What Ohio Pedestrians and Bicyclists Need to Know

At Robenalt Law, we view pedestrians and bicyclists as having the right of way, and that most accidents between cars or trucks and pedestrians or cyclists will ultimately result in a finding of liability against the driver. Motorists always have to be on the lookout for pedestrians and cyclists. In accidents with vehicles, plain and simply, pedestrians and cyclists almost always win and get compensation for their injuries.

What Are the Most Common Situations in Which Pedestrian and Bicyclist Accidents Happen?

There are many reasons for pedestrians or bicyclists being struck by cars or trucks. Certain classes of people are especially vulnerable, including children, elderly persons, and disabled persons. Some of the common reasons or ways people are hit include:

• Inattention or distraction
• Speeding
• Intoxication or drunk driving
• Texting or talking on cell phone
• Not keeping up vehicle maintenance and repair
• Failing to heed traffic laws
• Reduced visibility
• Poor or hazardous road conditions, including slick or icy roads
• Dangerous or severe weather
• Jaywalking or illegal crossing

Car and truck drivers should be extra vigilant in making sure they are not endangering pedestrians or bicyclists. Pedestrians and bicyclists will not be able to move out of the way as quickly, and any resulting injuries can be serious, even fatal. Pedestrians and bicyclists should make sure they are obeying traffic laws and keeping a watch out for themselves and loved ones.

Common Pedestrian and Bicyclist Injuries

Pedestrians and bicyclists can suffer a wide range of injuries after being involved in a traffic accident. Because vehicles involved in traffic accidents strike pedestrians and bicyclists at high impact, injuries can be life-threatening and serious. Some of the kinds of injuries pedestrians and bicyclists may suffer include:

• Traumatic brain injury
• Broken or fractured bones
• Bruising
• Soft tissue damage
• Paralysis
• Impaired cognitive, motor, or speech functions
• Loss of limbs
• Internal injuries

Insurance Compensation in Ohio for Pedestrian and Bicyclist Injuries

Before a claim against insurance companies or against an at fault party involved in the accident, you should first understand the applicable vehicle accident laws in Ohio. Typically, if you are involved in a minor accident that results in no injuries, you may not need to obtain legal counsel. However, the best way to understand applicable Ohio laws to protect yourself is to speak with an attorney. Especially if injuries result from the car or truck accident you are involved in, then seeking out an experienced attorney would be critical to maximizing your chances of recovery. You should also seek out an experienced attorney before accepting any settlements.

Ohio is a “fault” state, so someone involved in a vehicle accident may file a claim for recovery against the person who was considered at fault for the accident. This can happen in three ways:

• Filing a claim to against your own insurance company (if the at fault party was not insurded or not insured adequately under the underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage)
• File a lawsuit in civil court
• Filing a claim against at-fault driver’s insurance company

The driver at fault for the accident is responsible for property damage cause, and any injuries that were caused by the accident. In Ohio, drivers are required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance or otherwise prove financial responsibility. This is done in two ways:

• Minimum liability insurance for at least $25,000 for injury or death of a person, including bicyclist or pedestrian; at least $50,000 for all injuries or deaths involved in a singular accident; and at least $25,000 for any property damage arising out of a singular accident.
• Obtain a certificate of proof of financial responsibility authorized by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles

If you or a loved one was struck by a car or truck when you were a pedestrian or bicyclist, contact personal injury attorney Tom Robenalt at (216) 223-7535 or fill out the online form for a free consultation today.