. It is a practice that is extremely risky and can lead to accidents or cause the cyclist to swerve out of control. Nevada has a law against “buzzing.” It requires drivers to maintain a safe distance. 

How Does Comparative Negligence Apply to Bike Accident Claims?

Comparative negligence in bike accident claims means that if a cyclist is found partially at fault for an accident, they can still recover but their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, imagine a cyclist is 30 percent at fault in an accident in Summerlin and the damages amount to $10,000. Under Nevada law, they would only be able to recover for $7,000.

What Should I Do if I’m Involved in a Hit and Run Bike Accident?

If you are involved in a hit and run bike accident in Summerlin, it’s crucial to try to safely gather as much information as possible about the fleeing vehicle, such as make, model, color, and any part of the license plate number. Be sure to contact the police to report the incident and seek prompt medical attention. A Summerlin bike accident attorney can help you navigate the claims process. 

Should I Settle My Bicycle Accident Injury Claim?

You should only agree to settle your claim for full and fair value. Unfortunately, some insurance companies fight to pay out as little as possible to victims and families. Before you accept a bike accident injury settlement, consult with an experienced Summerlin, NV personal injury lawyer. Your attorney can review your case and help you secure the maximum financial compensation. 

Will My Personal Injury Claim Go to Trial?

It is a possibility, but is relatively uncommon. In Nevada, far more personal injury claims are resolved through a settlement than a verdict. However, some cases do end up in trial. You need a Summerlin bike accident lawyer who has the skills and experience to handle litigation against an aggressive insurance company.

Schedule Your Free Consultation With a Summerlin, NV Bicycle Accident Attorney

At Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas, our Summerlin bicycle injury lawyers are ready to protect your legal rights and financial interests. It is our mission to help our clients secure the absolute maximum financial compensation. If you or your loved one was hurt in a bicycle accident, we are here as a personal injury claims resource. Get in touch with us at (702) 570-2075 or contact us online for a free case review. Our firm represents bicycle accident victims in Summerlin, Clark County, and beyond.