You Deserve Justice After a Bicycle Accident in South Carolina
Bicycle accidents can be devastating, leaving victims with serious injuries, financial stress, and emotional trauma. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you need a dedicated legal team on your side. At Christmas Injury Lawyers, we fight for cyclists who have been harmed by reckless drivers, dangerous road conditions, and negligent parties.
Our firm is built on trial experience and a relentless pursuit of justice. Unlike other law firms that settle cases quickly, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve. The insurance companies will try to minimize or deny your claim—we won’t let them. Let us level the playing field and fight for your rights today.
Why You Need a South Carolina Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Bicycle accident claims can be complicated, especially when insurance companies try to place blame on the injured cyclist. Without legal representation, you may be pressured into accepting a low settlement or, worse, denied compensation altogether.
A skilled bicycle accident lawyer understands South Carolina’s traffic laws and knows how to gather the right evidence to prove negligence. By hiring Christmas Injury Lawyers, you gain a legal team that is committed to maximizing your financial recovery. We will handle the insurance companies, investigate your case, and take legal action to ensure you get the justice you deserve.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in South Carolina
Bicycle accidents happen for many reasons, but most are caused by negligence. Understanding the common causes can help cyclists and drivers alike prevent future crashes.
Driver Negligence
Driver error is one of the leading causes of bicycle accidents. Many drivers fail to share the road properly, putting cyclists in danger.
- Distracted driving – Texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting GPS can take a driver’s attention away from the road. A single moment of distraction can lead to a devastating collision.
- Speeding and reckless driving – Drivers who exceed speed limits or drive aggressively increase the likelihood of hitting a cyclist, especially at intersections and crosswalks.
- Failure to yield – Many drivers fail to yield to cyclists when making turns or entering intersections. This can result in serious accidents that leave cyclists with life-altering injuries.
Roadway Hazards
Poor road conditions pose a serious risk to cyclists. Unlike cars, bicycles lack the protection needed to withstand sudden impacts.
- Potholes and debris – Uneven road surfaces, loose gravel, and scattered debris can cause cyclists to lose control and crash.
- Lack of designated bike lanes – Some areas lack proper infrastructure to support cyclists, forcing them to ride alongside high-speed traffic.
- Poor lighting and visibility – Inadequate street lighting and obstructed bike lanes make it difficult for cyclists to see potential dangers and for drivers to see cyclists.
Bicycle Defects
Defective bicycle parts can also lead to serious accidents. If a manufacturing or design flaw causes a crash, the bicycle manufacturer may be held liable.
- Brake failure – Faulty brakes can prevent a cyclist from stopping in time to avoid an accident.
- Tire blowouts – Defective tires can suddenly burst, causing the cyclist to lose control and crash.
- Frame defects – Weak or poorly designed frames may break under stress, leading to catastrophic injuries.
South Carolina Bicycle Laws: What You Need to Know
South Carolina law recognizes bicycles as vehicles, meaning cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. Understanding these laws can help protect your rights after an accident.
Bicyclists are legally allowed to ride on most roads, but they must follow traffic signals, ride with the flow of traffic, and use hand signals when turning. While helmets are not legally required for adult cyclists, wearing one can greatly reduce the risk of serious head injuries.
Drivers are required to give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing and must yield the right of way when necessary. Unfortunately, many motorists fail to follow these rules, putting cyclists at risk. If a driver violated these laws and caused your accident, you have the right to pursue compensation.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
A bicycle accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal case.
1. Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately obvious. A medical evaluation also provides documentation that can support your claim.
2. Report the Accident
Call the police and ensure an accident report is filed. This report can serve as key evidence when proving fault and holding the responsible party accountable.
3. Gather Evidence
If you’re able to, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Get the contact information of witnesses, as their statements may help strengthen your case.
4. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Alone
Insurance companies often try to get victims to admit fault or accept lowball settlements. Let your attorney handle all communication to ensure your rights are protected.
5. Contact a South Carolina Bicycle Accident Attorney
The sooner you have legal representation, the stronger your case will be. An experienced attorney will fight for the compensation you deserve and handle all legal aspects of your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, waiting too long to file can weaken your case. It’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
South Carolina follows a comparative negligence system, meaning you can still recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your level of responsibility.
Will my case go to trial?
Most bicycle accident claims are settled outside of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial and fight for the justice you deserve.
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?
At Christmas Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. There are no hidden fees—our goal is to make legal representation accessible to injury victims.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
If the driver who caused your accident is uninsured or underinsured, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. An attorney can help you explore all available options.
Contact a South Carolina Bicycle Accident Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, you don’t have to face this alone. The insurance companies have teams working against you—let Christmas Injury Lawyers fight for you.
Call us today at (843) 380-4112 or click ‘Contact Us’ to schedule your free consultation. We are committed to helping you get the medical treatment and financial recovery you deserve. Injury cases are all we do, and we will fight tirelessly for you.
