On a typical afternoon bike ride, Knoxville's streets are tranquil, with the birds singing and sunlight glinting off the Tennessee River. But around the next bend, danger often lurks, unseen - a texting driver, a speeding semi, a car door flung open without warning. In an instant, the music of birds and breeze gives way to squealing brakes and crushing metal. If you or a loved one have suffered harm in a Knoxville bicycle accident, legal support is essential to getting your life back on track. Our experienced bicycle accident attorneys have seen injury cases like yours before. We are fully prepared to bring negligent Knoxville drivers to justice - and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact our 24/7 team today at 877-715-9300 for a free consultation to discuss the details of your case.

Hazards Facing Knoxville Cyclists

Lacking the size, protective windshield and strong metal frame of a car, cyclists are incredibly vulnerable on the road. This lack of protection, paired with a single negligent driver, can lead to devastating accidents. While Knoxville’s beautiful cycling routes are generally safe, the city is not without hazards - particularly those caused by negligent motorists. Common causes of collisions include:

Negligent Drivers - one of the most significant threats to cyclists is negligent drivers not paying full attention to the road or to traffic rules. This includes drivers who are texting, distracted by something inside or outside the vehicle, driving under the influence of substances, or engaging in other forms of reckless behavior. Such negligence can lead to severe, sometimes fatal, accidents with cyclists, who are far more exposed and vulnerable.

Dooring Incidents - a common yet often overlooked cycling hazard is 'dooring' – a term used when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. These incidents can cause serious injuries to cyclists, who have little to no time to react and avoid a collision.

Challenges with Poor Visibility - conditions like low light, fog, glare from the sun, and inclement weather can significantly reduce a driver's ability to see cyclists on the road. This is especially true during early morning and late evening hours.

Road and Infrastructure Issues - the physical condition of the roads can greatly impact cyclist safety. Issues such as potholes, debris, lack of designated bike lanes, and uneven pavement surfaces can easily lead to accidents, as cyclists may be forced to make sudden, dangerous maneuvers to avoid these hazards.

Right Cross Crashes - these happen when a motorist fails to yield the right of way at an intersection, often while making a right-hand turn. These collisions are particularly dangerous as they can lead to direct side-impact crashes with cyclists, who may have little time to avoid the turning vehicle.

Left Turn Accidents - left turn accidents occur when a driver turns left across the path of an oncoming cyclist. Often, these accidents are the result of a driver's misjudgment of the cyclist's speed or not noticing the cyclist at all. The impact of such collisions can be severe, given that the cyclist is often hit directly from the side, leaving little room or time to take evasive action.

Unexpected Stops - sudden stops by vehicles in traffic are a common cause of rear-end collisions involving cyclists. When a car brakes unexpectedly, a following cyclist may not have sufficient time to react and stop, leading to a collision.

Intersections without Proper Signage - intersections that are poorly marked or have confusing signals can be particularly hazardous for cyclists. In areas lacking clear signage, both drivers and cyclists may be uncertain about right-of-way, leading to dangerous encounters. Cyclists, being less visible and more exposed, are especially vulnerable in car accident scenarios.

Common Knoxville Bicycle Accident Injuries

While cycling promotes health and freedom, it also carries considerable risk if an accident occurs. Bicycle collisions often inflict catastrophic, lifelong injuries including:

Traumatic Brain/Head Damage - concussions, bleeding, and other head trauma resulting from a bicycle accident can cause chronic headaches, memory and concentration impairment, and permanent brain damage.

Spinal Injuries - partial or total paralysis can result from the spinal cord lacerations or vertebrae fractures caused by a bicycle accident.

Internal Organ Injuries - sudden physical impact can rupture organs like livers, kidneys, lungs.

Broken Bones - collarbones, hips, ribs and other bones can splinter or break due to collision with a car or the hard pavement.

Painful Road Rash - pavement abrasions can lead to severe pain, infections, unsightly scarring, and restricted movement as skin heals.

These injuries, and others not mentioned, can lead to long term mobility issues, pain, missed work, and major financial burdens. From medical bills to lost income and other accident-related costs, our lawyers help bicyclists recover the compensation they need.

Why You Need an Experienced Knoxville Bicycle Accident Lawyer

In the painful, disorienting aftermath of a bicycle accident, navigating traffic laws, injury claims, insurance negotiations, and legal processes can be overwhelming. Our Tennessee bicycle accident attorneys can ease your stress and guide you carefully through this process, shouldering your legal burdens and allowing you to focus on your recovery. Our service are multifaceted, including:

Claim Management

Filing and Following Through: We meticulously handle insurance claims, ensuring you aren’t stuck with an unjust settlement that fails to meet your needs.

Evidence Gathering: Your attorney will collect and organize all necessary documentation, from police reports to medical records, to build a robust case on your behalf.

Thorough Investigation

Pinpointing Negligence: We conduct detailed investigations to identify all parties liable for your accident, whether a negligent driver or the local government.

Navigating Local Laws: As experts in Tennessee bicycle accident law, we can navigate your state’s legal landscape and use it to your advantage.

Assertive Negotiation and Litigation

Dealing with Insurance Companies: We engage in tough negotiations with insurance companies, fighting for your rightful compensation.

Representation in the Courtroom: If negotiations don't yield proper results, your injury attorney is prepared to take your bicycle accident claim to court.

Wettermark Keith:
Knoxville’s Trusted Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Our accomplished bicycle accident attorneys have fought tirelessly for injury victims across Knoxville and Tennessee, recovering compensation for clients through meticulous case preparation, strategic negotiation tactics, and compassionate support. Our attorneys focus on client well-being through caring, personalized counsel when clients feel most vulnerable. This genuine commitment has helped countless local bicyclists find justice. If you or someone you love suffered harm in a Knoxville bicycle accident, please contact Wettermark Keith at 877-715-9300 for a free consultation with one of our experienced bicycle accident lawyers.

With offices located throughout Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida, Wettermark Keith has an excellent reputation as one of the most accomplished personal injury firms in the country. Our reach is not only regional but includes a diverse range of practice areas, including premises liability. At Wettermark Keith, we believe in taking cases personally. Our purpose is to practice with care and compassion - to tell our client’s stories and make their voices heard. A lawyer from our team will do this by building strong relationships based on constant communication and an unwavering dedication to truth and trust. Winning personal injury cases isn’t our goal - caring for you is. Winning is just how we show it. As we say, it’s more to us, it’s personal.

LET US FIGHT FOR YOU

Wettermark Keith was extremely professional and helpful. This personal injury law firm helped my husband over 10 years ago when he fell and broke his foot on vacation. I called them first because I liked their TV commercials. They are very nice people and I would call them again if I needed a lawyer.

- Juanita

Law firm Wettermark Keith has exceeded my expectations! I recommend these lawyers to anyone and everyone I come across. Their commitment to their clients is outstanding. Communication is easy. And I got my settlement very fast. I definitely recommend working with Lee Hawker. He is very gracious and kind. He looked out for me and my family and went above and beyond for us. I’m very grateful!

- Alexa

My personal embattlement with the Social Security Administration went downhill. From a personal recommendation, I reached out to Wettermark Keith law firm. Brian Smith and his team took my case and throughout the whole process, I felt more than just another number. Frequent updates were provided, and emphasis was placed on ensuring all needed documentation was in place. In the end, the accident case resulted in a favorable victory. A big thank you to my lawyer Brian Smith and the team at Wettermark Keith for the hard work throughout the entire personal injury process.

- Dallas

I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Mark English at Wettermark Keith law firm after my car accident in December 2021. He was very thorough in everything, did a wonderful job of explaining everything that was happening, and was super easy to get in touch with when I needed him. I never had a question that was left unanswered by this lawyer. He's very kind and patient, and he made the personal injury claims process so easy for me. I absolutely recommend him, it was a pleasure working with him!

- Rose

I am so elated that I utilized Mr. Muhammad Abdullah’s services. In the beginning, he told me the compensation that I would receive for my personal injury claim and I actually received more than that! After my car wreck (in my brand-new vehicle), I was actually surprised that I was in the pain that I was in. Mr. Abdullah made sure I saw the necessary people for therapy and worked hard to get me back into my car after the accident. I felt that he was diligent, listened to my concerns, and quickly got me back in my car and compensated! I will be utilizing Mr. Abdullah again and again, anytime I ever have to hire a lawyer.

- Madinah

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident in Knoxville?

Immediate Steps:

Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible to avoid further danger.
Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. After a bike accident, it’s crucial that you visit a healthcare provider as soon as possible for a full evaluation. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Call 911: Report the accident to the police, even for minor incidents. A police report is crucial for legal and insurance purposes.
Exchange Information: Obtain contact and insurance details from the other party involved. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information.
Gather Evidence: If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, your bicycle, any injuries, and the surroundings.
Report the Accident to Your Insurer: Notify your insurance company about the accident but avoid making any definitive statements or accepting blame.
Consult a Bicycle Accident Lawyer: Consider getting legal advice, especially if there are significant injuries or complexities in the accident. Our attorneys offer free consultations 24/7 at 877-715-9300.

How does Tennessee law affect my rights as a bicyclist in an accident?

Tennessee bicycle laws that might affect your case include:

Comparative Fault System: Tennessee follows a comparative fault system. If you are partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Helmet Laws: In Tennessee, riders under 16 are required to wear helmets. Although not wearing a helmet doesn’t prevent you from seeking compensation, it can impact the assessment of injuries.
Right to Use Roadway: Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and are entitled to use the roadway.

Can I claim compensation for a bicycle accident in Knoxville even if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes, you can claim compensation. Not wearing a helmet doesn’t bar you from claiming compensation. However, the defense might argue that the lack of a helmet contributed to the severity of the injuries.

What types of damages can I recover with the help of a Knoxville bicycle accident lawyer?

Types of recoverable damages after a Knoxville bicycle accident include:

Medical Expenses: Includes hospital bills, medication costs, rehabilitation, and future medical care.
Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income and potential future earnings if the injury affects your ability to work.
Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
Property Damage: Costs for repairing or replacing your bicycle and other personal property damaged in the accident.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a bicycle accident in Knoxville?

If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, it's crucial to be aware of your time limits for filing a lawsuit. Tennessee’s statute of limitations allows you one year from the date of the accident to initiate a personal injury claim. However, there are certain exceptions that can affect this timeframe. For example, if the injured person is a minor, different rules may apply regarding when the countdown for this one-year period begins. Given these nuances, it's essential to consult with a legal professional soon after your accident to ensure that you understand the specific timeline that applies to your case and to safeguard your right to seek compensation.