Alabama Bicycle Accident Attorneys

Pursuing Justice for Bike Crash Victims

At Cunningham Bounds, we are dedicated to helping injured victims and families who have lost loved ones in bicycle accidents. If you or your loved one was harmed in a preventable bike crash as a result of someone else's negligence, we encourage you to learn more about your rights and how our firm can help.

Contact Cunningham Bounds today at (251) 299-0101 or send us a message online to request a free consultation with our bicycle accident lawyers in Alabama.

Alabama Bicycle Laws

Under Alabama law, bicycles are treated as vehicles. Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and must obey all traffic signals, signs, and lane markings. However, there are also specific rules designed to protect bicyclists, including:

• Right to the Road: Bicyclists may ride on most public roads, except where prohibited (such as interstates).
• Position on the Roadway: Cyclists should ride as far to the right as practicable, except when turning left or avoiding hazards.
• Passing Requirements: Alabama’s three-foot passing law requires motorists to maintain at least three feet of space when overtaking a bicycle.
• Helmet Laws: Riders under age 16 must wear a properly fitted helmet. While not legally required for adults, helmets are highly recommended for safety.
• Lighting and Equipment: Bicycles ridden at night must have a white front light and a red rear reflector or light visible from at least 500 feet.

When motorists violate these laws—by speeding, passing too closely, or failing to yield—they can be held liable for resulting injuries.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

The sad truth is that many bicycle accidents are caused by negligence.

Here are some common causes of bike accidents resulting from negligence:

• Driver inattention or distraction: Motor vehicle drivers who are distracted by texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging in other activities while driving may fail to notice cyclists sharing the road, leading to collisions. Inattention to the road and failure to yield to cyclists at intersections or when making turns can result in serious accidents.
• Failure to yield right of way: Motorists may fail to yield the right of way to cyclists at intersections, crosswalks, or when merging into bicycle lanes. This failure to yield can lead to collisions when cyclists have the right of way or are traveling in designated bike lanes.
• Unsafe passing: Drivers overtaking cyclists without providing a safe passing distance or attempting to pass in unsafe conditions, such as narrow roads or blind curves, can cause accidents. Failure to leave sufficient space between the vehicle and the cyclist increases the risk of sideswiping or forcing the cyclist off the road.
• Opening car doors: "Dooring" occurs when a motorist or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, resulting in a collision. This often happens when drivers or passengers exit parked vehicles without checking for approaching cyclists in bike lanes or on the road.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver's ability to react to unexpected situations, including the presence of cyclists on the road. Speeding motorists may have difficulty stopping in time to avoid collisions with cyclists, especially at intersections or in congested urban areas.
• Driving under the influence: Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver's judgment, coordination, and reaction time. Drunk or drugged drivers may fail to see cyclists, misjudge distances, or engage in reckless behaviors that increase the risk of accidents.
• Ignoring traffic signals and signs: Motorists who disregard traffic signals, stop signs, or other road signs may cause accidents involving cyclists. Failure to stop at red lights, yield signs, or pedestrian crosswalks can result in collisions with cyclists lawfully proceeding through intersections.
• Poor road conditions: Negligence on the part of government entities responsible for road maintenance can contribute to bicycle accidents. Poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, obscured bike lanes, potholes, debris, and uneven pavement pose hazards to cyclists and increase the risk of accidents.
• Aggressive driving behavior: Aggressive or hostile behavior by motorists, such as tailgating, honking, or making sudden lane changes, can intimidate cyclists and create dangerous situations on the road. Aggressive driving behaviors may escalate into confrontations or lead to reckless maneuvers that endanger cyclists.

Types of Injuries Sustained in Bicycle Accidents

When a cyclist is involved in a collision with a motor vehicle, he or she may be at risk of suffering a wide range of catastrophic injuries, including:

• Head injuries: Head injuries are among the most serious types of injuries that can result from a bicycle accident. Even with a helmet on, a cyclist can suffer a traumatic brain injury in a collision with a motor vehicle.
• Spinal cord injuries: A cyclist may suffer a spinal cord injury in a bicycle accident, which could result in temporary or permanent paralysis, depending on the severity of the injury.
• Broken bones: Broken bones are another common injury sustained in a bicycle accident. Depending on the force of the impact and the type of accident, a cyclist may suffer multiple broken bones in the accident.
• Back injuries: A cyclist may suffer a back injury in a collision with a motor vehicle, even if he or she does not suffer a spinal cord injury. Back injuries can be extremely painful and may require surgery and other extensive medical treatment.
• Road rash: Road rash is a type of friction burn that occurs when a cyclist’s skin scrapes against the pavement during an accident. In some cases, road rash can be extremely severe, leading to amputation, disfigurement, and nerve damage.
• Internal injuries: A cyclist may suffer internal injuries in a collision with a motor vehicle. Internal bleeding and organ damage can be life-threatening and may require emergency medical treatment.

Compensation from a Bike Accident Claim

After a serious bicycle accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation under Alabama law. At Cunningham Bounds, we carefully calculate every aspect of your damages to ensure you receive the maximum recovery available.

Potential compensation can include:

• Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and ongoing care.
• Lost wages: Income you’ve lost due to your injuries and future earning potential if you’re unable to return to work.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for your bicycle and other damaged personal property.
• Punitive damages: In cases involving reckless or egregious conduct—such as drunk driving—punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer.

Because Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, even a small degree of fault on the cyclist’s part can impact recovery. This makes it crucial to have an experienced Alabama bicycle accident attorney who knows how to protect your rights and counter defense arguments effectively.

Bicycle Accident FAQs

What should I do after a bicycle accident in Alabama?

Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Then, report the accident to the police, collect witness contact information, take photos of the scene and your injuries, and contact an experienced attorney before speaking with the driver’s insurance company.

How long do I have to file a claim?

In Alabama, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this period may forfeit your right to compensation.

Can I still recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes, but the defense may argue that your injuries were worsened by not wearing one. A skilled attorney can help counter these claims and focus the case on the driver’s negligence.

How much is my bicycle accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on the extent of your injuries, medical costs, lost income, and the impact on your life. Cunningham Bounds will thoroughly evaluate your situation and pursue full compensation for all damages.

Do I need a lawyer for my bicycle accident claim?

Absolutely. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame onto cyclists. Having an experienced Alabama bicycle accident attorney ensures your rights are protected and your case is built on solid legal and factual grounds.

How Cunningham Bounds Can Help You

At Cunningham Bounds, we know that bicycle accident cases can be complicated. We also know that the outcome of your case could have a significant impact on your future. That’s why we are committed to helping you fight for the maximum compensation you are owed. Our Alabama bicycle accident lawyers have successfully recovered billions on behalf of our clients, and we are prepared to fight for you.

When you choose Cunningham Bounds, you can rest assured that your case will be in good hands. We have a reputation for excellence, and we are known for our ability to successfully litigate even the most complex personal injury cases. Our firm has been fighting for the rights of the injured since 1958, and we are prepared to put our extensive experience to work for you.

Call Cunningham Bounds at (251) 299-0101 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with an experienced bicycle accident attorney in Alabama.