Free Consultation
Injured in a bicycle accident? Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for your rights.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Road Rash Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accident burns in Chicago are rare, but they can be devastating. Although it may be more economical and healthy to bike, there are increased risks because of the lack of protection.
Accidents involving motor vehicles, pedestrians, road hazards, and even other cyclists can cause significant injuries. If you do get injured, our Chicago bike crash law firm can help with your claim.
How Can Bicycle Accidents Cause Burn Injuries?
Suffering from a burn could happen in collisions with other vehicles. Sometimes, these crashes ignite fires that come in contact with your skin. Contact with hot vehicle components, such as exhaust pipes or engines, could also lead to burns.
If you are riding an e-bike, the battery could explode. An accident could involve road debris or chemical spills that burn you when you fall off the bike.
Road rash injuries are sometimes referred to as road burn injuries. A road burn occurs when your skin is scraped along the surface of the road, causing the skin to be cut. Road rash is very painful and can leave permanent scarring behind.
Types of Burns and Their Severity
There are four levels of burns.
A first-degree burn is considered superficial and only affects the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. Second-degree burns penetrate the next layer of skin, the dermis, which is regarded as partial thickness.
A third-degree burn is much more severe and can cause permanent scarring, skin grafts, nerve damage, and a long healing process. All skin layers, as well as some fat or muscle tissue, are affected.
A fourth-degree burn affects soft tissue far below the skin layers, such as ligaments, tendons, muscles, and bones. Due to potential complications, this severe type of wound requires extensive treatment.
Liability in Chicago Bicycle Accidents Resulting in Burn Injuries
Liability for your bike crash will play an essential role in a legal claim. You must prove that the other party was negligent, which includes a duty of care, a breach of that duty, causation, and legal damages. The underlying cause of your injuries is the key to establishing negligence.
Several parties could be held responsible for your suffering. Negligent drivers are often at fault for hitting bikers and causing a road burn or other injury, since bikers have the same rights as drivers per municipal code 9-52-010. Employers of at-fault drivers could also be accountable through a statute called vicarious liability.
Vehicle manufacturers may be liable if a vehicle defect caused the accident or the fire that burned the affected area. Equipment manufacturers could also be responsible for a battery explosion or another malfunction that causes injuries. Finally, the city of Chicago or another government entity may be accountable if road hazards contribute to the crash.
Steps to Take After a Chicago Bicycle Accident Involving Burn Injuries
Whether you suffer road rash injuries, nerve damage, or permanent scarring from the crash, you may have a right to compensation if someone else’s negligence caused the collision.
First, seek immediate medical attention from a doctor to address your road burn injuries. Report the accident to the local police department. Document the scene with photos, videos, and witness information.
Preserve any physical evidence from the scene, such as your bike, helmet, and clothing. Keep records of all your medical treatment, expenses, and lost income. Finally, do not admit fault or discuss the accident with anyone until you speak to a bicycle accident lawyer.
Filing a Lawsuit for Burn Injuries Sustained in a Chicago Bicycle Accident
While a lawsuit could help you recover financially from road rash injuries or burns, the process can be confusing. First, you should consult with an attorney. Your claim will be investigated, and evidence will be gathered. You will then file the lawsuit in court with the help of your lawyer. A discovery process, settlement negotiation, and potential trial will follow.
Compensation You May Be Entitled to for a Burn Injury Bicycle Accident Claim
You could seek compensation for numerous legal damages if you were injured in a bike crash in Chicago. Economic losses include medical treatment costs, future medical expenses, lost wages, physical therapy bills, and property damage. Non-economic damages may include emotional distress, depression, anxiety, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Why You Need an Experienced Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyer for Burn Injuries
An experienced attorney can support your injury claim. First, these professionals understand the complications of burn injury cases. They know how to deal with insurance companies and defense lawyers. Your attorney will ensure all damages are assessed for maximum compensation, including lifelong recovery needs.
Access to medical experts and other specialists may only be possible through a personal injury law firm. Finally, many lawyers can offer compassionate support and legal guidance.
Secure Expert Legal Counsel!
If you have suffered from scarring, skin burns, road rash injuries, an infection, or worse, you deserve a chance to win compensation. Our Illinois bike crash law firm will provide legal assistance so you can focus on the healing process and physical therapy.
Contact our team today to request your free legal consultation.
