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Phoenix’s warm weather and scenic landscapes make it a popular city for bicyclists. Whether commuting, exercising, or riding recreationally, cyclists enjoy the freedom and health benefits of traveling on two wheels. However, the reality is that bicycling in Phoenix also comes with risks. Bicycle accidents are an unfortunate consequence of negligent drivers, unsafe road conditions, and other preventable factors.
At Torgenson Law, we understand the devastating consequences of bicycle accidents. Our team of dedicated personal injury lawyers is committed to helping injured cyclists hold responsible parties accountable and pursue the compensation they need to recover fully.
Bicycle accidents remain a concern on Phoenix streets, as data from the 2020 Bicycle-Related Collision Summary highlights the scope and nature of these incidents. This comprehensive report sheds light on key trends, accident locations, and contributing factors, offering valuable insights into the challenges faced by cyclists in Phoenix.
In 2020, Phoenix recorded 267 bicycle-related collisions, resulting in 263 injuries and 4 fatalities. While these incidents represented only 1% of all traffic collisions, they accounted for 3% of all injuries and 2% of all fatalities on city streets. Encouragingly, the number of bike crashes saw a 29% decrease from 2019, continuing a five-year downward trend.
Certain demographics were disproportionately affected by bicycle collisions in Phoenix:
The timing and location of bicycle accidents reveal critical risk factors:
These statistics inform Phoenix’s ongoing efforts to enhance cyclist safety. By identifying high-risk locations and trends, city planners and officials can design safer bicycle facilities, improve roadway infrastructure, and develop education and enforcement programs for both cyclists and motorists.
Understanding these patterns is essential to reducing bicycle accidents in Phoenix and ensuring a safer, more accessible environment for all road users. At Torgenson Law, we stand with injured cyclists, advocating for justice and accountability when accidents occur.
Bicycle accidents often occur due to the negligence of drivers, unsafe road conditions, or other preventable factors. Understanding the common causes can help cyclists and motorists alike work toward safer streets.
Negligent driving is one of the leading causes of bicycle accidents in Phoenix. Drivers may fail to notice cyclists, particularly when distracted by texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car technology. Speeding, failing to yield at intersections, or making abrupt lane changes without checking for cyclists are other common behaviors that lead to collisions.
Phoenix’s infrastructure can present challenges for cyclists, including potholes, debris, and poorly maintained bike lanes. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable to accidents caused by unmarked hazards or uneven pavement, as even a minor obstacle can lead to a serious crash.
“Dooring” accidents occur when a parked driver opens their car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. These incidents are common in urban areas where vehicles park alongside bike lanes and can result in severe injuries to the cyclist.
While Phoenix enjoys year-round sunshine, the intense glare of the sun can reduce visibility for drivers and cyclists alike. Additionally, early morning and evening rides can increase the risk of collisions due to low light conditions.
Bicyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road due to their lack of protective barriers, such as the steel frames, airbags, and seat belts that safeguard motor vehicle occupants. When a collision occurs, the force of impact often results in severe injuries that can alter a cyclist’s life. The most common injuries sustained in bicycle accidents include:
Even with a helmet, bicyclists remain at significant risk of head trauma during a collision. A TBI can result from a direct blow to the head or violent jarring during an accident. The effects of a TBI range from mild concussions to severe cognitive impairments, including memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and permanent disability. In extreme cases, TBIs may lead to long-term care needs and a complete loss of independence. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of TBIs, but it cannot eliminate it entirely, especially in high-impact accidents.
The spinal cord is highly susceptible to injury during a bicycle accident, particularly in cases involving high-speed impacts or falls from significant heights. Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, affecting a cyclist’s ability to move or control their body below the site of the injury. These injuries often require extensive medical care, including surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation. Victims may also need assistive devices, such as wheelchairs or mobility aids, and significant home modifications to accommodate their disabilities.
The impact of a collision often causes cyclists to sustain fractures or broken bones. These injuries frequently affect the arms, legs, hips, or ribs, particularly if the cyclist is thrown from their bike or pinned beneath a vehicle. Fractures can vary in severity, with some requiring surgical intervention to realign bones and install pins, plates, or screws. Recovery from broken bones often involves prolonged periods of immobilization, physical therapy, and time away from work or daily activities.
Soft tissue injuries, including torn ligaments, muscle strains, and deep lacerations, are common in bicycle accidents. Cyclists may sustain cuts and abrasions (commonly referred to as “road rash”) when they slide across pavement or come into contact with sharp objects during a crash. While some soft tissue injuries heal with rest and basic care, severe cases may require surgery, ongoing pain management, and physical therapy to restore mobility. Chronic pain and scarring are also common outcomes of these injuries.
These injuries can lead to overwhelming financial burdens, including substantial medical expenses, lost income from time off work, and ongoing rehabilitation costs. Beyond the physical toll, bicycle accident victims often face significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. The challenges of adjusting to a new way of life, particularly after severe injuries such as paralysis or cognitive impairment, can be daunting for victims and their families.
Determining liability is a crucial step in pursuing compensation after a bicycle accident. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may share responsibility for causing the collision or contributing to the cyclist’s injuries. Understanding who may be held liable ensures that injured cyclists can pursue all available avenues for recovery.
Drivers are often at fault in bicycle accidents due to behaviors such as speeding, distracted driving, failing to yield, or disregarding traffic signals. A driver who strikes a cyclist because they were texting, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or not paying attention to the road may be held accountable for the resulting injuries and damages. Drivers have a duty to share the road responsibly, and failing to do so constitutes negligence.
Poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, defective traffic signals, or unsafe bike lane designs can make local or state government agencies liable for bicycle accidents. For example, a pothole in a bike lane or an unmarked construction zone could cause a cyclist to crash. Filing a claim against a government entity involves specific legal procedures and deadlines, making it essential to work with an experienced attorney.
Defective bicycle components or safety equipment can also contribute to accidents. If a malfunctioning brake, poorly designed tire, or defective helmet caused or worsened the cyclist’s injuries, the manufacturer may bear responsibility under product liability laws. Liability may extend to designers, manufacturers, or distributors of the faulty product.
Private property owners may be held liable if hazardous conditions on their property contribute to a bicycle accident. For example, a cyclist riding on a shared-use path or crossing a driveway may be injured by debris, poor lighting, or unmarked hazards. Property owners have a duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions for cyclists and other visitors.
In some cases, another cyclist or pedestrian may cause an accident through negligence. For instance, a pedestrian jaywalking or stepping into a bike lane without looking could create a collision, as could a cyclist who weaves unpredictably or fails to obey traffic laws. While these cases are less common, they highlight the need for everyone to act responsibly on shared roads and pathways.
If a bicycle accident involves a rideshare driver or commercial vehicle, liability may extend to the driver’s employer or the rideshare company. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their drivers are properly trained and follow safety protocols. Rideshare companies may also face liability if their app-based systems contribute to distracted driving.
In cases involving a hit-and-run driver, the injured cyclist may face challenges in identifying the responsible party. However, uninsured motorist coverage or other insurance policies may provide compensation in these situations. Working with an attorney can help locate the hit-and-run driver and explore alternative avenues for recovery.
At Torgenson Law, we understand the complexity of determining liability in bicycle accidents. Our team conducts thorough investigations to identify all responsible parties, from negligent drivers to government agencies or manufacturers. By pursuing all potential sources of compensation, we work to secure the justice and financial recovery our clients deserve.
The moments following a bicycle accident can be chaotic and overwhelming, but the actions you take immediately afterward are crucial for protecting your health, safeguarding your legal rights, and strengthening your potential claim. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you take the right steps after a bicycle accident:
Your health is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to see a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage, may not show immediate symptoms but can worsen over time without treatment. Prompt medical attention ensures that your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated. Additionally, medical records will serve as vital evidence linking your injuries to the accident, which is critical for your legal claim.
If you are physically able, document the accident scene thoroughly. Use your phone to take clear photos or videos of the following:
Additionally, collect contact information from witnesses, including their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Eyewitness statements can provide valuable support for your version of events.
Notify law enforcement and ensure that an officer arrives to document the accident. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be critical in determining fault and liability. Be honest and factual when speaking to the officer, but avoid speculating about fault or admitting blame. Request a copy of the report or the report number so that your attorney can access it later.
If the driver involved in the accident remains at the scene, exchange contact and insurance information. This should include the driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance policy details. Take note of the make, model, and license plate of their vehicle. If the driver refuses to cooperate, document as much information as you can and provide it to the police.
After the accident, you may be contacted by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. It’s important to avoid discussing fault or making any statements about the accident without consulting a lawyer first. Insurance adjusters often seek to minimize payouts by using your statements against you or pressuring you into accepting a low settlement offer. Politely decline to provide detailed information until you’ve spoken to an attorney.
Keep all physical evidence from the accident, including your damaged bicycle, helmet, and clothing. These items can provide important insights into the severity of the collision and the force of impact. Additionally, retain any medical bills, receipts for bike repairs, or other expenses related to the accident, as these will be necessary for calculating damages.
One of the most important steps you can take after a bicycle accident is contacting an experienced bicycle accident lawyer. A lawyer will evaluate your case, gather additional evidence, and handle communication with insurance companies on your behalf. They will ensure your rights are protected, negotiate for fair compensation, and, if necessary, represent you in court.
By consulting a lawyer early in the process, you can avoid common mistakes and build a strong foundation for your claim. At Torgenson Law, we guide you through every step of the legal process, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
At Torgenson Law, we are passionate about advocating for injured cyclists. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges faced by bicyclists and works tirelessly to protect their rights. From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t face the aftermath alone. Call us today at 602-726-0747 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. You won’t pay a dime unless we win your case. Let Torgenson Law help you navigate the legal process and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
