When cycling through Greenwood’s scenic streets or along the Heritage Trail, no one expects their peaceful ride to end in an accident. Yet each year, bicycle crashes in our South Carolina community leave riders facing serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and complex legal challenges. At McCravy, Newlon, Sturkie, & Clardy, we understand the life-changing impact of a bicycle accident and are committed to guiding accident victims through every step of their recovery, including the pursuit of fair compensation.
An Overview of Bicycle Accidents in Greenwood
Bicycle accidents are, unfortunately, all too common in Greenwood and across South Carolina. These accidents may occur due to several factors, including driver negligence or poor road conditions. The impact of these accidents on victims and their families can be overwhelming, from the physical and emotional toll to financial hardships that seem to have no end. Given the vulnerability of cyclists compared to vehicle occupants, the injuries sustained are often severe as they range from broken bones and concussions to more life-altering conditions like spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injuries.
The complications of bicycle accident cases mean that victims need someone who is experienced in handling the unique issues related to bicycle injuries and who knows South Carolina law. When you choose McCravy, Newlon, Sturkie, & Clardy as your Greenwood bicycle accident attorney, you will be working with a team that understands the factors that can complicate these cases and knows how to build a solid case for compensation.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Greenwood
Many bicycle accidents are preventable, often caused by the failure of drivers or other parties to exercise proper care. Some common causes of bicycle accidents in Greenwood include:
- Driver negligence: Distracted, speeding, or reckless drivers frequently cause bicycle accidents by failing to yield the right of way, not checking blind spots, or disregarding traffic signals.
- Poor road conditions: Uneven pavement, potholes, and improperly maintained roadways can create hazardous situations for cyclists. Greenwood’s roads, like those in many other cities, sometimes lack the maintenance necessary for safe bicycling.
- Unsafe bike lanes: Inadequate bike lanes or their complete absence in some areas can put cyclists in danger, forcing them into car traffic, where risks multiply.
- Bicycle defects: In some cases, the accident may not be due to the fault of another driver but rather from a defect in the bicycle itself. Poorly manufactured or improperly assembled bikes can cause serious accidents.
These causes point to one thing: bicycle accident victims often suffer due to another party’s negligence. Identifying the cause of the accident is a vital step in building a claim which is why hiring a Greenwood bicycle accident lawyer who knows the law and the local conditions is essential.
Serious Injuries and Their Consequences
The injuries caused by bicycle accidents can range from moderate to severe, and some may even lead to permanent disabilities. Common injuries include:
- Head injuries: Even with a helmet, a cyclist may sustain concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs can result in lifelong cognitive and physical impairments.
- Broken bones and fractures: Cyclists often experience fractures due to the impact of the vehicle or the road.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or total paralysis, which dramatically alters a victim’s quality of life.
- Internal injuries: Internal bleeding or organ damage can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
The recovery process for these injuries is often long and filled with physical therapy, surgeries, and other forms of treatment. For many, returning to work is impossible for months, if at all. This leads to growing medical expenses, lost income, and mental distress. Working with a dedicated Greenwood bicycle accident attorney can help ensure responsible parties are held accountable. In return, it allows victims to focus on their recovery rather than the financial strain.
Proving Liability in Bicycle Accident Cases
Proving liability in a bicycle accident case can be challenging as it often requires detailed evidence and expert testimony. A key part of a successful claim is gathering and presenting the necessary evidence to show that another party was negligent. Our team at McCravy, Newlon, Sturkie, & Clardy will assist you in gathering police reports, eyewitness testimonies, photographs, and any other evidence necessary to strengthen your case.
In South Carolina, liability can also be influenced by the principle of comparative negligence, which means that if a cyclist is found partially responsible for the accident, the compensation may be lowered by the level of their fault. For example, if a cyclist was riding without proper lighting at night, they might be assigned partial fault. A Greenwood bicycle accident lawyer from our firm can help evaluate these aspects and present your case in the best possible light.
Note that South Carolina law grants cyclists the same rights as motor vehicle drivers. This means you have the right to use public roads and expect drivers to share the road safely. However, many drivers do not know or respect these rights.
When drivers violate your rights and cause accidents, they can be held legally responsible. Our Greenwood bicycle accident lawyer team ensures your rights are protected and fights for the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose McCravy, Newlon, Sturkie, & Clardy?
Choosing the right legal representation can be the key to a successful outcome. At McCravy, Newlon, Sturkie, & Clardy, we are deeply committed to each client’s case, offering personalized attention and robust legal strategies tailored to each unique situation. Our extensive knowledge of personal injury law, paired with our understanding of Greenwood’s roads and local conditions, enables us to provide strong representation in bicycle accident cases.
We know that every case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your concerns and goals. Our priority is helping you recover the full compensation you deserve while making the legal process as stress-free as possible. If you are looking for a Greenwood bicycle accident attorney who genuinely cares about your recovery and future, McCravy, Newlon, Sturkie, & Clardy is here to stand by your side.
Contact Our Team Today
Call McCravy, Newlon, Sturkie, & Clardy today at 866-MCCRAVY to speak with a skilled Greenwood bicycle accident attorney who will fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve. Your recovery is our priority, and we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process.