Last week, on Monday, September 16, a tragic incident on Hwy. 9 near Riverside, Missouri took the life of a 25-year-old cyclist after the back wheel of his bicycle was struck by a 2016 Chevy Cruze. This heartbreaking event serves as a reminder of the serious dangers cyclists face on our roads.
As personal injury lawyers we've heard too many stories like this one— a preventable death in a preventable crash which can now only serve as a warning to drivers and law enforcement for the future.
Cyclist safety and advocacy is important to our firm for personal reasons as well as professional. Bert Braud, one of our longest tenured partners, is a triathlete and active member of the national and local cycling community. Mark Schloegel also spends lots of time on his bike both here in our city as well as on cycling trips in the mountains of Colorado.
These real-life connections only increase our concern with this topic at Popham Law. We believe that understanding your rights and options is essential—first, to prevent the need for an auto accident lawsuit altogether, but also in those rare and tragic cases when it is necessary to seek justice.
The Impact of Bicycle Accidents in Kansas City
Cycling is a popular mode of transportation and recreation in Kansas City. Despite having the right to share the road safely, cyclists often face dangers due to negligent drivers, leading to severe injuries and even the need for an auto accident lawsuit. It’s important to recognize the types of injuries that can occur and the legal steps available if you're involved in such an accident.
Types of Bicyclist Injuries
Minor Injuries
Bicycle accidents can sometimes result in injuries that are painful but not life-threatening—injuries like road rash, abrasions and contusions, or even minor burns.
While these injuries can be uncomfortable, they may not require the help of a car injury lawyer. However, it's still crucial to monitor your health and seek medical attention when needed.
Major Injuries
Bicyclists are especially vulnerable in accidents involving vehicles. Some of the most serious injuries include:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Head injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Facial injuries, including fractures or eye injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries and soft tissue damage
Such injuries can have long-term effects, impacting your ability to work or enjoy everyday life. In cases like these, an auto accident lawsuit might be necessary to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and suffering. Consulting with a car injury lawyer can help you understand your options and guide you through the legal process.
Emotional and Psychological Injuries
Bicycle accidents don’t just cause physical injuries—they can lead to emotional trauma as well. Psychological effects such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression can be just as debilitating as physical injuries. If you’re struggling with emotional trauma following an accident, a car injury lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve to access the therapy and support you need.
Preventative Measures for Cyclists and Drivers
While we can’t prevent all accidents, the data available to us shows we can prevent many of them. Though it’s never your fault if you’re injured by a negligent driver, there are steps both cyclists and drivers can take to reduce risks of serious injury or death while riding a bicycle. And while many of them seem like common sense, skipping the basics is usually the cause of preventable and serious injuries.
For Cyclists: wear helmets and reflective gear, maintain your bike, and stay vigilant. Use your voice to advocate for city initiatives and accountability for drunk driving in the Kansas City Metro Area so that cyclists like you can enjoy the road without fear of others’ wrongful decisions.
For Drivers: Always watch for cyclists, maintain a safe distance, and never drive under the influence. No one gets behind the wheel expecting something to go wrong, but when it does, it’s too late to go back and see your decisions in a different light.
Education programs can also help drivers understand cyclists' rights and needs, promoting mutual respect and safety. Initiatives against drunk driving, like the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, offer statistics on the number of preventable drunk driving car crashes. These numbers include preventable deaths of bicyclists.
Monday's crash especially underlines the importance of drivers who practice responsible alcohol consumption. On Wednesday, September 18, KCTV5 reported that the woman driving the vehicle in the Riverside accident had a blood alcohol level of 0.164 percent.
By fulfilling their responsibilities and advocating for safety in the community, drivers play a key role in reducing accidents and ensuring a safer road environment for all.
The Vision Zero Initiative: Safer Roads for Everyone
Kansas City is actively working to improve safety through the Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries. Vision Zero is an international movement aimed at eliminating all traffic fatalities and severe injuries while increasing safe, healthy, and equitable mobility for all. Our city’s focus includes safety for cyclists in many steps of the action plan, which advocates believe will bring better infrastructure, which will in turn prevent accidents and save lives.
According to Vision Zero, Bicycle accidents have increased by 2.8% between 2010 and 2020. The Kansas City government has already begun to implement the construction of dozens of miles of protected bike facilities. With the help of Vision Zero, Kansas city is moving towards a safer transportation system.
Read our blog on Vision Zero to learn more about the city's action plan for Kansas City Metro roadways.
What To Do When You Need an Auto Accident Lawsuit
If you or someone you love have been involved in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, consider these steps:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Your health should always be your first priority, of course, and it’s important to seek emergency care even if you think you’ll be okay. Many internal injuries cannot be detected from the outside.
- Document the Accident – Take photos, collect witness statements and contact information, and keep all medical records. Take your time keeping things organized—the details can make a big difference in your case.
- Contact a Car Injury Lawyer – The Popham Law Firm has extensive experience handling cases like yours. We also have a personal stake in bicycle accident cases; a few of our partners are active members of the Kansas City cycling community. We’re here to help guide you through the complexities of an auto accident lawsuit.
Why Choose The Popham Law Firm?
Since 1918, The Popham Law Firm has been advocating for individuals in personal injury cases. We’re here to provide compassionate, experienced representation if you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a bicycle accident. If you need guidance on an auto accident lawsuit or want to speak with a knowledgeable car injury lawyer, contact us at (844) 243-2288 or use our online chat feature to get started.
