Who Could Be Liable for My Injures?

If the accident was with a vehicle:

Negligent truck, bus or automobile drivers may be responsible. We will file the lawsuit against them, but their insurance company would pay the claim.

This can also include what’s known as “motor vehicle harassment.” Some states have passed laws specifically prohibiting harassment of cyclists, making certain harassing behavior criminal. Harassment can take many forms: shouting, cursing, passing too closely, or throwing objects at a cyclist. If this behavior caused your injury, you may have a case against them.

If you were hurt because of a defective or recalled product, or negligent repair of your bike:

Repair shops that performed faulty repairs or retailers and manufactures of bad parts, accessories, or vehicles (including faulty helmets, pedals, brakes, wheels, etc.) may be responsible. 

If the accident was caused by unsafe conditions:

The city, county, or state that is responsible for maintaining roads and bike paths may be responsible. These governmental bodies could also be responsible if your accident was a result of improper upkeep of public property.

If the accident was caused by the negligent maintenance or upkeep of private property, the owner of that property will be responsible. This includes injuries and damage resulting from dog attacks. In these cases, the owners’ home insurance would pay the claim.