Arizona Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Arizona Bicycle Laws

Here is a list of key bicycle laws in Arizona that every cyclist should know.

• Stop for traffic lights and stop signs
• Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and on sidewalks
• Before you change lanes or make a turn, always check your surroundings, signal your intentions, and give way to any vehicles already in the lane. Cyclists can indicate their turns by extending their left arm for a left turn or their right arm for a right turn.
• Any vehicle moving slower than the normal traffic speed shall drive in the right-hand lane, or “as close as practicable” to the right edge of the road, except when preparing to turn left or when passing
• Any vehicle on a two-lane road that has five or more vehicles behind it must pull off at the first safe pullout to allow the vehicles behind to proceed
• Always use a white headlight and a red rear reflector when you cycle after sunset or before sunrise
• You may ride no more than two side-by-side, except on exclusive bike paths
• You must have at least one hand on the handlebars at all times

Knowing these laws can improve your safety while riding. If you find yourself in a bicycle accident, our Arizona bicycle accident lawyers are ready to help. Reach out to us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Damages Available for Biking Accident Victims in Arizona

Arizona bicycle accident victims can receive different types of damages (compensation) depending on the severity of their injuries and the details of the accident. Here are some of the damages:

• Medical Bills: This includes hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medication, rehab and any future medical expenses that come up because of the accident.
• Lost Wages: Victims can claim for the income they have lost while recovering from their injuries and any future earnings if they can’t go back to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress because of the accident. This can also include loss of enjoyment of life and any impact to the victim’s well being.
• Property Damage: This includes repair or replacement costs for the bike and any other personal property that was damaged in the crash.
• Disability and Disfigurement: If the accident causes a long term or permanent disability or disfigurement, victims can receive additional compensation for the impact to their life.
• Loss of Consortium: If the victim’s injuries affect their relationship with their spouse or family members, they can be compensated for loss of companionship or support.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where the at-fault party was extremely reckless or negligent, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter future behavior.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a serious bicycle accident, call our Arizona bicycle accident attorneys now for a FREE CONSULTATION. We are available 24/7 and NEVER CHARGE A FEE unless we win your case.

Why Should I Hire an Arizona Bike Accident Attorney?

When it comes to choosing legal representation after a bicycle accident, it’s vital. Thompson Law is the go-to for Arizona bike accident victims, we have a team of attorneys that specialize in these cases. We have a proven history of getting big settlements and personalized service for each client’s unique needs. Let Thompson Law handle your case so you can focus on recovery.

Thompson Law charges nothing upfront, and you pay no fees unless we get you compensation for your bike accident injuries. This eliminates risk and shows we believe we can get a good result. Our clients get access to our resources, top medical experts and accident reconstruction specialists to build your case.

We’re here 24/7 to help you through the process. By choosing Thompson Law, you get advocates who care about you and your outcome. Call Thompson Law today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Common Causes of Arizona Bicycle Accidents

When it comes to cyclist and motor vehicle accidents, several common causes can contribute to these unfortunate incidents. Below are the leading causes of bike collisions with motor vehicles in Arizona in 2023:

1. Driver inattention
2. Ran a stop sign or red light
3. Failure to yield to pedestrians
4. Speeding
5. Failure to yield on a private drive
6. Making an unsafe left turn
7. Ignored a stop-and-go signal
8. Turned when unsafe

Safety Tips for Arizona Cyclists

• Wear a helmet and other safety gear.
• Use hand signals.
• Follow traffic laws and ride in bike lanes when you can.
• Be seen by wearing bright or reflective clothes, using lights on your bike and not riding in blind spots.

Safety Tips for Arizona Drivers

• Yield to cyclists and give them space when passing or turning.
• Don’t distract yourself while driving (texting or eating).
• Check for cyclists before opening doors or turning.

By following these laws and tips, both cyclists and drivers can work together to make the roads safer for everyone.

If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident and suffered serious injury, call our Arizona bicycle accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION 24/7.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries in Arizona

Bike accidents are more serious than other types of accidents because of the inherent vulnerability of the cyclist when sharing the road with motor vehicles.

The difference in weight and speed between a bike and a motor vehicle means that even in minor accidents, the cyclist can suffer devastating consequences. And without the robust safety features that are standard in cars, like airbags and crumple zones, cyclists rely heavily on helmets and personal protective gear, which only provides limited protection.

So, the combination of exposure, lack of protection and high-impact scenarios makes bike accidents more severe for cyclists. Here are some of the most common bike accident injuries our Arizona bike accident lawyers see:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can cause lasting cognitive and physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These can cause paralysis and other mobility issues, life-changing for the victim.
• Broken Bones: Fractures often in the arms and legs may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Internal Injuries: High-impact collisions can cause internal bleeding and organ damage and need immediate medical attention.
• Road Rash: This can cause painful skin abrasions when skin is scraped off, potentially exposing tissue and, without proper cleaning and protection, can lead to infection.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains and contusions can have lasting effects if not managed properly.

How Long Do I Have to File a Bike Accident Lawsuit in AZ?

The Arizona statute of limitations sets the time frame of 2 years from the date of a bicycle accident in which you can file a lawsuit. Don’t miss this deadline or you can lose your right to get compensated for your damages.

If you or a loved one have been hurt in a bicycle accident, call our Arizona bicycle accident lawyers now and get your FREE CONSULTATION. NO FEE unless we win.

We Charge No Upfront Fees Unless We Win

At Thompson Law, we believe everyone deserves access to justice without financial barriers. That’s why our bicycle accident attorneys handle cases on a contingency fee basis – you won’t pay any upfront costs, and we only get paid if we win your case. If we’re unable to secure compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

Time is critical after a bicycle accident. Speaking with an experienced attorney early can protect your rights and strengthen your claim. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to answer your questions, evaluate your case, and guide you through the process. With the option to sign up over the phone, you can take immediate action before insurance companies attempt to limit your recovery.

Our bilingual staff ensures Spanish-speaking clients receive the same clear, compassionate representation. Don’t face the complexities of a bicycle accident claim alone. Contact Thompson Law today for a free case evaluation and let us fight to secure the compensation you deserve.

Arizona Bicycle Accident FAQs

What happens if the driver who hit me doesn’t have enough insurance to compensate me for my injuries and damages?

If the at-fault driver in Arizona lacks sufficient insurance, you may be able to file a claim under your own underinsured motorist coverage (if you carry it). This coverage helps bridge the gap between the at-fault driver’s liability limits and your total damages. Additionally, you can explore other avenues, such as personal injury lawsuits, to recover compensation. Consulting an experienced attorney can help you navigate your options and maximize your recovery.

What happens with my bicycle accident case if I am found to be at fault?

In Arizona, which follows a comparative negligence rule, being partially at fault for a bicycle accident doesn’t necessarily bar you from recovering compensation. Instead, your damages may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you are found 30% at fault, you can still recover 70% of your total damages. An attorney can help assess the details of your case and build a defense to minimize your liability.

Will my damaged bicycle be replaced with a new one?

Whether your damaged bicycle will be replaced depends on the terms of the insurance policy and the specifics of the claim. If the at-fault driver’s insurance covers property damage, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or a replacement, depending on the bike’s value and the cost of repairs. If you have personal insurance, such as tenant or homeowner’s insurance, it may also help cover the cost of replacing your bicycle.

Can someone be held liable for your injuries without a collision?

Yes, someone can be held liable for your injuries even if there was no physical collision. For instance, if a motorist’s reckless or negligent behavior (like forcing you off the road) caused your crash, they may still be held responsible. Similarly, property owners or municipalities may be liable if hazardous road conditions or obstructions caused your accident. It’s crucial to gather evidence and consult an attorney to establish liability.

What is the “Dead Red” law?

Arizona’s “Dead Red” law allows cyclists to proceed through a red light after coming to a full stop if the light fails to detect their presence due to their bike’s weight or size. Cyclists must exercise caution and ensure it’s safe to cross before proceeding. This law is designed to address situations where traffic signals are triggered by vehicle sensors that may not recognize bicycles.

Who is responsible if a defective road caused my bicycle accident?

If a defective road, such as potholes, uneven pavement, or lack of signage, caused your accident, the government entity responsible for road maintenance may be held liable. However, filing a claim against a government agency often has specific rules and strict deadlines. Consulting an experienced attorney familiar with Arizona’s laws can help you navigate this process and determine responsibility.