Nashville Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Representing Injured Cyclists Across Tennessee & Beyond

Bicycling can be a great way to commute and stay active, but it is also inherently dangerous. When bicyclists share public roads with motorists who fail to safely operate their vehicles or respect the rights of riders, cyclists face considerable risks of suffering serious injuries.

If you or someone you love has been injured while bicycling, Kinnard Law is here to help. Our Nashville bicycle accident attorneys focus solely on representing victims harmed due to the negligent and wrongful acts of others, and can guide you through the legal process of seeking compensation for your injuries.

Call Kinnard Law today at (615) 933-2893 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our bicycle accident lawyer in Nashville.

Why Choose Kinnard Law?

Kinnard Law is comprised of national-caliber trial lawyers who have earned a reputation for handling personal injury and wrongful death actions across Tennessee and the mid-south. Clients and colleagues turn to our team following preventable accidents because:

• We draw from over 150 years of combined experience
• We’ve secured record-setting verdicts and national recognition
• We have recovered millions in compensation for our clients
• Our firm has been rated among U.S. News’ Tier 1 Best Law Firms

Our Founding Partner Randall L. Kinnard has spent decades honing his craft, and is widely respected throughout the local and legal communities. Mr. Kinnard is also a dual-Certified Civil Trial and Medical Malpractice Specialist, distinctions which speak to his proficiency in complex cases.

Can I File a Lawsuit After a Bicycle Accident in TN?

Your ability to take legal action after being involved in a bicycle accident depends on the specific facts of your case. In order to prevail in civil claims, Plaintiffs must prove:

1. The defendant owed the plaintiff a legal duty. This may be a driver’s duty to safely operate their vehicle and share the road with bicyclists, or a property owner’s duty to address potential hazards.
2. The defendant breached their duty of care. A defendant’s failure to meet their legal obligation often arises from negligence, though it may also stem from a wrongful act.
3. The defendant’s negligence caused injury. Proving causation is one of the most important steps in an injury claim, and requires evidence that a defendant’s conduct was more likely than not the cause of a victim’s injuries.
4. The plaintiff suffered actual damages. Plaintiffs will need to prove they suffered actual damages, including injuries and their resulting economic and non-economic damages.

What Can I File Against?

Generally, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim after a bicycle accident if another person or entity is to blame. While our team at Kinnard Law is available to review your case and explain whether you may have grounds for legal action, there are some examples that can help you understand what types of cases may have merit. For example, injured bicyclists may file claims against:

• A negligent motorist who struck them after to failing to yield at an intersection.
• A truck driver or trucking company that violated regulations involving hours-of-service and driver fatigue.
• A manufacturer, distributor, and / or retailer responsible for a defective product.
• A rideshare service, if the accident was caused by an Uber or Lyft driver using the app at the time.
• A property owner, if there were hazardous conditions on their premises which caused a rider to fall, swerve, or otherwise suffer injury in an accident.

What Compensation Can I Recover for a Bike Accident?

The monetary compensation you can recover after a bicycle accident is also dependent on the facts of your case. Generally, victims are entitled to a recovery of the economic and non-economic damages resulting from their injuries, which can include:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Medications, medical devices, and rehabilitation
• Lost income and lost future earnings
• Physical and emotional pain and suffering

Our team works closely with clients to understand their losses, and consults with medical and financial experts to determine whether they may have future needs to be accounted for when seeking a settlement or jury award.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Bicycle Accident?

In the event of a bicycle accident, the immediate steps you take can significantly impact your ability to receive compensation. Firstly, ensure your safety and move to a secure location if possible. It's imperative to call 911 to report the accident, ensuring a formal police report is filed. Obtaining medical attention promptly, even if injuries seem minor at first, is crucial; not only for health reasons but also to document any injuries sustained. Gather evidence at the scene, which includes taking photos of the accident site, any visible injuries, bicycle damage, and the surroundings. Exchange information with involved parties and collect contact details from any witnesses present. It's essential to avoid making any definitive statements regarding the accident to on-site insurers or other parties without legal counsel. Lastly, consult with a qualified bicycle accident attorney, like those at Kinnard Law, who can guide you through the processes of filing a claim and protecting your rights.

How Are Bicycle Accident Cases Resolved in Tennessee?

Bicycle accident cases in Tennessee are resolved through several avenues. The majority of cases are typically settled out of court, mainly when evidence establishes liability and the extent of damages. This is often achieved through negotiation between your attorney and the involved insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to a civil court where a judge or jury determines the outcome. In preparing for such cases, your attorney will compile comprehensive evidence, including medical reports, expert witness testimonies, and accident reconstructions, if necessary. Tennessee's court system prioritizes mediation as a means to resolve disputes before they escalate to a full trial, which can be a less adversarial and quicker resolution for clients. Understanding the local legal processes and having knowledgeable representation improves the chances of a favorable outcome, whether through settlement or litigation.

Can a Cyclist Be Partially at Fault for an Accident?

Yes, a cyclist can be partially at fault for an accident. In Tennessee, the law follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that if a cyclist is found to be less than 50% at fault, they may still recover damages, though the compensation can be reduced according to their share of fault. For instance, if a cyclist fails to signal a turn and is struck by a car, both parties might share liability. It's crucial to thoroughly assess the accident circumstances to accurately determine fault distribution. Kinnard Law’s team is skilled at analyzing such incidents, ensuring that the cyclists' rights are defended while the facts are meticulously presented. This nuanced approach to fault determination is particularly important in complex cases where multiple factors contribute to the incident. Our attorneys are adept at navigating these challenges and advocating effectively for fair compensation.

Contact Our Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Nashville Today

At Kinnard Law, we have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for those who have suffered because of others. Our team understands the tactics that powerful insurance companies use to minimize payouts, and we know how to effectively counter them to protect your rights. We are committed to standing by your side every step of the way, providing the personalized attention and aggressive advocacy you deserve. Whether you're facing medical bills, lost income, or emotional trauma, we're here to help you level the playing field and fight for the justice and compensation you’re entitled to. Contact our team today to request a consultation and learn how we can assist you with your case.

Our Nashville bicycle accident attorneys offer free consultations, so schedule yours today online or by calling (615) 933-2893.