Bicyclists Can Suffer Serious Injuries in a Collision or Accident

 Posted on January 10, 2019 in Personal Injury

Bicycles provide a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors while traveling from place to place, and they can help you save money on energy and transportation costs. However, these benefits also come with some serious risks, especially in cities such as Chicago, where large amounts of traffic and narrow streets can put bicyclists in danger of being injured in a collision. When riding, you should be aware of the potential injuries that can occur in a bicycle accident and the steps to take if you are injured. It is important to contact an attorney after an injury to determine your options for pursuing compensation from the negligent parties.

Common Bike Accident Injuries

• Head injuries - A helmet can provide essential protection in the case of a crash, but even when wearing a helmet, you may experience a concussion or traumatic brain injury. If you lose consciousness, experience severe headaches or confusion, or have vision problems, you should seek immediate medical attention.
• Neck and spine injuries - A collision can result in whiplash or back injuries, and more serious spine damage can cause long-lasting harm. If you experience numbness or tingling in your fingers or toes, you should go to the emergency room for treatment.
• Broken bones - Fractures can occur in an impact with a car or other vehicle, or when striking the ground after being knocked off your bike in a dooring accident. Common bones broken in bike accidents include the collarbones, facial bones, and bones in the legs, arms, and wrists.
• Rib injuries - Broken ribs are another common fracture that can occur in a collision, and it is important to receive treatment to ensure that these injuries do not result in a punctured lung. If you experience any difficulty breathing following an accident, you should receive medical attention as soon as possible.
• Internal injuries - Internal organs can be damaged in the impact with a bicycle’s handlebars or with other vehicles. Tenderness in the abdominal area or a firm or distended abdomen is a sign of that you could have internal bleeding.
• Lacerations and road rash - An impact with the road can cause serious cuts, bruises, and abrasions. Be sure to properly treat these wounds to ensure that they do not become infected.

Contact Our Chicago Bicycle Injury Attorneys

At Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC, we are experienced in helping bicyclists recover compensation for the injuries they have suffered. In one notable case, we obtained a $1 million settlement for a man who was injured when his bicycle seat broke, exposing a sharp edge that cut into his groin and caused internal injuries that required two surgeries.

If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, our Cook County personal injury lawyers can help determine your options for pursuing compensation from the party or parties who were responsible for your damages. Contact us today at 312-236-6324 to arrange a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.cyclingweekly.com/fitness/common-cycling-injuries-349671

https://www.bicycling.com/news/a20030134/7-things-emts-wish-you-knew-about-bike-crashes/