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Bicycle Accidents

If you've been seriously hurt in a bicycle crash due to someone else's negligence, it is important to know that you don't have to face this challenging road alone.

At Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC, our experienced bicycle accident attorneys are passionate about fighting for the rights of injured cyclists in Seattle and throughout Washington state. Let us shoulder the legal burdens for you during this difficult time so you can focus on rebuilding your life after a serious injury accident.

BikeAccident

Why Choose Our Seattle Bicycle Accident Lawyers?

Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC has represented injured bicyclists in Seattle and throughout the state of Washington since 1963. We understand cyclists' vulnerability when motorists don’t pay attention, and we have a long track record of helping injured bicyclists.

Our Past Success

substantial settlement for the husband and family of a bicyclist who lost her life when a truck cut a corner near a freeway ramp in Gig Harbor, hitting her and crushing her to death on the median. The insurance companies for those responsible tried to hide behind a corporate and independent contractor “shell game” to avoid taking responsibility. Swanson Gardner Meyers Cohon PLLC revealed this scheme and obtained a substantial settlement for the cyclist's family.

financial settlement for a young wife and mother who was seriously injured while riding her bicycle in Bellevue. The defendant negligently turned in front of our client, causing the collision, and claimed our client was “speeding” on her bicycle. Analysis of GPS data on the bicycle’s computer showed otherwise, allowing us to negotiate a financial settlement on her behalf.

Most Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Did you know that Seattle consistently ranks among the top 10 cities for bicycle commuting, with around 4% of residents biking to work? However, the city also sees an average of 280 bicycle crashes per year, many resulting in serious injuries.

Washington state averages more than 1,000 bicycle accidents annually, with over half involving collisions with motor vehicles. Approximately 90% result in cyclist injury or death.

Cyclists are incredibly vulnerable out there on the roads. Unlike motorists with sturdy steel vehicles, you have no protection from the immense forces involved in a collision. Even when you diligently follow all traffic laws and safety best practices, the carelessness of others can still lead to life-altering injuries in a split second.

Some of the most common injuries we see in bicycle accident cases include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)

  • Spinal cord damage and paralysis

  • Broken bones and fractures

  • Severe road rash and lacerations

  • Internal organ damage

  • Soft tissue injuries

Recovering from injuries like these is often an excruciating, lengthy process filled with surgeries, grueling rehab, chronic pain, and astronomical medical bills. Many bicycle accident victims find themselves unable to work or engage in the activities they once loved. The physical, emotional, and financial toll can be utterly devastating.

You didn't ask for any of this. You were simply trying to enjoy a bike ride or commute to work when someone else's poor choices upended your world. Now, you need significant resources to put your life back together and face an uncertain future. That's where we come in.

Holding Negligent Parties Accountable For Decades

After a serious bike crash, you may be dealing with a whirlwind of doctor's appointments, insurance calls, and mounting bills. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps. But one thing is clear: you shouldn't have to bear the burden of someone else's reckless actions.

Under Washington law, any individual or entity whose negligence contributes to a bicycle accident can be held liable for the resulting damages. This may include:

  • Drivers who hit cyclists while distracted, intoxicated, speeding, or violating traffic laws

  • Commercial trucking and delivery companies whose drivers cause wrecks

  • Vehicle manufacturers, in cases of defective cars, trucks, or bikes

  • Government entities responsible for poorly designed or maintained roads

  • Pedestrians who dart out into bike lanes

Determining all liable parties and proving how their actions harmed you is not easy, especially when you're trying to focus on healing. Let us handle the legal aspects for you. Our skilled Seattle bicycle accident attorneys will immediately launch an in-depth investigation to secure vital evidence like traffic cam footage, witness statements, driver cell phone records, and more. We often partner with accident reconstruction, engineering, and medical experts to build the strongest possible case.

Defendants and their insurers may try to point fingers and dodge accountability, but we won't let them off the hook without a fight. Our tenacious litigators have gone up against some of the biggest insurance companies, corporations, and government entities out there—and won. While we always aim to resolve cases efficiently through negotiation, we won't hesitate to take your case to trial if needed to secure the full, fair compensation you deserve.

Fighting for the Compensation You Deserve After a Seattle Bike Crash

Bicycle accident injuries can impact practically every facet of your life. From the moment you're hurt, the bills start piling up fast. However, those short-term expenses are often just the tip of the iceberg compared to the long-term losses you may suffer.

Depending on the extent of your injuries, age, line of work, and other factors, a bicycle crash may affect your ability to earn a living and support your family for months, years, or even permanently. You may require ongoing medical care, assistive devices, home modifications, and other costly accommodations. The accident may also inflict profound emotional distress and diminished quality of life.

Damages We Fight To Recover

Our goal is to secure maximum compensation for the full spectrum of your losses, including:

  • Past, current, and future medical expenses

  • Lost wages and reduced earning potential

  • Pain and suffering

  • Emotional distress

  • Disability and disfigurement

  • Loss of enjoyment of life

  • Property damage

  • Out-of-pocket costs

While no amount of money can turn back time and undo your injuries, a fair settlement or verdict can provide vital support and stability as you navigate the challenging road ahead. It can also deliver a much-needed sense of justice and accountability.

Our team is committed to shouldering the legal burdens for you. We'll handle all the paperwork, evidence-gathering, negotiations, and court appearances so you can stay focused on healing. With us in your corner, you'll have the support and advocacy you need every step of the way.

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Nursing Home Negligence

Contact Our Seattle Bicycle Accident Attorneys

If you're trying to pick up the pieces after a bicycle accident, our law firm is here to help. Taking prompt action is crucial since Washington law limits how long you have to file an injury claim. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your case and fighting for the justice you deserve. We offer free, no-obligation consultations, so you have nothing to lose by speaking with our team.

Riding your bicycle should be liberating—not life-shattering. Let us take on the legal burdens so you can focus on what matters most: your health, family, and future. Our Seattle bicycle accident attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and help you explore all your options. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation.

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