Bicycle Accidents

Each year in Greater Vancouver, bicycle accidents result in fatalities or severe injuries such as head injuries, soft tissue injuries or spinal cord injuries. Some of the most common types of cyclist accidents include negligent drivers who:

• Open their car door without looking
• Change lanes without shoulder checking
• Cross or turn into intersections where cyclists are already crossing

However, not all bicycle accidents involve a collision with a car: They can be collisions with other vehicles, such as cyclists, or encounters with road hazards. To complicate matters, many bicycle accidents in Vancouver are hit-and-run accidents where the driver fails to stop.

Be aware that while you are riding a bicycle, the Motor Vehicle Act of BC defines you as a ‘motor vehicle’ and ICBC will treat you as such during your bicycle accident claim. This definition surprises many cyclists when they admit to riding on the sidewalk or not obeying traffic controls.

After a bicycle accident, you may tend to minimize your injuries due to shock. DO NOT settle your personal injury claim too soon. It usually takes several days to feel the full effects of your injuries, so it’s crucial that you consult a physician during this time.

If you were not at fault, you should know exactly what compensation you are entitled to by speaking with a personal injury lawyer team who has experience with bicycle accidents in Vancouver and BC. Contact us today for a free consultation about your legal rights BEFORE you speak with ICBC. Take the first step, and the Tell Del team will take care of the rest.