Bicycle Accident Attorneys
We Can Help Bicycle Accident Victims Recover Compensation
Bicycle riders have the same right to the road as drivers of motor vehicles, but, unfortunately, some drivers fail to notice cyclists or drive aggressively around them, which can lead to dangerous conditions. Injuries resulting from bicycle accidents merit careful attention, not only because of a bike rider’s vulnerability to serious injuries but also because of intersecting and sometimes conflicting laws concerning whether a bicyclist is considered a pedestrian or a vehicle.
If you suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, you should promptly seek assistance from experienced lawyers. At Becker Franklin Rovang, we have successfully represented individuals injured in bicycle accidents. Our team understands how to approach these claims and can fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our bicycle accident lawyers are ready to discuss your case. Contact us online or call (360) 800-3009 today to schedule your free consultation.
our case results Our Clients Always Come First
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$4,700,000 Recovery - Negligence
Recovery for disabled man neglected in Kitsap County Jail who suffered brain damage and quadriplegia.
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$750,000 Rear End Auto Accident - Settlement
Settlement for a 32 year old female rear-ended on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in a multicar accident involving road rage.
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$500,000 Work Injury - Settlement
Settlement for a workplace injury (Navy Shipyard) for a “temporary” worker.
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$430,000 Auto Accident - Settlement
Settlement for auto accident victim with fractured ankle sustained in T-bone accident.
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$368,000 Pedestrian Accident - Settlement
Settlement for high school girl running to school bus when hit by a car (school bus failed to stop across from her residence per district rules).
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$274,000 Recovery - Sexual Abuse
Recovery for two girls groomed and sexually abused by Church pastor who was criminally convicted. Settlement included proceeds from insurance, sale of church property, and sale of pastor’s personal residence.
If you or a loved one have an injury case in Kitsap, Pierce or Thurston counties, contact our office for a NO COST consultation. (360) 800-3009 or, complete our online contact form to get started.
Understanding the Complexity of Bicycle Accident Liability
In Washington state, a pedestrian generally has the right of way, and while a bike rider is sometimes given the same protections as a pedestrian, a bicyclist is also given the same duties as a motorized vehicle operator in many scenarios. Consequently, liability in bicycle accident is often disputed by insurance companies.
Bicyclists may also face claims of comparative fault if their bikes were not equipped with proper lights and reflectors when riding at night. Helmets are not required by state law but may be required by a specific city or county. Despite what you might assume, bicyclists are not prohibited from wearing headphones or earbuds.
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“Steve Franklin was caring and extremely helpful during the traumatic time.”
- KCI never left a review after the incredible services this law firm provided me. I was in a car accident. Steve Franklin was caring and extremely helpful during the traumatic time. I was new to living in the area and felt so comfortable and supported by him. Five years later…. They still send me birthday cards. I know, I know…. It may seem silly, but this is such a sweet gesture! 10/10 Recommend.
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“The team I got to work with was fantastic!”
- Stephanie W.The team I got to work with was fantastic! They are very responsive, kind, and understanding. I was lucky enough to get their help for a complicated situation and am very glad I found them and chose to work with them on my case. Highly recommend!
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“Set realistic expectations and delivered.”
The whole team helped resolve my suit as expeditiously as possible with an ultimately acceptable outcome. Good communication and wonderful people to work with, set realistic expectations and delivered. 10/10 would not advise getting in a car wreck, but if you do these are the people to call!- Colin S. -
“They handled my case so meticulously and didn’t miss a thing!”
I worked with Steve for over a year and him and his team are absolutely amazing! They handled my case so meticulously and didn’t miss a thing! When he explained things to me he always broke it down so I understood exactly what was happening and of- Lauren R.
Relevant Biking Laws That Could Impact Your Case
Under Washington state’s “Rules of the Road,” bicyclists are generally required to keep to the right of the road. Bike riding is usually permitted on the shoulder of a roadway and in any designated bike lane.
Passing vehicles are required to pass to the left of the bike at a safe distance. They cannot return to occupy the lane until they are clear of the overtaken bicyclist. The “Rules of the Road” do not require motorists to yield to bike riders except when the bicyclist is using a sidewalk. The most common scenario in this instance is when the motorist is entering or exiting a driveway.
On the other hand, bicyclists who are crossing a roadway at any point other than a marked or unmarked crosswalk must yield to all vehicles. A bicycle rider crossing in a marked or unmarked crosswalk is often given the same protection as a pedestrian. A bike rider cannot enter a crosswalk or the path of a vehicle when an automobile is so close it cannot safely yield.
If you are not sure what laws apply to your case or whether you have a strong claim, reach out to Becker Franklin Rovang. We can answer your questions, review the details of your situation, and walk you through your rights and options.
where you can find us Our Office Locations
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Port Orchard1730 Pottery Avenue
Suite 210
Port Orchard, WA 98366 -
Poulsbo19307 8th Avenue NE
Suite C
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents often occur as a result of driver negligence. “Driver negligence” refers to a range of behaviors that can compromise the safety of cyclists on the road. When a bicycle accident is the result of driver negligence, the negligent driver is generally liable for the bicyclist’s injuries and other damages.
Types of driver negligence that frequently cause bicycle accidents include:
- Distracted driving. This can include anything from texting or using a mobile phone to adjusting the radio or engaging in conversations. When drivers are not fully focused on the road, they are more likely to overlook cyclists, leading to avoidable collisions.
- Failure to yield. Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield to cyclists at intersections or when turning. This might happen when a driver doesn't see the cyclist or misjudges the distance and speed, ultimately leading to a dangerous collision.
- Speeding. Excessive speed reduces a driver's reaction time and increases the severity of any accidents that may occur. When drivers do not adhere to speed limits, they are less able to respond swiftly to cyclists who may appear unexpectedly, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
- Improper lane changes. Drivers sometimes fail to check their blind spots or signal appropriately when changing lanes. This can lead to accidents with cyclists who may be positioned in a driver's blind spot.
- Running stop signs or traffic lights. Ignoring traffic signals is a common form of negligence that creates a hazardous environment for cyclists. When drivers run red lights or stop signs, they can collide with cyclists who are lawfully crossing intersections.
- Driving under the influence. Alcohol or drug impairment severely affects a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. Substance use can distort a driver's perception and lead to reckless behavior, increasing the risk of collisions with cyclists.
- Road rage. Aggressive driving behaviors stemming from road rage can also lead to cyclist accidents. Drivers who exhibit impatience or hostility may put cyclists at risk by darting too closely to them or attempting to intimidate them.
Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accident Cases
The statute of limitations for filing a bicycle accident lawsuit in Washington state is generally three years from the date of the collision. If you do not file before this deadline, you will likely be unable to recover any compensation.
While three years may seem like a long time, you should not wait to start the legal process. The sooner you get in touch with our bicycle accident attorneys, the sooner we can get to work on securing the compensation you need to move forward.
Get legal advice today if you were recently injured in a bicycle accident! Call (360) 800-3009 or contact us online to get started.
