The Frightening Facts: Bicycle Accident Injuries and Deaths

Each year, cyclists across Washington State are injured or die in collisions. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) reports the number of fatalities has risen, with the highest number of deaths in almost a decade in a recently reported year revealing 18 cyclists lost their lives. The state DOT reports that in the same year, a staggering 571 cyclists sustained severe injuries.

After an accident, a cyclist may face the future with severe, life-altering injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, seeking compensation for all damages is urgent. Our experienced Tacoma bicycle accident lawyers at Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers stand ready to discuss how to help pursue justice and full compensation.

attorney across the table speaking to client

What Causes Bicycle Accidents?

Despite the frequent rain in Tacoma, bicycle accidents happen more often in dry weather, during daylight hours. Understanding the common causes can help you stay safe:

  • Driver negligence: Drivers failing to yield, speeding, distracted driving, or running red lights can all lead to collisions with cyclists.
  • Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, and uneven pavement can cause cyclists to lose control and crash.
  • Dooring accidents: These injury accidents occur when a driver or passenger opens a car door directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist.
  • Failure to see cyclists: Many drivers fail to observe cyclists, especially when turning or changing lanes, causing severe injuries or loss of life. 

Who is at Fault in a Bicycle Accident?

Determining fault in a bicycle accident is of ultimate concern when seeking damages. Our team of bicycle accident attorneys in Tacoma is committed to pursuing the maximum possible compensation based on the facts in the case. The first step is determining liability. The liable parties could include the following:

  • Motorists: Car, truck, SUV, or van drivers are often found to be liable in a serious bicycle accident. A driver may have been speeding, violated traffic laws, or did not operate the vehicle with caution when sharing the road with cyclists. Driving while texting, eating, grooming, or chatting with passengers takes attention off the road, putting cyclists at high risk of a serious or fatal collision. 
  • Governmental Agencies: If an accident is caused by poorly maintained roads that pose a danger to cyclists, a city or state agency may be liable. Potholes, incorrectly timed traffic lights, and unclear bike-lane markings could be factors in causing a collision. 
Banner media

Types of Bicycle Accident Injuries

A cyclist hit by a vehicle is at risk of sustaining catastrophic or fatal injuries. Some of the most common injuries in these collisions include the following:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
  • Broken Bones (Fractures)
  • Neck Injuries
  • Back Injuries
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
  • Elbow, Knee, Hip Injuries
  • Facial Injuries 
  • Severe Lacerations
  • Amputations
big river along mountain escape with boat docking

Bicyclists Ride with Higher Risk

A bike offers minimal protection; even a low-speed collision can result in fatal injuries. The smaller profile of a cyclist is more difficult for drivers to see. Without the safety of an enclosed vehicle, the cyclist sustains a direct impact and is thrown onto the roadway, at risk of a secondary impact from moving vehicles.

While cyclists may be unable to prevent an accident, specific actions can reduce risk:

  • Wear protective gear: A helmet protects the head and brain; additional gear like reflective clothing increases visibility.
  • Follow traffic laws: Obeying signals, using bike lanes when available, and signaling your turns can help prevent accidents. Cyclists are required to follow the same laws as vehicle operators.
  • Stay aware: Always remain alert to your surroundings and avoid distractions such as listening to music, phone conversations, or other activities. Drivers nearby may be distracted, so always cycle defensively.
  • Use lights and reflectors: Especially at night, ensure that your bike is equipped with front and rear lights and reflectors. Most cyclist fatalities occur between rush hour and sunset, according to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.

Trusted Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Tacoma

In a bicycle accident case, you need a law firm that will pour all its resources into seeking justice for the injured or the family in cases of fatal bicycle accidents. Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers has over 25 years of experience in personal injury cases; we’ve been the deciding factor in winning $100 million in settlements for our clients.

Your future well-being and financial security will reflect the litigation skills of your attorney, and we are proud to be known for legal excellence, both in negotiating the terms of a settlement and in court. Let Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.

Banner media
Contact us media
Logo media
Doctor credentials
Doctor credentials
Doctor credentials
Doctor credentials
Doctor credentials
Doctor credentials
Doctor credentials

$100,000,000 Total Settlements

Banner media

Client Reviews

Highly recommend! I was in a car accident in November of 2023 and my insurance didn’t do much to help me so I contacted Park Chenaur Law to see if I can get someone that will help me out. Paty and Natalya were working on my case and were very helpful and communicative throughout the whole case. Thank you guys again for ...

Bri

I was in a car accident and tried to deal with the other insurance company on my own. The person I was dealing with was very aggressive and not easy to work with. She offered me a settlement that was very low and didn't include much for my medical expenses. I reached out to a law firm and was lucky to be connected with Nataly...

Max Terterov

Lola is a great person/paralegal to work with. She helped me with my case few years back and she did a fantastic job. I recommended my husband to Park Chenaur because of the great service I got from this firm.

Suze

Not only did the team (multiple people- very hands on!) get me the maximum insurance settlement for a car accident I was in, but they went above and beyond to stay engaged and work for me. They helped me find effective, compassionate chiro care, and were helpful in discussing case details along the way. I highly recommend Pau...

Arianna S.

I use this firm for the first time on 2012 and over the years I had an excellent experience but, I have to say is thanks to Lola. She goes above and beyond, twice I had cases that they couldn't help me with, but she always takes her time to talk (at least an hour), she listen and finally always comes with something to help, i...

James G.

Kimberly was so reliable, honest and helped me with integrity.  I recommend to contact her to anyone who is looking for great help when you go through unexpected car accident.  I was really frustrated when the accident was happened.  Kimberly always took the time to answer any questions I might have, went throu...

Hye C.

This is my second time coming back to Park & Chenaur. I came back because Lola was an amazing Team member And unfortunately, she had gone to retirement. But reassured me that I would be Taken good care of and put in good hands with colleagues of Park & Chenaur Talia was one that I would communicate with more and I'm p...

B. Cruz

I’ve been incredibly pleased with the support and dedication from Komo Thiara and Marco Martinez as they work on my personal injury case. Even though my case is still ongoing, I’ve been impressed by their professionalism and commitment. Komo Thiara is attentive to every detail and has been proactive in keeping me ...

Jasmin T.

This is a great firm to work with. I’ve been working directly with Lola Serna and Mr. Kim. They’ve been working diligently on my case and keeping me up to speed each step along the way. Lola has been extremely communicative of the entire process. When I’ve mentioned to others that they are working on my case...

C. Rhzie

Lola and her team are incredible! Top notch law firm with a deep, rich knowledge of the system and how to best take care of their clients.

Preston D.

Gina Kim is a great attorney! She is very experienced and explained the process every step of the way. I was very pleased with the outcome of my case. I highly recommend her!!

Donna G.

After I had my auto collision, I reached out to Park Chenaur and Lola quickly reached out and immediately took my case. Since hiring the law firm, and working with Lola, I have been able to concentrate on my healing knowing that my claim is in good hands. Lola has been super responsive throughout this process which I apprecia...

Jacob L.

I have been so impressed with the level of care this group has provided in my auto accident case. Especially Lola, who on the first meeting made me feel at ease. She explained everything throughout the process and kept me informed every step of the way. The value of peice of mind is beyond anything I could have expected. I wo...

Trina P.

I got into a bad accident where I lost my car back in 2017, I was young, scared and anxious. I contacted Park Chenaur & Associates when I was offered $500 from the other driver’s car insurance…let’s just say that was a spit in the face compared to what I actually received thanks to their help. They took...

Chels

Park Chenaur Law Offices was great helping me navigate everything after a MVA in 2016. They were recommended to me several months after and I wish I had contacted them sooner!

They listened to my concerns, patiently explained next steps, figuratively held my hand through mediation, and helped calm me as I expressed my ...

인정

In the summer of 2022, I found myself in a stressful situation after a car accident.  Despite it not being my fault, dealing with insurance was intimidating.  A friend recommended Parks Chenaur & Associates LLP, and it turned out to be a lifesaver.  They not only guided me through the insurance process but ...

Hyuna J.

I highly recommend Park Chenaur for assisting me with my case. I was involved in an accident and Lola made the process very easy for me and my family.

She was very understanding, she listened to all our concerns. I can't say thank you enough.

Kristy C.

I cannot thank Kimberly and her team enough. Between two accidents that were very complex, Kimberly and her team helped me get settlements for both. I couldn’t have gotten through this without her dedicated work. I highly recommend using Kimberly and her team - I will be recommending them to anyone I personally know. I ...

Morgan G.

Senior Manager Yoon and her team took care of my two traffic accident cases and achieved satisfying results. Highly recommend this legal group.

Minwoo L.

I would like to thank Park Chenaur Lawyers for helping my Son with his injury claim. Lola has been very helpful and supportive in this process. It’s good to know that my Son is being treated well and we appreciate all the help! The Hutchinson family.

Tamara H.

Kimberly Yoon helped me resolve my car accident. She helped me a lot during difficult times. She was very accurate in her work and always responded. I think she is the best.

Yunmi L.

Angel Chenaur & Rick Park are very good  excellent lawyers because of unstoppable care and energy to win your case. They are a Team that are professional and  asure a thorough understanding of the processes  throughout the  wait for the results of your claim. They've been my lawyers for my claims and &...

Linda C.

I appreciate the phone call back first of all. The case taken was two years old. Something was gotten out of it. Appreciated, but I will Never understand how 40 percent of $15,000 leaves me with $4,600 and No explanation good enough Can be given Even with the so called breakdown. Make it make sense. But still I appreciate eve...

Annaray H.

Paula Burger is wonderful! She is a person I go to when I know things will get done. Her communication skills are excellent and anyone who works with her can expect nothing but the best.

Annette T.

A Case Manager Gina Kim, she was always kind and considerate when my wife and I had a car accident. Usually people panic when they have a car accident. And there are many cases where we don't know how to handle it. After this traffic accident, my family has learned a lot about how important experienced lawyers and experienced...

Jay
Logo media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (253) 523-2032.
Contact Us