Bicycle Accident

Las Vegas Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Representing victims of bike crashes and wrecks in Vegas

Bicycling is an excellent way to get around the streets of Las Vegas. Cyclists save on fuel, don’t have to pay for parking, and get a little exercise. Many people who move to central Las Vegas rely on public transportation, walking, or bicycling instead of personal vehicles. It’s one of the benefits of living in a big city, but it can also be one of the pitfalls. Bicyclists face serious risks when they hit the roads of Clark County. Aggressive drivers, lack of bicycle lanes, and busy intersections can all add up to tragedies.

Sean Claggett, the founding partner of Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers, is an avid cyclist and knows both the fun and dangers of riding around Las Vegas. We understand the devastating nature of bicycle accident injuries and we’ve had the honor of representing many cyclists and their family members. As the medical bills and missed days at work pile up, you might not know your legal rights. This is where a trustworthy law firm can step in. Our Las Vegas accident lawyers listen carefully to your story and guide you through your potential legal options. Talk to us today to take the first steps you need to move forward.

Areas of Focus

Client Testimonial

“I got into a major accident and hired Claggett & Sykes. The team held my hand through the entire process . They explained everything step-by-step in normal terms not legal verbiage. I felt that my health and recovery were their number one concern and I was not just a case. They took all the stress and fear out of the situation for me so I can focus on my recovery. I would recommend them one million times over.” – Rey N.

FAQ-Photo

Quick Questions

What are the most common injuries suffered in bike accidents?

Bicycle accidents are often severe for the cyclist, as they don’t have the protections enjoyed by passenger vehicle occupants. In fact, they’re often only protected from injuries by helmets and their clothing – and some have even less protection than that. In a collision with a motor vehicle, a bicyclist can suffer many different injuries, such as:

  • Internal injuries
  • Permanently disabling injuries
  • Scarring and disfigurement
  • Dislocations and fractures
  • Soft tissue injuries

Injuries resulting from a bicycle crash in Las Vegas can cost the rider thousands of dollars in medical care alone. Even a minor accident can come with hospital bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers, we can help you with the claims process after you or a loved one suffered injuries in a preventable bicycle accident.

When are bicycle accidents most likely to occur?

The NHTSA reports 846 cyclists died in traffic crashes in 2019. Nevada accounted for 2.6 percent of these fatalities. And, Las Vegas was once named one of the most dangerous cities for cyclists. The NHTSA also reports that bicycle accidents are most common in urban areas and between the hours of 6:00pm and 9:00pm.

Many motorists do not respect cyclists and do not pay attention to cyclists. Most do not follow the rules of the road that protect cyclists, like Nevada’s “three-foot rule” in Las Vegas, which requires motor vehicle drivers to allow for no less than three feet of room behind a cyclist in front.

What are the most common causes of bicycle accidents?

A large percentage – 30 percent, to be exact – of bicycle crashes involve a collision with a car. Other common reasons these accidents occur include:

The Las Vegas attorneys at Claggett & Sykes investigate your case in detail, obtaining all the necessary evidence to determine exactly who or what caused your accident and resulting injuries.

Who is liable for my injuries after a Las Vegas bike accident?

When a bicycle accident occurs due to a motorist not following the rules of the road, the motorist is responsible for the resulting injuries. When we take your case, we work to prove that the defendant owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and directly caused your losses.

Even when the motorist is at fault, it is common for insurance companies to point the finger at the bicyclist. Most of the time this is just a negotiation tactic. But, even if some blame can be placed on the cyclist, the cyclist may still pursue a claim in Nevada, as Nevada follows a comparative negligence law. This means the fault of the cyclist is compared to the fault of the motorist and any monetary verdict at trial for the cyclist is reduced by the percentage of fault of the cyclist—so long as the cyclist was found to be less at fault than the motorist. As your attorneys, our job is to show that you were not at fault, or much less at fault, than the defendant.

What should I do if I’m in a bicycle accident?

Bicycle accidents, especially when cars are involved, can cause serious or even life-threatening injuries. If you’re involved in a crash or collision while out on your bike, call 911 immediately for assistance if you are able. If you are driving and get into an accident with a bicyclist, call 911 as well to report the incident. Anyone who suffers serious injuries in a bicycle accident should seek prompt medical attention before anything else.

Even if you believe your injuries are mild, any delay in seeking medical care could cast doubt on a future lawsuit or insurance claim. It’s also possible for your condition to worsen if you do not seek immediate care, even if symptoms aren’t immediately noticeable. The three parties you want to contact after a bicycle accident, in order, are the police, your doctor, and your attorney. Provide a statement to the police who respond to the accident scene and then seek medical attention. Then, consult with a Las Vegas bicycle accident attorney before talking to any insurance companies, and never agree to any insurance settlement until your attorney has the opportunity to review it.

What are the Las Vegas bicycle laws?

Across the state, bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. When both motorists and cyclists follow traffic laws, everyone is safer. Some of these laws include the following:

  • Cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic, as close to the right-hand side of the lane, or in a dedicated bike lane, as possible.
  • Bicyclists may ride two abreast with other bicycles, but may not ride next to cars.
  • When passing a bicyclist, motorists must move into an adjacent lane to the left if possible. It not possible, the motorist must leave a distance of at least three feetat all times. Safe passing is the responsibility of the motorist.
  • Motorists must yield to bicyclists at intersections when appropriate, as they would for other vehicles.
  • Learn more about bicycle laws in Nevada here.

What damages can I recover in a Las Vegas bike accident injury case?

While nothing can take back your pain and losses from your bike accident, bringing an insurance or personal injury claim against the at-fault party can lead to results allowing you and your family to move forward. The Las Vegas attorneys at Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers can help recover what you need to pay your bills and ensure your family’s financial stability while you heal from your injuries.

We work to secure damages for your losses, including:

  • Medical bills (past and future)
  • Ongoing care, physical therapy or rehabilitation
  • Bicycle repairs or replacement
  • Loss of income
  • Physical pain and emotional suffering
  • Permanent injuries or scars
  • Punitive damages

Is there a bicycle accident attorney near me?

Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers is located on Meadows Lane at Valley View and 95 in Las Vegas, near Springs Preserve and Meadows Mall. You can meet with us in our offices or, if it’s more convenient, via phone or video call. We’re happy to provide flexibility for our clients – just ask.

Respected bicycle accident lawyers serving Las Vegas

Let Claggett & Sykes help you better understand your Las Vegas bicycle accident case. We work to recover damages for your injuries and losses, and handle everything for you – from start to finish. Let our trial lawyers get to work for you. Start your case with a free consultation. Call 702-333-7777 or fill out our contact form today.