Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons, often due to
negligence by motorists or unsafe road conditions. The most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving – Motorists texting, eating, or engaging in other distractions.
- Failure to Yield – Drivers ignoring stop signs or right-of-way rules at intersections.
- Dooring Accidents – When a driver or passenger opens a car door into a cyclist’s path.
- Unsafe Passing – Vehicles failing to give cyclists enough space when overtaking.
- Poor Road Conditions – Potholes, debris, and lack of proper signage.
- Defective Bicycle Parts – Brake failures, tire blowouts, or faulty frames.
Missouri Bicycle Laws and Legal Rights of Cyclists
Missouri law recognizes
bicycles as vehicles, meaning cyclists have many of the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. Some key laws include:
- Three-Foot Passing Rule – Drivers must maintain at least three feet of distance when passing a cyclist.
- Use of Bike Lanes – Cyclists should use bike lanes when available but may ride on the road if needed for safety.
- Helmet Laws – While Missouri does not have a statewide helmet requirement, some municipalities enforce helmet laws for riders under 18.
- Traffic Signals and Stop Signs – Cyclists must obey all traffic signals and signage.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
If you’re involved in a bicycle accident in
Missouri, take the following steps to protect your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention – Even minor injuries should be documented.
- Call the Police – Request a police report to document the accident.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos of your injuries, bike damage, and the accident scene.
- Obtain Witness Statements – Collect contact information from bystanders.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Alone – Insurers may try to minimize your claim.
- Consult a Bicycle Accident Lawyer – Legal representation can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims
Injured cyclists may be eligible for compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses – Hospital bills, surgeries, and rehabilitation costs.
- Lost Wages – Compensation for time missed from work.
- Pain and Suffering – Emotional distress, PTSD, and long-term trauma.
- Property Damage – Repair or replacement of your bicycle and gear.
Notable Cases We Have Won
At
Monsees & Mayer, we have successfully handled bicycle accident and personal injury claims. Some of our case results include:
- $3,500,000 – Settlement for a shooting at a nightclub.
- $6,000,000 – Skid loader caused brain injury in St. Louis, MO.
- $5,200,000 – Compensation for improper pool markings leading to quadriplegia in Joplin, MO.
Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accident Claims in Missouri
In
Missouri, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including bicycle accidents, is
five years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline may prevent you from recovering compensation.
How a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
An experienced
bicycle accident lawyer can help with legal rights of cyclists:
- Investigate the Cause – Collect evidence, analyze accident reports, and interview witnesses.
- Determine Liability – Hold negligent drivers, government entities, or manufacturers accountable.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies – Fight for fair compensation on your behalf.
- Represent You in Court – Take legal action if a settlement isn’t reached.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a
bicycle accident, don’t face the legal process alone. At
Monsees & Mayer, we are committed to protecting cyclists,
contact us for a free consultation today.
