Bicycle accidents continue to be a leading cause of road deaths and injuries in Nevada. In 2010, a total of 583 bicycle accidents killed 6 and injured 527 persons. Many of the accidents involved collisions with motor vehicles at intersections. In Las Vegas, where bicycle riding is supported as a means of transportation and recreational activity, bicyclists remain exposed to risks of severe and fatal injuries resulting from accidents.

Recent Bicycle Accident Near Charleston Boulevard

A sidewalk on Torrey Pines Drive near Charleston Boulevard was the site of a recent bicycle accident in Las Vegas. The bicyclist was reportedly traveling on the sidewalk when a visibly impaired driver on a pickup truck hit the bicyclist and then crashed through a wall into the backyard of a home. The driver of the pickup truck left the scene of the accident but was later arrested and charged with DUI and hit-and-run. The bicyclist was rushed to the nearby medical center but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Riding a bicycle has more risks than driving a car due to the lack of protection that an enclosed vehicle typically provides an occupant or motorist. Many of the catastrophic bicycle accidents in Las Vegas have occurred when:

• A motorist turned across the path of a cyclist
• A distracted motorist failed to see the bicyclist
• A motorist drove at excessive speed and failed to avoid hitting a bicyclist on the road
• A drunk motorist crashed into a bicyclist

In addition to criminal liability for the death of the bicyclist in the latest bicycle accident, the surviving heirs of the decedent may also have a right to compensation arising from the wrongful death of the bicyclist by pursuing a civil action against the driver.

Wrongful death is a type of personal injury lawsuit that the surviving heirs such as the children, spouse, and parents of the decedent may file against the person whose negligence or recklessness caused the accident that killed the decedent. Legal procedures and paperwork involved can be complicated. It’s best to consult an experienced Las Vegas bicycle accident attorney who can determine whether you are entitled to compensation and who can prepare and file the appropriate paperwork for your claim.

In Las Vegas, Nevada, the law firm of Carter Cullen has years of experience in bicycle accident claims and will work very hard to recover the amount of compensation that you legally deserve. Our firm offers free initial consultations where you can learn more about how we can help you.

We welcome your call today at 702.800.0000 to speak to one of our friendly attorneys.