Bike accidents, particularly collisions with a vehicle, are especially hazardous. Compared to cars and trucks, bicycles lack the same protections in the event of an accident. Additionally, the sheer force of a vehicle collision is often too great for a bicycle to withstand. As a result, cyclists who collide with a car often suffer devastating injuries. These harms are even more pronounced when the victim is a child.
For example, a 15-year-old girl on a bicycle suffered injuries after a car accident in Sanford, Maine. The girl was riding her bicycle when a car struck her. When emergency personnel arrived at the scene, the girl was trapped under the car. She was transported to the hospital in critical condition. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
What Are the Top Causes of Maine Bicycle Accidents?
A bicycle accident may have several related causes. First, a driver may cause a bicycle accident by acting carelessly. For example, distracted driving and driving while intoxicated both impair a driver’s ability to focus on the road. When drivers take their attention away from the road ahead, they place themselves and everyone else at risk. Additionally, a governmental department may fail to maintain safe roads or bike lanes. Obstructions or defects on a road may directly lead to injuries, or they may force cyclists to use a car lane, increasing the risk of colliding with a vehicle. Finally, a bicycle accident may occur as a result of a product defect. Faulty tires or brakes may cause a cyclist to lose control of their bicycle, leading to a collision with a vehicle or another bicycle.
What Damages Are Available When a Minor Suffers a Bike Accident?
When a child suffers injuries from a bike accident, the child’s parents or guardians may be able to bring a lawsuit for negligence. When filing a suit, parents may seek compensatory damages for the child’s medical expenses resulting from the accident, along with future expenses if the child will require further medical care. In addition to physical injuries, parents can also seek compensation for emotional harm, often referred to as “pain and suffering.” Maine also allows parents of a minor to sue for the loss of the child’s services or earnings. Notably, Maine does not require two parents to sue under this law; one parent can sue alone. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand the routes to recovery for your child’s injuries.
Do You Need a Maine Bike Accident Attorney?
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries from a Maine bike accident, contact Peter Thompson & Associates to discuss your case. Our personal injury attorneys possess years of experience representing clients in Maine bike accidents, car crashes, pedestrian accidents, workers’ compensation, product liability, premises liability, nursing home neglect, and medical malpractice. The attorneys at our firm have the skills and expertise to fight for the compensation you need and deserve. To schedule a free initial consultation today, call us at 800-804-2004.