In 2021 alone, over 966 bicyclists were killed in motor-vehicle traffic crashes in the United States. Even if your injuries aren’t fatal, a severe accident can leave you with lasting impairments that affect your ability to work, live independently, and enjoy the activities you love.
If you’ve been in a bicycle accident, you should hire a bicycle accident lawyer who can help you understand your options and secure the compensation you need.
This article serves as a guide to permanent disability after bicycle accidents and how to stay safe on the road.
The Reality of Permanent Disability
Permanent disability means a long-term or permanent condition that significantly limits a person’s ability to do daily activities or work.
In the context of bicycle accidents, permanent disability can result from severe injuries to the head, neck, spine, or limbs.
These injuries can have lifelong consequences, affecting your ability to move, be independent, and enjoy life.
Common Causes of Permanent Disability in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen for different reasons. Some reasons are more likely to cause permanent disability.
For example, crashes with cars can lead to serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, and loss of limbs.
Other common causes of permanent disability in bicycle accidents include crashing into fixed objects, falling from heights, and colliding with other cyclists or pedestrians.
Types of Permanent Disability
Permanent disability can take many forms, depending on the nature and severity of the injury.
Some common types of permanent disabilities resulting from bicycle accidents include:
Traumatic Brain Injury (Tbi)
TBIs can lead to cognitive impairments, memory loss, and changes in behavior or personality.
Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injuries can cause paralysis or loss of sensation and function below the level of the injury.
Amputation
Amputations of limbs or digits can result in permanent loss of mobility and function.
Neurological Disorders
Nerve damage and neurological disorders such as neuropathy or radiculopathy can cause pain, weakness, and sensory deficits.
The Emotional and Financial Toll of Permanent Disability
Dealing with a permanent disability can be emotionally and financially challenging for individuals and their families.
Adjusting to life with a disability, coping with the loss of independence, and facing an uncertain future can be overwhelming.
Additionally, the costs of medical treatment, rehabilitation, assistive devices, home modifications, and lost income can create a significant financial burden for those affected by permanent disability.
Why You Need a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you were left permanently disabled after a bicycle accident, you might be owed money for your injuries and losses.
But understanding the legal process can be hard, especially when you’re dealing with physical and emotional challenges.
That’s why hiring a bicycle accident lawyer can make a big difference. A good lawyer will fight for your rights, gather evidence to support your claim, talk to insurance companies for you, and make sure you get fair compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Life After Permanent Disability
Recovery after a permanent disability can be long and challenging, but it’s important to focus on moving forward and rebuilding your life.
Surround yourself with family, friends, and healthcare professionals for support. Explore resources and services for individuals with disabilities, such as vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology, and community support programs.
Remember, you’re not alone. There are people and organizations ready to help you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been hurt in a bicycle accident, it’s important to understand the risks, seek compensation, and focus on moving forward.
Hiring a bicycle accident lawyer can help guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve, protecting yourself and your loved ones from the serious consequences of permanent disability.