Cyclist Accident Lawyers

Cycling in Ottawa is a great way to explore the city's parks and trails. Canada’s capital city has some of the best cycling opportunities in the country, with flat terrain and hundreds of kilometres of trails. From quiet rural roads to scenic riverfront pathways, Ottawa offers cyclists plenty of options for a leisurely ride or an adventurous excursion. The Rideau Canal Skateway provides a scenic 7.8 km long route for cycling during warm weather months, while Gatineau Park offers well-maintained trails that can accommodate all skill levels. With its wide array of trails, Ottawa is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to get out and explore on two wheels.

It’s no surprise that Ottawa's outdoor cycling opportunities have been linked to improved mental health and wellbeing. Cycling is known to be one of life of the most beneficial physical activities due to its low impact on joints and muscles while also providing an intense cardiovascular workout.

Advice from a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Are you a cyclist in Ontario who has recently been injured in an accident? Are you looking for more information about bicycle accident laws and what to do if you are involved in one? If so, this blog is for you. At WVG Law Group we believe that cyclists should have access to resources and advice that can help them navigate the often complex legal process that comes with being involved in an accident.

The Right Hook

Right hooks occur when a driver is making illegal right turns around bicycle paths. It is common for drivers of automobiles to get into these kinds of collisions when they attempt to make a right turn onto the street. It may be a bike lane rider riding on a highway, bike lane, bike shunt, or bike path. The rider can't react quickly and sometimes drivers are not even telling their passengers they are going to leave. The right hook is a major cause of many cycling deaths and bicycle injuries in the Ottawa area.

Failure to provide One Meter of Space or to Use Bike Lanes

All cyclists need one-metre space in passing. The one-meter rule is an important safety guideline when it comes to cyclists and cars sharing the road. This rule states that drivers should leave at least one meter of space between their vehicle and a cyclist when passing them on a roadway. This extra space gives cyclists more room to maneuver in case of an unexpected event or change in the traffic situation.

This rule is widely enforced in many countries around the world, including Canada, where drivers can face fines for not leaving enough space for cyclists. In addition, some states have adopted a two-meter rule: drivers must now maintain two meters of space between their car and any cyclist on the road. For many cyclists, this additional safety measure provides an even greater sense of security while riding.

The Inattentive Drivers

Inattentive drivers are a major cause of cyclist collisions. Poorly paying attention to their surroundings can lead drivers to overlook cyclists on the road. This potentially deadly oversight can result in collisions between drivers and cyclists, leaving the cyclist with serious injuries or even death. Drivers must be aware of cyclists on the roads while they are driving and make sure they always have plenty of room when passing them. It is also beneficial for drivers to look into their rearview mirrors before making any turns or lane changes to ensure that no cyclists are behind them.

Poor Road Conditions

Poor road conditions can increase the likelihood of cycling accidents, as potholes and other obstacles can easily cause a cyclist to lose control and crash. Additionally, roads that are poorly lit or have insufficient signage can be hazardous for cyclists, making it more difficult to anticipate turns and other changes in the roadway. Poor visibility due to darkness or inclement weather can also contribute to higher risk of bicycle accidents. Unfortunately, many cyclists are unaware of these risks and may unknowingly travel on unsafe roads at their own peril.

Unfamiliarity with Cycling Rules

Unfamiliarity with cycling rules can lead to cyclist vs car accidents in a variety of ways. Cyclists who are new to the road or have limited experience may be unaware of their rights and responsibilities as cyclists, leading them to make mistakes or take risks that can endanger themselves and other road users.

For instance, novice cyclists may not know that they must obey traffic signals like stop signs and red lights, or may not understand when cars are allowed to turn left across their path. Such mistakes can lead to dangerous situations where cyclists unexpectedly encounter cars making a turn.

Not Yielding Right of Way

Cycling is becoming ever more popular, particularly in urban areas where cyclists are often the most efficient form of transportation. However, the combination of cars and cyclists on shared roads can be a dangerous one. When car drivers do not yield the right of way to cyclists, it can lead to cyclist vs car accidents.

This is especially true at intersections when cars don't give cyclists enough time to pass through an intersection before turning. In addition, failing to look for cyclists when merging onto a roadway or exiting a driveway can also increase the risk of accidents occurring injured cyclists.

Cyclists may also be put in danger when cars fail to maintain a safe passing distance or turn without properly checking their blind spot for any cyclists nearby. Ultimately, it is important that both drivers and cyclists follow traffic laws and use caution while sharing the road in order to avoid these types of accidents.

Disregard for Traffic Signals and Signs

When motorists ignore traffic signals and signs, it can cause a tragic outcome for cyclists. When drivers fail to obey the rules of the road, they put themselves and others in danger of serious injury or death. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable because they don’t have the protection of an enclosed vehicle.

For instance, if a driver runs a red light or stop sign, they may collide with a cyclist who had the right-of-way. The cyclist is likely to be thrown off their bike and suffer severe injuries from impact with the ground or other objects in their path. The same is true if a driver makes an illegal turn without checking for cyclists first.

Understanding How Cycling Crashes Occur and Building the Case

Bicycling is not an accident. The number of bicycles and pedestrians killed by motorists is increasing and more than a thousand are hitting them. Too often bicycle riders with serious injuries are incapable of collecting enough evidence to prove that they were negligent in the crash. Sorely trusting the police accident lawyers or family members, the public would be mistaken.

The Serious Injuries that Result From a Bike Accident

Bike injuries in a bike crash caused by being hit by a car can be incredibly serious and even deadly. Many bicyclists don’t have the protection of an enclosed vehicle, making them more vulnerable to injury if they are involved in an accident with a car. The most common injuries that occur when a cyclist is hit by a car include concussions, internal organ damage, traumatic brain injuries broken bones (such as femur fractures or collarbone fractures), spinal cord trauma, and head, neck, and facial injuries. Other less severe but still dangerous injuries include road rash, contusions, lacerations, abrasions, and whiplash.

What to do if you're in a Bike Accident

If you are in a bike accident, the first thing you should do is stop and check your condition. Make sure to assess your injuries and determine if they require medical attention. If they do, call 911 immediately. You should also document as much of the scene of the accident as possible by taking photos or videos. You should also make note of any witnesses who may have seen the accident happen. Once your physical health has been addressed, it is important to contact an experienced bicycle accident lawyer who can provide legal advice and assistance throughout the process.

Healing from Bike Crashes

Lawyers must take every step necessary in the right direction. They are here in the courtroom to help you get the correct medical treatment. A skilled bike injury attorney can help and assist you navigate the recovery process from traumatic head injury or spinal fracture to amputation. Depending on the accident, some of these injuries can require long-term medical treatment, including physical therapy and psychological counselling.

Accessing a Lawyer for the Cyclist

A trauma attorney will make sure that you have access to the available treatment. Then make it possible for you to have a correct benefit classification regardless of whether you have been affected in any way. The law has complex issues and needs knowledge, experience and the appropriate professional funding for success.

Accident Benefits for Cyclists in Ontario

Cycling is a popular form of transport across Ontario, but cyclists can sometimes face dangerous and unexpected situations on the roads. Fortunately, car insurance providers in Ontario typically offer accident benefits that are specifically designed to protect cyclists while they are on the road. These benefits include medical and rehabilitation coverage, as well as coverage for lost wages if an injury prevents the cyclist from being able to work. Additionally, these benefits also provide death and funeral expenses for cyclists who are killed in car accidents.

Suing the at-fault driver in a bike crash case

If you have been involved in a bike accident in Ontario that was caused by the fault of another driver, you may be able to bring a lawsuit against that driver. In order to do so, you must be able to prove that the other driver was negligent and caused your injuries. This can include demonstrating that the other driver violated any applicable traffic laws or regulations, such as failing to yield when turning or running a red light.

If you are successful in court, you may be entitled to receive damages for medical expenses, lost wages, disability costs, pain and suffering, and potentially more depending on the circumstances.

Enjoyable Cycling this Summer from WVG Law Group

At WVG Law Group, an Ottawa-based personal injury law firm, we understand how important cycling is to the well-being of individuals and the community. We want to remind all riders that summertime brings with it a host of wonderful outdoor activities, including biking. As you take to the roads on your bike, remember to stay safe and follow the rules of the road. Wear a helmet, obey traffic laws and keep your bike in good working order. Have a wonderful and safe summer!

More Resources for Cyclists:



1. Ontario Ministry of Transportation: https://www.ontario.ca/page/cycling-ontario

2. Bikelaw Canada: https://bikelawcanada.com/ontario-bicycle-laws/

3. Share the Road Cycling Coalition: https://sharetheroad.ca/resources/

4. Ontario By Bike Network: http://ontariobybike.ca/resources/

#BikeSafety #Accidents #BikeAwareness #CarCollisions #CyclistsRights