Cincinnati Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Many drivers simply do not understand that bicyclists have the right to be on the road. Other drivers do not notice bicyclists. Both of these problems can cause bicycle accidents, resulting in serious injuries and, in the worst cases, wrongful death.

At the Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima law firm, our lawyers represent people who have been injured in bicycle accidents in the greater Cincinnati area. Our personal injury lawyers work with experts to investigate these accidents and understand the full extent of the victims’ injuries. With offices in Lebanon, West Chester, and downtown Cincinnati, we serve clients throughout southwest Ohio and northern Kentucky.

Our Cincinatti personal injury and car accident attorneys know that drivers will try to avoid responsibility for bicycle accidents. Drivers and their insurance companies may try to blame the bicyclists for being “in the middle of the road” or for “coming out of nowhere.” They fail to acknowledge that bicyclists have a right to be on the road and that drivers have the obligation to see them.

Ohio Bicycle Accident Laws

In Ohio, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. This means they must obey traffic signals, ride with the flow of traffic, and use lights at night. Ohio law requires drivers to maintain a minimum of three feet of clearance when passing a bicycle. Failure to adhere to these rules can result in liability for any accidents caused. Additionally, Ohio is a comparative negligence state, meaning that if a bicyclist is found partially at fault for an accident, their compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault. Understanding these laws is crucial for ensuring the safety and legal protection of all road users.

Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can occur due to various factors, many of which involve driver negligence or hazardous road conditions. Understanding these common causes can help in preventing accidents and ensuring safer roads for everyone.

• Distracted Driving: Drivers using phones or other devices may fail to notice bicyclists.
• Failure to Yield: Motorists often neglect to yield the right of way to bicyclists at intersections.
• Dooring: Opening a car door without checking for oncoming bicyclists can lead to serious collisions.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time, increasing the risk of hitting a bicyclist.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces can cause bicyclists to lose control.
• Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers pose a significant risk to bicyclists.

Addressing these issues through awareness and adherence to traffic laws can significantly reduce the occurrence of bicycle accidents and enhance safety for all road users.

Why Hire Our Cincinnati Bicycle Accident Lawyers?

Choosing the right legal representation after a bicycle accident is crucial for ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s why our Cincinnati bicycle accident lawyers stand out:

• Extensive Experience: With decades of practice, our team has a proven track record in handling bicycle accident cases.
• Personalized Attention: We provide dedicated and individualized legal services, ensuring your case receives the care it deserves.
• Aggressive Advocacy: We are committed to fighting for your rights, from negotiating settlements to representing you in court.
• Comprehensive Support: Our lawyers assist with every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence to dealing with insurance companies.

By choosing our firm, you are selecting a team that is dedicated to achieving your goals for your case. We are here to support you every step of the way.

Where Do Most Bicycle Accidents Happen?

While a bike accident can happen anywhere, they are very common at intersections, near parks and close to schools or shopping districts. The OTR area of Cincinnati is also a place that is popular with cyclists who are shopping, dining or using the city’s newer bike lanes. Many people also bike on River Road and Eastern Avenue because they are close to the city and also have newer bike lanes.

Unfortunately, adding bike lanes and slowing down vehicle traffic does not mean that cyclists are free from danger. Accidents still occur, and people get hurt, sometimes succumbing to their injuries. If you need a Cincinnati bike accident lawyer to protect your rights, please reach out to us today. Your consultation is free.

Talk To An Experienced Cincinnati Bicycle Accident Attorney

Contact us and tell us about your bike accident and your injuries. We represent people in Butler, and Hamilton counties as well as in the surrounding parts of southwest Ohio and northern Kentucky. We offer free consultations at all of our offices, by phone at 513-496-0134 or video conference.