Bicycle accidents in Morgantown, West Virginia, are especially common near West Virginia University, but they can happen in other locations as well. Bicycle collisions frequently result in debilitating injuries, since bicyclists have limited protection while they are on the road.
If you suffered injuries in a recent Morgantown bicycle crash, the experienced lawyers at Robinette Legal Group, PLLC, are prepared to advocate for your interests and pursue the compensation you need to become whole again.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Morgantown bicycle accident attorney, please call us at (304) 594-1800 or contact us online right away.
Why Choose Us?
Victims of Morgantown bicycle accidents frequently suffer injuries that prevent them from working or going to school. Their injuries may also lead to high medical expenses, resulting in a significant financial burden.
If you suffered injuries in a Morgantown bicycle collision, the legal team at Robinette Legal Group, PLLC, is on your side. Our lawyers have successfully represented victims of serious accidents throughout the State of West Virginia and have recovered numerous favorable settlements and litigation results over the years. We also limit our caseloads so that we can give you and your case the individualized attention they deserve.
You can view our most recent client testimonials and case results by clicking on the following links.
Our office is conveniently located at 211 Everhart Drive, Suite 200, Morgantown, WV 26508.
How Much Money is my Morgantown Bicycle Accident Case Worth?
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle crash in Morgantown, West Virginia, you may be wondering how much compensation you can recover for your injuries and other damages. The total amount of compensation you may receive will depend upon several factors, including the seriousness of your injuries and the specific circumstances surrounding your accident.
Types of Compensation You May Be Eligible to Recover:
- Medical Expenses – This includes costs for related hospital visits, procedures, physical therapy, occupational therapy, medications, and anticipated medical care. If your injuries are serious, medical expenses can add up quickly.
- Property Damage – If your bicycle or any other property was damaged in the accident, you can be compensated for the repair or replacement costs. This includes the cost to repair your bike – or replace it if it’s beyond repair
- Lost Wages – If your bicycle-accident injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for the income you lose while you’re unable to work. This includes not only the wages you lost during your recovery but also any potential future earnings if you suffered a long-term or permanent injury
- Lost Quality of Life – If the bicycle accident has significantly altered your ability to enjoy life or perform daily activities, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss.
- Past and Future Pain and Suffering – This compensation addresses the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the bicycle accident and your injuries. It’s subjective and varies from case to case. Factors such as the severity of your injuries and how they affect your daily life play a role in determining this compensation amount.
- Emotional Distress – Besides pain and suffering, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your emotional distress. This can include anxiety, depression, or other psychological effects resulting from the bike accident.
To get a precise estimate of how much you may recover, it’s best to consult with a Morgantown bicycle accident lawyer at Robinette Legal Group, PLLC. We can thoroughly assess your case, consider all of these factors, and help you understand your potential compensation. We can also guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Where Do Bicycle Accidents Frequently Happen in Morgantown, WV?
In Morgantown, West Virginia, bicycle accidents resulting from driver negligence often occur in several key locations, including all of the following:
- Intersections – Intersections are high-risk areas for bicycle accidents due to the increased likelihood of conflicts between vehicles and cyclists. Drivers may fail to see cyclists, especially when making turns or running red lights. Morgantown’s busy intersections, such as those at the intersections of Don Knotts Boulevard and Van Voorhis Road – or at the intersection of High Street and University Avenue – are notable hotspots for such accidents.
- Busy Streets and Roads – Streets with high traffic volumes and multiple lanes can be particularly dangerous for cyclists. Areas like Patteson Drive and Greenbag Road, where traffic is heavy and speeds are relatively high, are prone to bicycle accidents. Negligent drivers may fail to maintain proper distance from cyclists or become impatient, leading to risky maneuvers that can result in collisions.
- Bicycle Lanes and Shared Paths – Even in designated bicycle lanes or shared paths, accidents can occur due to driver negligence. Drivers may illegally park in bike lanes or fail to yield when merging into bike lanes. Morgantown’s bike lanes on streets like Beechurst Avenue and Willey Street can be problematic if drivers are not attentive to cyclists.
- Residential Areas – Accidents also frequently happen in residential neighborhoods. Drivers may become distracted or speed while navigating through residential streets, which can lead to accidents involving cyclists. Areas with narrow streets and limited visibility, such as those near Sunnyside or along the streets leading to WVU’s campus, can be particularly hazardous.
- Near Schools and Universities – Locations around schools and universities often see a higher volume of cyclists and pedestrians, increasing the risk of accidents. Morgantown’s proximity to West Virginia University means that areas near the campus – especially during peak times when students are arriving or leaving – can experience more frequent bike accidents due to distracted or rushed drivers.
Types of Bicycle Crashes in Morgantown
In Morgantown, West Virginia, several common categories of bicycle accidents result from driver negligence, each with distinct causes. Some of the most common accident types include:
- Right Hook Accidents – One prevalent type of bicycle accident in Morgantown is the right hook accident, where a vehicle turns right at an intersection or driveway while a cyclist is going straight. Drivers may not check their blind spots or may fail to signal their intentions, leading to collisions with cyclists who are traveling in the same direction.
- Left Cross Accidents – Left cross accidents happen when a driver makes a left turn across the path of an oncoming cyclist. Drivers may misjudge the cyclist’s speed or fail to notice them altogether – particularly at intersections with poor visibility or where drivers are distracted.
- Dooring Accidents – Dooring accidents occur when a parked vehicle’s occupant opens their door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. In Morgantown, this often happens on streets with parallel parking, such as Willey Street, where drivers or passengers may not check for oncoming cyclists before opening their doors. Negligent behavior, such as failing to look for cyclists, contributes significantly to these types of accidents.
- Rear-End Collisions – In rear-end collisions, a vehicle strikes a cyclist from behind. This can happen due to drivers not maintaining a safe following distance, distracted driving, or speeding. Roads with high traffic volumes and limited space for cyclists, such as Patteson Drive, are particularly risky for this type of accident. Drivers who are not attentive – or who tailgate cyclists – increase the likelihood of rear-end collisions.
- Failure to Yield – Accidents resulting from drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way to cyclists often occur at intersections, crosswalks, or merge areas. Drivers may not be aware of cyclists’ right-of-way or may be distracted. Areas near schools, universities, or busy commercial zones, like those around WVU’s campus, can see more frequent instances of this type of negligence.
Common Injuries in Morgantown Bicycle Accidents
In Morgantown, West Virginia, bicycle accidents resulting from driver negligence can lead to a variety of injuries:
Physical Injuries:
- Head and Brain Injuries – Despite wearing helmets, cyclists can still suffer from head and brain injuries, such as concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries occur due to the force of the collision with the ground or another vehicle. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
- Fractures and Broken Bones – Cyclists often suffer fractures or broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and collarbones, due to the force of the impact. Common fractures include those of the radius and ulna in the forearm, the femur, and tibia in the legs.
- Road Rash and Lacerations – When cyclists are thrown from their bikes, they may experience road rash (abrasions from contact with the pavement) and lacerations. These injuries can range from minor to severe, potentially requiring stitches and extensive wound care.
- Spinal Injuries – Severe accidents can result in spinal injuries, including herniated discs or even spinal cord injuries. These injuries may lead to long-term mobility issues or paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the injury.
Mental Injuries:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Victims of bicycle accidents may develop PTSD, including flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety. The traumatic experience of the bike accident can have lasting psychological effects.
- Depression and Anxiety – Many cyclists experience depression or anxiety following an accident – especially if their injuries have a long-term effect on their daily lives or activities. This can affect their overall quality of life and require therapeutic intervention.
Medical Treatment:
- Emergency Care – Initial treatment typically involves emergency care, including hospitalization, imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs), and surgery if needed.
- Rehabilitation – Long-term medical treatment often includes physical therapy to recover from fractures, surgeries, or spinal injuries. Rehabilitation aims to restore mobility, strength, and function.
- Psychological Counseling – For mental injuries, psychological counseling or therapy may be necessary to address PTSD, depression, or anxiety and help bicycle accident victims cope with their experiences.
Fighting the Insurance Company in a Morgantown Bike Accident Case
Fighting an insurance company after a bicycle accident in Morgantown, West Virginia, involves a series of strategic steps to ensure you receive fair compensation. At Robinette Legal Group, PLLC, here’s how we can help you in this process:
- Obtaining Important Evidence – We start by collecting crucial evidence related to the bicycle accident. This includes police reports, witness statements, photos of the accident scene, medical bills, and medical records. Strong evidence is essential to support your claim and counter any disputes that the insurance company raises in your case.
- Estimating Damages – We evaluate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Accurate damage assessment helps us determine the fair value of your claim and ensures that the insurance company does not undervalue your losses.
- Negotiating with Insurance Adjusters – Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by offering low settlements or denying claims. We handle all negotiations with the insurance adjusters on your behalf. Our goal is to secure a fair settlement by presenting a compelling case based on the evidence and damages assessed.
- Handling Insurance Company Denials and Delays – If the insurance company denies your claim or delays payment, we take appropriate action. This may involve challenging the denial, filing appeals, or pursuing legal action if necessary. We ensure that your rights are protected and work tirelessly to overcome any obstacles.
- Legal Representation – Should your case escalate to litigation, we provide robust legal representation. We prepare your case for court, present evidence, and argue on your behalf to seek the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take after a Morgantown Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle collision in Morgantown, West Virginia, taking specific steps can significantly affect the outcome of your case:
- Complete Your Medical Treatment – Follow through with all doctor-recommended medical treatment and physical therapy. This not only ensures that your health is managed properly but also creates a comprehensive record of your injuries and recovery, which is essential for your personal injury claim or lawsuit.
- Retain Medical Records and Documentation – Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, expenses, and any related documents. This includes bills, receipts, and reports. Documenting your injuries and associated costs is essential for substantiating your claim.
- Avoid Speaking with the Insurance Company – Refrain from discussing the accident with insurance adjusters until you have legal representation. Insurance companies may use your statements against you to minimize their payout. Let us handle all communications to protect your interests.
- Consult an Experienced Morgantown Bicycle Accident Lawyer Right Away – At Robinette Legal Group, PLLC, we will do everything possible to obtain the full compensation you deserve.
Speak to an Experienced Morgantown Bicycle Accident Lawyer about Your Case Today
If you recently sustained injuries in a Morgantown, West Virginia bicycle collision, the legal team at Robinette Legal Group, PLLC, is prepared to fight for your interests and pursue the maximum compensation available in your claim or lawsuit. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Morgantown personal injury attorney, please call us at (304) 594-1800 or contact us online today.
Robinette Legal Group, PLLC – Morgantown Office Location
211 Everhart Dr Ste 200,
Morgantown, WV 26508,
United States
Contact Number – (304) 403-7504
Call us today to find out how we can help you.
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