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Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Spinal Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle spinal injuries are a common symptom of collisions involving cyclists. While infrastructure for cyclists is improving, there are still plenty of dangers to riders, especially when they are cycling close to traffic.
If you suffer a collision, you can consult our Chicago bicycle crash lawyer team for legal advice regarding your injury claim.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries Sustained by Cyclists
The spinal column is a primary route for the body’s nervous system. It also serves as a base for the skeletal system. A complete spinal cord injury means there is no sensory function below the injury point. An incomplete spine injury means there is still sensory function below the damaged area.
Vertebral bone fractures can be dangerous. A stable fracture occurs when there is a break, but the vertebrae are still in alignment. Unstable fractures mean the vertebrae have been knocked out of alignment and often require surgery. The soft discs between your vertebrae could burst or bulge. These are usually called herniated discs or bulging discs.
Spine compression, whiplash, cervical spine damage, and soft tissue injuries are other effects you may suffer because of bicycle accidents. These injuries are also common in contact sports and vehicle accidents.
Consequences of Spinal Cord Injuries
Bicycle accident injuries involving your spine can have many symptoms. Some of the issues may be temporary and minor, such as back pain. However, more serious symptoms may include paralysis, loss of motor function, chronic pain, bowel or bladder dysfunction, respiratory problems, sexual dysfunction, and psychological issues.
Many victims of bicycle accidents with spine damage face emotional effects like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. There is also a risk of secondary health problems because of the initial injury, such as pressure sores, infections, or blood clots. Most difficult of all may be the effect the injury could have on your family and close relationships.
Common Causes of Chicago Bicycle Accidents Resulting in Spinal Injuries
Whether you suffer from a spinal cord injury, lacerations, or even a traumatic brain injury because of the collision, the cause of your accident is important for legal reasons.
Driver negligence is one of the leading causes of injured cyclists. A driver may not be paying attention to the road due to distractions. They could also ignore the presence of bike lanes or fail to obey traffic laws regarding cyclists.
Bikers have as many rights as drivers per municipal code 9-52-010. Busy intersections along Milwaukee Avenue, Pulaski Road, and the Lakefront Trail are particularly dangerous for bikers.
Another primary cause of bike crashes is road hazards. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and debris may not cause significant harm to larger vehicles, but they could cause a significant crash for a biker.
Liability for a Chicago Bicycle Accident Resulting in Spinal Cord Injury
When pursuing a spinal cord injury claim for a bike crash, you must establish liability for who is involved in causing it. Some parties that could be held liable for your head injury, brain damage, or spinal cord injury include employers, property owners, government entities, equipment manufacturers, or negligent drivers.
One of the most dangerous areas for bikers in Chicago is along Ashland Avenue. There have been eleven accidents involving bikes and vehicles along this road since 2015, making it a rather unsafe environment for bikers. Cicero Avenue, the Downtown Loop, and Near North Side are other zones to be wary of while cycling near traffic, especially at high speeds.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident Resulting in a Spinal Injury
Whether you are suffering from fractures, a major surgery, or damage to the brain after a bike accident, it is essential to follow these steps after the crash occurs.
Cyclists should always prioritize their health after the accident, seeking emergency medical attention and ongoing treatment options if necessary. Report your accident to the Chicago Police.
Document the accident scene by collecting photos, videos, and witness information. Preserve the condition of your helmet, bike, and clothing for evidence. Keep records of all medical expenses, procedures, and lost income. Never admit fault to anyone before speaking to an experienced lawyer.
Filing a Lawsuit for a Spinal Cord Injury Sustained in a Chicago Bicycle Accident
The legal process for an injury claim is complex, so you should always work with an expert law team before pursuing your claim.
Find a legal team that specializes in head injury or spinal cord injury cases. Your attorney will investigate the case, gather evidence, and file the lawsuit in Illinois courts. This will be followed by the discovery process, settlement negotiations, and potentially a civil trial.
Another factor to consider is life care planning for a victim with catastrophic injuries that have caused permanent changes to their lifestyle.
Compensation You May Be Entitled to After a Bicycle Accident Spinal Injury
If you have severe injuries, you may be entitled to more compensation from the at-fault party and their insurance company. Suffering from a severe head injury or spinal cord damage is likely to result in more long-term damage.
Economic damages for injured bicyclists could include lost income, medical expenses, future medical costs, and property damage. Non-economic losses may include emotional distress, mental anguish, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life.
Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accident Spinal Cord Injury Claims in Illinois
Per 735 ILCS 5/13-202, Illinois has a two-year statute of limitations for bicycle accident injury cases. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to seek compensation for your legal damages.
There may be some exceptions, but it is best to pursue justice as soon as possible to take advantage of fresh evidence and avoid the statute of limitations.
Why You Need an Experienced Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyer
An experienced lawyer will help you build a much stronger case. They will help you deal with insurance companies and defense lawyers. An attorney can assess all damages to maximize your compensation after the bicycle crash.
While you may not have access to medical experts and life care planners, an experienced law firm will. Lawyers who have years in the field also know the importance of compassionate support and guidance.
Secure Expert Legal Counsel!
While a spinal cord injury is one of the most common bicycle accident injuries, it is also one of the most devastating. Even the best safety gear and bicycle helmets cannot protect riders entirely.
Our Illinois bicycle crash lawyer team will guide you through the legal process and increase your chances of fair compensation. Thus, you can focus more on the healing process. Contact our team today to request your free consultation.
