Jackson, MS Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Have you been involved in a bicycle collision while riding in Jackson, Mississippi? Unfortunately, this is an all-too-common occurrence. Cyclists have the right to share the streets of Jackson. Unfortunately, drivers and pedestrians don’t always remember to watch for bicycles.
If you were injured in a bicycle accident caused by someone else, you may have the right to financial compensation. Our experienced Jackson, Mississippi, bicycle accident lawyers at Giddens Law Firm, may be able to help. Contact us at 601-355-2022 for a free consultation.
Why Choose a Local Jackson, MS Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
Jackson’s unique infrastructure, including dedicated bike lanes, shared roadways, and potential hazards like uneven pavement or inadequate signage, presents a distinct set of challenges for cyclists. A lawyer well-versed in the city’s cycling landscape possesses a significant advantage. Their familiarity with local traffic patterns, accident-prone areas, and the specific regulations about bicycle safety strengthens their ability to investigate the cause of the accident and identify any contributing factors specific to Jackson’s environment.
Beyond legal expertise, Jackson-based bicycle accident lawyers often cultivate strong relationships with local accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals familiar with cyclist injuries, and other experts who can provide invaluable insights into your case. This network of local professionals allows for a comprehensive investigation, ensuring all critical details specific to the accident scene and the nature of your injuries are specifically documented.
The aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. Our Jackson bicycle accident lawyer can provide the personal attention that’s so important during this challenging time. Their proximity allows for frequent consultations, ensuring you are informed of the case’s progress and clearly understand the legal strategies employed.
What Mississippi Laws Protect Jackson, MS Cyclists?
Like the rest of Mississippi, Jackson is governed by the state’s bicycle laws. In 2010, legislators in the state passed the John Paul Frerer Bicycle Safety Act. This Act contains many laws, including:
- Bicyclists have the right to use the roads and highways in Mississippi, except interstate highways.
- Drivers must leave a safe distance of no less than three feet between their vehicle and a bicycle.
- It is illegal to harass cyclists or throw objects at them.
- Drivers must never block a bicycle lane with their vehicle.
- Drivers must look to ensure the way is clear of bicycles before they open the door of their vehicle.
Mississippi law also requires drivers to stay at the scene of any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage and render aid.
If your case requires litigation, a Jackson-based lawyer understands the nuances of the local court system and the legal precedents established within Hinds County. This familiarity allows them to effectively present your case before judges and juries who may be more attuned to the specific circumstances surrounding bicycle accidents within Jackson’s jurisdiction.
Jackson’s growing network of bike lanes and dedicated cycling paths, while promoting a more sustainable mode of transportation, also introduces potential points of conflict between cyclists and motorists. A local lawyer will be well-equipped to address these unique geographic concerns, analyzing factors such as lane markings, traffic light synchronization, and adherence to designated cycling areas. This in-depth understanding can be instrumental in determining fault and securing the compensation you deserve.
What Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Jackson, Mississippi?
Jackson, Mississippi, with its growing network of dedicated bike lanes and increasing focus on sustainability, presents a promising environment for cycling. However, this evolving landscape also introduces potential conflicts between cyclists and motorists, leading to a concerning number of bicycle accidents. Understanding the root causes of these collisions is crucial for promoting rider safety and fostering a culture of shared responsibility on the roads.
Infrastructural Challenges:
- Incomplete or Inadequate Bike Lanes: Jackson’s commitment to cycling infrastructure is commendable. However, the current network faces limitations. Many bike lanes are either incomplete, abruptly ending, or poorly demarcated, forcing cyclists to share lanes with moving traffic, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
- Uneven Road Surfaces: Jackson struggles with cracked pavement, potholes, and uneven road surfaces. These imperfections constantly threaten cyclists, potentially causing sudden loss of control and increasing the likelihood of collisions, especially when navigating alongside parked cars or making sharp turns.
- Traffic Signal Discrepancies: Traffic signals that are not easily visible from a cyclist’s perspective, particularly at intersections, can lead to misunderstandings and dangerous situations. This is further compounded by a lack of dedicated turn lanes or unclear markings, creating confusion for drivers and riders.
Driver Negligence:
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving due to texting, using navigation apps, or talking on the phone remains a prevalent concern across the nation, and Jackson is no exception. This lack of focus significantly hinders drivers’ ability to perceive and react to cyclists sharing the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Failure to Yield: Disregarding traffic regulations, particularly at intersections and crosswalks, is a leading cause of bicycle accidents in Jackson. Drivers turning right often fail to yield to cyclists proceeding straight, resulting in devastating collisions.
- Speeding and Aggressive Driving: Exceeding the speed limit or engaging in aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating significantly reduces reaction time and increases the severity of an accident in the event of a collision with a cyclist.
Cyclist Errors:
- Riding Under the Influence: Operating a bicycle while intoxicated significantly impairs judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Ignoring Traffic Signals: Disregarding stop signs, red lights, or failing to yield the right of way can lead to cyclists colliding with vehicles with the legal right of passage.
- Riding at Night Without Proper Lighting: Cyclists become virtually invisible to drivers during nighttime hours if they lack proper reflective gear and front and rear lights.
Unique Considerations in Jackson:
- Shared Roadways: Jackson often relies on shared roadways. This necessitates a heightened awareness and mutual respect between drivers and cyclists to avoid potential conflicts.
- Cultural Factors: Jackson’s unique blend of urban and rural environments might lead to a less developed cycling culture than coastal cities. Promoting cycling safety education and encouraging responsible driving habits are crucial.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Bike Accident in Jackson, MS?
Many people believe that the at-fault party is usually the driver when there’s a bike accident in Mississippi. And while that is usually the case for lawyers, additional parties may be responsible for the accident. Even the cyclists themselves may be partially to blame.
For example, if you cut off a car that could not stop in time in Mississippi, you may be found 25% at fault for the crash. If your settlement claim is over $150,000, you would see it reduced to $125,000 since you were found partially at fault. This is called pure comparative fault.
That’s why if you were found partially at fault for a bicycle accident, you must speak with a bicycle injury attorney immediately to learn the options available for your bicycle accident claim.
What Compensation Is Available Following a Bicycle Accident?
The injured party may be eligible for economic and non-economic damages following a bicycle accident.
Economic damages are intended to compensate you for any financial losses incurred due to your accident. This includes, but is not limited to, medical expenses, property damage, wage loss, and loss of potential earning capacity.
Non-economic damages are more subjective because they are intended to compensate for non-monetary losses. The most prevalent illustration is agony and suffering. There is no monetary value that can be assigned to the frustration and agony you have experienced as a result of your injuries. This is what suffering and pain are endeavoring to accomplish. Loss of enjoyment, loss of companionship, and mental anguish are additional examples of damages.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Jackson?
Fortunately, hiring a lawyer will not cost you anything upfront. Most personal injury attorneys, including Giddens Law Firm, handle cases on a contingency fee basis. When you win a settlement or an award, your attorney will take a percentage as payment. If your claim is unsuccessful, however, you owe no fee.
For over two decades, our Jackson bicycle accident attorney at Giddens Law Firm has been helping bicycle accident victims throughout Jackson, MS. With a thorough investigation, we’ll learn who is responsible for your accident and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to make sure you get the full amount of damages you may have suffered.
With years of personal injury experience, a successful track record, and a wealth of resources available, personal injury lawyer John Giddens is ready to take on the insurance company. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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Injuries from an accident can lead to difficult hurdles and challenges you are unprepared to overcome alone. You’ll face a huge financial debt and may be unable to work for a long time. Chances are the insurance company will not give you a settlement covering your expenses. You may feel overwhelmed and stressed. What can you do to get the compensation needed to recover? Call our experienced personal injury attorneys today.
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