El Paso County Bicycle Accident Attorney
Are You in Need of an El Paso County Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
Cyclists have every right to use the roads in El Paso County, but they face significant risks when drivers fail to share those roads safely. When a bicycle accident occurs, it can lead to severe injuries or the death of a loved one.
If you or were injured in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to financial compensation. With decades of trial experience, The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. understands what it takes to build a strong case and hold careless drivers accountable. Let us help you seek the justice and recovery you deserve.
Why Choose Us Over Other El Paso County Bicycle Accident Attorneys
Bicycle accidents can leave victims overwhelmed by medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. El Paso County injury attorney Timothy Bussey has an impressive track record of negotiating strong settlements for our clients and taking cases to trial when necessary.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Over 30 years of legal experience handling complex injury cases across a wide range of serious claims
- Recognized among Colorado Springs' Top Attorneys by peers and legal publications.
- Recipient of the Martindale-Hubbell Gold Client Champion Award based on client satisfaction.
- One of only two attorneys in Colorado with the ACS Forensic Lawyer-Scientist Designation reflecting advanced technical training.
- Featured in Colorado Springs Magazine and other publications for professional accomplishments.
- Super Lawyers selection for over 14 years based on peer reviews and independent research.
- Named Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Colorado Springs by Expertise based on professional standing, client satisfaction, and other factors.
- Proven record of multi-million-dollar recoveries for clients in high-stakes injury cases.
You Don’t Have to Face the Insurance Company Alone
Call (719) 475-2555 to speak with a bicycle accident attorney who puts your recovery first.
How We Can Help
We handle the legal burden so you can focus on healing. The insurance company may try to downplay your injuries or blame you for the crash. An experienced attorney can level the playing field and fight for your rights.
When you work with The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., we:
- Investigate the crash scene and gather physical evidence
- Interview witnesses and obtain police and accident reports
- Work with medical experts to document the extent of your injuries
- Negotiate with insurance companies to demand full compensation
- Take your case to trial if a fair settlement isn’t offered
Do You Have a Legitimate Case?
During your free consultation, The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. will go over your options for seeking maximum compensation. You may have a valid bicycle accident claim if:
- You were injured in a crash involving a motor vehicle
- The driver was speeding, distracted, impaired, or otherwise negligent
- You required medical treatment or missed work because of your injuries
- The crash occurred on a public roadway, bike lane, intersection, or other shared space
What’s the Legal Process for a Bicycle Accident Claim?
If you have a viable claim, your case will typically follow these steps:
- Free consultation with our legal team
- Investigation and evidence gathering (accident reports, witness statements, video footage, medical records)
- Claim filing against the at-fault driver’s insurance company
- Negotiation with insurers to seek a full and fair settlement
- Filing a lawsuit if the insurer denies liability or offers too little
- Pre-trial preparation and discovery
- Trial or settlement depending on the circumstances
Throughout the process, we will keep you informed, explain your rights, and aggressively pursue the best possible outcome.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in Colorado?
In Colorado, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident if a motor vehicle was involved. For non-vehicle-related injury claims, the limit is typically two years.
Every case is different and there are exceptions. That’s why we strongly encourage you to speak with a qualified attorney about your claim as soon as possible.
What Types of Damages Are Available?
Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages which may include:
- Medical expenses (hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, ongoing treatment)
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering and emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage, including bicycle replacement or repair
In cases involving gross negligence or reckless behavior, punitive damages may also be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.
Injuries Caused by Bicycle Accidents
Bicyclists are especially vulnerable because they lack the physical protection of a car. A collision with a vehicle can result in:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Facial injuries and dental trauma
- Road rash and lacerations
Many injuries require long-term care, surgeries, and rehabilitation. Some result in permanent disability or lifelong complications. We help clients recover compensation that truly reflects the seriousness of these injuries.
Your Injuries Deserve Full Compensation
Call (719) 475-2555 to learn more today.
How Driver Negligence Causes Bicycle Rider Injuries
Most bicycle accidents occur because a driver acted carelessly or failed to follow the law. Several types of driver negligence causes bicycle crashes in El Paso County.
Speeding
Drivers who exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for conditions reduce their reaction time and increase the severity of collisions.
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
Drivers impaired by alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs are far more likely to hit a cyclist due to delayed reactions and poor judgment.
Distracted Driving
Texting, using a GPS, adjusting music, or talking on the phone can all lead to a failure to notice a nearby cyclist.
Fatigued Driving
Drowsy drivers may drift into bike lanes, miss stop signs, or fail to yield at intersections, causing devastating impacts.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Disobeying traffic control devices puts cyclists directly in harm’s way, especially at busy intersections and crosswalks.
Unsafe Turns
Failing to signal, check blind spots, or yield when turning left or right can lead to collisions with cyclists in adjacent lanes.
Disobeying Traffic Laws
Drivers who fail to yield, ignore right-of-way rules, or cut off cyclists create hazardous conditions.
Not Looking Out For Cyclists
Some drivers simply fail to check for bicycles before opening car doors, backing out of driveways, or merging into traffic.
The Three-Foot Rule in Colorado
Colorado law requires drivers to give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing. This law is designed to protect cyclists from being sideswiped or forced off the road.
Unfortunately, many drivers fail to follow this law, putting riders in unnecessary danger. A driver who violates the three-foot rule and causes an accident may be held liable for resulting injuries and damages.
Why You Should See a Lawyer Right Away
After a bicycle crash, time is of the essence. Physical evidence can be lost or destroyed, and insurance adjusters may use unsavory tactics to weaken your case.
When you contact a lawyer right away, they can take steps to make sure:
- The accident scene is properly documented
- Your medical treatment is recorded and tied to the crash
- All relevant legal deadlines are met
- Insurance companies don’t take advantage of you during a vulnerable time
Case Results
Wrongful Death – $375,000
Our client was struck and killed while riding a bicycle. His family sought compensation for his loss. We looked for every source of recovery, but the at-fault driver only had minimum limits of $25,000 in auto insurance. Despite this challenge, The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., worked the case and was able to recover the full policy limit plus the policy limit from our insured’s under-insured policy. We were also able to convince the at-fault driver’s homeowner’s insurance company to pay its policy limits.
Cyclist Injured by Truck Driver – $100,000
Our client, an avid cyclist in Colorado, was riding through the mountains when a commercial truck overturned, sending debris crashing down onto him. He sustained injuries due to the truck driver’s negligence. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., conducted a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash and coordinated appropriate medical care for the client’s recovery. As a result of our efforts, the client secured $100,000 in compensation.
What Client Are Saying About Us
I received significantly more in my settlement than I expected-Rachel Parker (5-Star Google Review)
Tim and his staff did an amazing job handling my personal injury case. I received significantly more in my settlement than I expected. They were extremely professional and knowledgeable. They treated me with patience and respect, and I never felt pressured to settle. They kept me well informed during the entire process and I never once doubted I made the right choice while working with this firm.
I can’t recommend this firm enough- Mac Smith (5-Star Google Review)
The team at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., is exceptional and helped me settle my case and move forward in my life. Their dedication to their clients is incomparable and I felt cared for and was communicated with impeccably. I can’t recommend this firm enough.
Speak With an Experienced El Paso County Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a bicycle crash, don’t wait to take action. You have legal rights, and The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. is ready to help you protect them.
With decades of experience and a track record of success in personal injury and accident claims, we know what it takes to hold negligent drivers accountable. We treat each case with the attention and dedication it deserves, and we fight for the compensation you need to move forward.
Call us today at (719) 475-2555 to schedule a free consultation.
We proudly represent injured cyclists throughout El Paso County, including Colorado Springs, Fountain, Monument, and surrounding areas.
Bicycle Accident FAQs
What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident?
Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Call the police to file an accident report, gather contact information from witnesses, take photos of the scene and your injuries, and avoid discussing fault at the scene. Contact a bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes. While wearing a helmet is strongly encouraged for safety, not wearing one does not automatically disqualify you from recovering compensation. Your damages may be evaluated based on the specifics of your injuries and how they relate to the accident.
What types of compensation can I recover after a bicycle accident?
You may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of future earning capacity, property damage to your bicycle, and in some cases, punitive damages if the driver’s conduct was especially reckless.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Colorado uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means you can still recover damages as long as you were less than 50% at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Colorado?
If your accident involved a motor vehicle, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in Colorado. If no vehicle was involved, the statute of limitations is typically two years. It’s important to speak with a lawyer quickly to avoid missing deadlines.
Can I file a claim if the driver fled the scene?
Yes. If the driver who hit you left the scene, you may still have options through your own uninsured motorist coverage or other legal avenues. An attorney can help investigate and pursue every potential source of compensation.
Do I need a lawyer for a bicycle accident claim?
While it’s not legally required, having an experienced lawyer greatly increases your chances of recovering fair compensation. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and a lawyer can help protect your rights and build a strong case.
What if I was hit by a commercial vehicle while riding my bike?
If you were struck by a delivery truck, company vehicle, or another commercial driver, you may be able to file a claim against both the driver and their employer. These cases are more complex and often involve multiple layers of insurance.
What is the “three-foot rule” for cyclists in Colorado?
Colorado law requires drivers to give at least three feet of space when passing a bicyclist. Failing to provide this buffer can be considered negligence and may be grounds for legal liability if it results in an accident.
How much does it cost to hire a bicycle accident attorney?
The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. handles personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay no legal fees unless we recover compensation for you. Your initial consultation is free, and we’re here to answer your questions.
Meet Our Attorney
Timothy R. Bussey
For over 25 years, Timothy R. Bussey has built a reputation as one of Colorado’s most respected criminal defense and personal injury attorneys. A former prosecutor and U.S. Air Force veteran, Mr. Bussey brings unmatched dedication, precision, and courtroom experience to every case he handles. In personal injury matters, he is known for fighting aggressively on behalf of clients injured by the negligence of others.