North Carolina
Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Injured in a bicycle crash? Get the legal support you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
As more North Carolinians choose biking for commuting and recreation, bicycle accidents involving vehicles are becoming more frequent—and more severe. At RHD Legal, we understand the unique challenges faced by injured cyclists. Our dedicated bicycle accident attorneys in North Carolina are here to hold negligent drivers accountable and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.
Bicycle Accidents in North Carolina: An Increasing Risk
Bicycling is an increasingly popular mode of transportation and recreation in North Carolina, particularly in urban areas where traffic congestion and environmental concerns drive more people to cycle. Local governments have responded by integrating bike lanes, cycling paths, and other bicycle-friendly infrastructure into city planning. As a result, cyclists are now a common sight on roads and streets throughout the state.
However, with this increase in bicycling comes a rise in bicycle accidents, particularly those involving motor vehicles. These types of accidents are often severe, given the vulnerability of cyclists compared to the size and speed of cars, trucks, and other vehicles. When a motor vehicle collides with a bicycle, the cyclist is at a significant risk of serious injury or even death. At RHD Legal, we understand the devastating impact that such accidents can have on your life, and our experienced bicycle accident lawyers in North Carolina are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (919) 246-4001 to schedule a Free Consultation and start the process of securing justice.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents Involving Vehicles
Bicycle accidents involving motor vehicles are often the result of driver negligence. Understanding the common causes of these accidents can be crucial in establishing liability and pursuing a personal injury claim:
Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield the right of way to cyclists, especially at intersections or when making turns. This is one of the most common causes of bicycle accidents, often leading to severe collisions.
Distracted Driving: With the prevalence of smartphones and in-car technology, distracted driving has become a significant issue. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise not paying full attention to the road may not see a cyclist in time to avoid a collision.
Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected obstacles, including cyclists. Speeding vehicles are also more likely to cause severe injuries upon impact due to the force of the collision.
Opening Car Doors (“Dooring”): One of the unique dangers cyclists face is being struck by a car door that is suddenly opened into their path. This type of accident, known as “dooring,” often occurs when a driver or passenger fails to check for approaching cyclists before opening their door.
Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are less capable of making safe decisions and are more likely to cause accidents. Impaired driving is a leading cause of fatal bicycle accidents.
Unsafe Lane Changes: Motorists who change lanes without signaling or checking their blind spots may inadvertently collide with a cyclist. This is especially dangerous on roads without dedicated bike lanes.
Each of these scenarios highlights the potential dangers that cyclists face on the road and underscores the importance of holding negligent drivers accountable.
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Contact a Bicycle Injury Lawyer in North Carolina Today
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Injuries Common in North Carolina Bicycle Accidents
When a motor vehicle collides with a bicycle, the resulting injuries are often catastrophic. The lack of protection for cyclists compared to motorists means that even low-speed impacts can cause significant harm. Some of the most common injuries sustained in these accidents include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even with a helmet, cyclists are at high risk of suffering head injuries in a collision. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, with long-term effects on cognitive function and quality of life.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting a victim’s mobility and independence.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a collision often results in broken bones, particularly in the limbs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries: The force of a collision can cause internal bleeding or damage to vital organs, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
- Road Rash: When cyclists are thrown from their bikes, they often suffer severe abrasions known as road rash. These injuries can be painful, prone to infection, and may result in permanent scarring.
Practice Areas
North Carolina’s Harsh Contributory Negligence Rule
While North Carolina offers a growing network of bicycle-friendly infrastructure, the state’s legal environment is not particularly favorable to cyclists. North Carolina follows a contributory negligence rule, which is one of the most restrictive in the country. Under this law, if a cyclist is found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, they can be completely barred from recovering any compensation.
This harsh standard often places cyclists at a significant disadvantage, as insurance companies and defense attorneys may aggressively argue that the cyclist was partially to blame for the accident, whether by failing to signal, not staying within a designated bike lane, or even slightly deviating from traffic laws. The contributory negligence rule can make it exceptionally difficult for injured cyclists to secure the compensation they need for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Given these challenges, it is crucial to have an experienced bicycle accident attorney on your side who understands North Carolina’s legal landscape and can effectively counter arguments of contributory negligence. At RHD Legal, we are dedicated to building strong cases that minimize or eliminate any claims of fault on the part of our clients, ensuring that you have the best chance of recovering full and fair compensation.
How We Prove Fault in Bicycle Accidents
Proving liability in a bicycle accident involving a motor vehicle often requires a thorough investigation. At RHD Legal, we work diligently to gather evidence that demonstrates the driver’s negligence, such as:
- Accident Reports: Police reports often contain valuable information about the circumstances of the accident and any traffic violations committed by the driver.
- Eyewitness Testimony: Statements from witnesses can corroborate your account of the accident and help establish fault.
- Traffic Camera Footage: If available, footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses can provide crucial visual evidence of the accident.
- Expert Analysis: Accident reconstruction experts can analyze the scene and the damage to determine how the collision occurred and who was at fault.
By building a strong case, we aim to hold the negligent driver accountable for your injuries and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
After a bicycle accident, dealing with insurance companies can be one of the most challenging aspects of your recovery. Insurance adjusters often attempt to minimize their payout by offering settlements that do not fully cover the extent of your injuries or future medical needs. They may also try to place some or all of the blame on you, using the misconception that cyclists are often reckless or fail to follow the rules of the road.
At RHD Legal, we advocate fiercely on your behalf, negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement. If a reasonable agreement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court to pursue the full compensation you are entitled to.
Why Choose RHD Legal for Your Bicycle Accident Case?
When you’re injured, the attorney you choose can make all the difference. At RHD Legal, we’re more than legal representation—we’re your dedicated support team.
Personalized Attention
You’re never just a case number. We take the time to understand your story and fight for what matters most to you.
Trusted by Attorneys
Our work earns referrals from other lawyers who know we deliver results with integrity and professionalism.
Clear, Compassionate Communication
We keep you informed at every step, so you always know where your case stands and what comes next.
Relentless Advocacy
We don’t back down. We fight hard to secure the best possible outcome—because your recovery deserves nothing less.
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FAQ
FAQ: Bicycle Accident Claims in North Carolina
Seek medical attention, report the crash to the police, take photos, and avoid discussing fault at the scene. Then contact a bicycle accident attorney right away to protect your claim.
Yes. While not wearing a helmet may be mentioned by insurers, it does not automatically disqualify you from compensation. We’ll work to prove that the driver’s negligence—not helmet use—caused your injuries.
Due to North Carolina’s contributory negligence rule, even minor fault can bar you from recovery. That’s why it’s critical to have a lawyer who can disprove fault arguments and defend your rights.
You have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in NC. Don’t delay—early action improves your chances of success.
Most bicycle accident claims settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. If insurers don’t offer a fair settlement, we’re fully prepared to litigate.
You may still recover through your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage or other legal avenues. Contact our team to explore your options.
There are always exceptions to every rule, that is why it is important to reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney in North Carolina.
What to Expect When You Work with RHD Legal
Your Free, No-Pressure Consultation
We start by listening. During your initial consultation, we’ll review your situation, answer your questions, and explain your rights. There’s no cost, no obligation—just clarity and guidance when you need it most.
Clear Commitment & Onboarding
If we’re a good fit, we make it official. Our team walks you through every step of hiring RHD Legal, ensuring you fully understand the process, paperwork, and path forward. You focus on healing—we’ll handle the legal side.
Fighting Alongside You
Once we take your case, you’re never alone. Our legal team works aggressively to build your case, deal with the insurance companies, and protect your rights—keeping you informed every step of the way.
Pursuing the Justice You Deserve
Whether through settlement or trial, we pursue the best possible outcome for your case. We don’t just aim to win—we fight to deliver real results that help you move forward with confidence.
What Our Client's
Have to Say
At RHD Legal, every testimonial is more than kind words—it’s a reminder of why we do what we do. Hearing how we’ve made a difference in someone’s life fuels our commitment to fight for every client with care, integrity, and determination.
"So nice to be able to recommend a trustworthy firm. They all work hard for the client and really listen to your concerns. I appreciate having the process and expectations clearly laid out. Highly recommend."
"We have truly enjoyed working with RDH Legal. They were very professional and helpful with all our questions and needs. They also made us feel important and we never felt as if we were not informed about the whole process. I definitely would recommend them to everyone. Thank you for all you did."
I can’t say enough nice things about this firm! Richard is a fantastic attorney - knowledgeable, honest, and professional. The staff is top notch. Kayla is friendly and helpful, and Sarah is an amazing paralegal - thorough, knowledgeable, and she doesn’t miss a thing. And on top of all this, they all truly care about their clients. You’re not just a number to them. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
Wonderful team!! Kayla was so helpful and supportive. Truly couldn't have done it without them. Would highly recommend!! 100/10
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