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Vulnerable Road User Injuries

Vulnerable Road User Injuries

We represent people injured or killed on our roadways after a bicycle, pedestrian, or motorcycle incident.

Bicycle Crash Injuries

Bicycling is one of the most enjoyable ways to exercise, commute, or get from point A to B. The physical and psychological benefits of cycling are well documented. However, when sharing the roadways with autos and trucks, riding a bike can be dangerous. Serious injury often results to the bicycle rider in a collision with a motor vehicle. Barden & Barden has represented numerous people who were injured while riding their bicycles. Examples of clients we have worked with include riders who were hit by motor vehicles, victims of dog attacks, and those hit by other people improperly riding a bicycle.

Pedestrian Injuries

As pedestrians we often need to cross a busy road, or just walk on the shoulder or sidewalk. Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users, with absolutely no protection from other vehicles. When an auto hits a pedestrian, the results are usually devastating. Serious injury and trauma are common. Death is a frequent result. At Barden & Barden, we have represented several pedestrians who were injured by careless motor vehicle drivers.

Motorcycle Crash Injuries

Riding a motorcycle is an incredible experience. The nimbleness and acceleration of these vehicles is unique among other users of our roadways. Unfortunately, in a motorcycle crash, the consequences are often severe. A collision with another motor vehicle typically results in severe and permanent injuries. Motorcyclists enjoy a right to the road but are often "not seen" by the liable motorist in an accident. The attorneys at Barden & Barden represent those who have been seriously injured in motorcycle accidents. 

We believe cycling can be both fun and safe for people of all ages, and remind all riders to follow these basic rules:

  • Be predictable, act as the driver of a vehicle when on the road and as a pedestrian when on the sidewalk
  • Control the lane unless wide enough to share, avoid door zone regardless of bike lane, never ride against traffic
  • Use the rightmost lane in your direction of travel, think ahead
  • Signal intentions and be confident, assertive, and courteous
  • At night minimum white light on front and red reflector on rear

In the unfortunate circumstance that you or a loved one are involved in an incident, we strongly recommend doing the following:

  1. Obtain medical treatment if needed, call the police, leave bike in place, obtain contact information of all witnesses.
  2. Get the at-fault person's name, insurance company, license plate number, address, and phone number.
  3. Make sure the responding police officer hears your version of events and completes a police report.
  4. Take photographs and/or video of the incident scene, including all bikes and vehicles involved
  5. Do not minimize your injuries or damage to your bike and gear. Do not talk to or settle with an insurance company before consulting with an attorney who specializes in bicycle law.
Attorney Jed W. Barden is a certified bicycle safety instructor with the League of American Bicyclists. He has taught many classes to newer and intermediate riders on safety skills to confidently enjoy cycling. Jed is also a licensed bicycle racer through the United States Association of Cycling, and tries to get in as much racing as he can in between family and work. 

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