Little Rock Bicycle Accident Attorney

At Reed Firm, we understand that cyclists and pedestrians are some of the most vulnerable people on the road. Our passion for helping people and obsession with justice drive us to advocate tirelessly for victims who have been injured in accidents due to the negligence of others. Whether you were hit while biking or walking, we believe that every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Our commitment to your well-being and to holding wrongdoers accountable is what sets us apart.

In this page, we’ll explore the complexities of bicycle and pedestrian accident claims, your rights as an injured party, and how our firm can help you achieve the justice you deserve.

Bicycle Accidents: Your Rights as a Cyclist

Cycling offers many benefits, including environmental friendliness, exercise, and convenience. However, cyclists often face a higher risk of injury when sharing the road with motor vehicles. Due to their relative lack of protection, bicycle riders can suffer severe injuries in a collision, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal damage.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents:

• Driver Negligence: Drivers may fail to yield to cyclists, ignore bike lanes, or open car doors into the path of a bicyclist. Distracted driving and speeding are other frequent causes of collisions.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and poorly maintained roads can cause a cyclist to lose control, resulting in serious injuries.
• Failure to Obey Traffic Laws: Some drivers are unaware of or simply disregard traffic laws meant to protect cyclists, such as maintaining a safe distance when passing.

When a negligent driver causes a crash, injured cyclists have the right to pursue compensation for their injuries and damages. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or blame the cyclist for the accident. That’s where our team steps in.

At Reed Firm, we take a people-first approach, putting your recovery and future at the forefront. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a bicycle accident can take on your life. Our goal is to help you receive the maximum compensation possible for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Our Commitment to You:

• Thorough Investigation: We will gather all necessary evidence, including police reports, eyewitness statements, and accident reconstruction analysis, to build a strong case.
• Negotiation with Insurers: Insurance companies often undervalue claims, but we will aggressively negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.
• Court Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Pedestrian Accidents: Protecting the Most Vulnerable

Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents because they lack any physical protection. Whether you were crossing the street, walking on a sidewalk, or navigating a parking lot, being hit by a vehicle can result in catastrophic injuries, including head trauma, internal injuries, and permanent disabilities.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers texting or using their phones often fail to see pedestrians crossing the street.
• Speeding: Speeding drivers have less time to react to pedestrians, making accidents more likely to result in severe injury or death.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers may fail to stop at crosswalks or intersections, disregarding pedestrians’ right of way.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol often have impaired judgment and reaction times, making them a danger to pedestrians.

Like cyclists, pedestrians have legal protections under state and local laws, but too often, these laws are ignored or violated by reckless drivers. At the Reed Firm, we are committed to ensuring justice for pedestrian accident victims by holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions.

Why Reed Firm Stands Out:

• Personalized Attention: We know that every pedestrian accident case is unique. We take the time to understand your specific situation and tailor our legal strategy to meet your needs.
• Comprehensive Legal Support: From medical treatment and insurance negotiations to preparing for trial, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on recovery.
• No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we secure compensation for you.

The Physical, Emotional, and Financial Impact of Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents

Both bicycle and pedestrian accidents can leave victims with life-altering injuries. Beyond the physical trauma, victims often face emotional challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as they struggle to return to their normal lives. The financial strain from medical bills, ongoing treatment, and lost wages can add further stress to an already difficult situation.

At Reed Firm, we believe that your recovery should be your only concern, and we are here to handle the legal battles on your behalf. We strive to obtain full compensation for all aspects of your loss, including:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and future medical care.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for missed work and loss of future earning potential due to long-term injuries or disability.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages to account for the physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of bicycles, clothing, or other personal items damaged in the accident.

Medical Bills

You can recover the cost of medical treatment related to the accident. This starts with the treatment you receive immediately after the accident, such as emergency room visits or ambulance transport. You can also recover damages based on your ongoing medical needs. In the end, the at-fault party should be on the hook for costs related to surgery, hospitalization, and other care.

Lost Wages

If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for the income you lost during your recovery. These losses go beyond just the wages you miss out on. You might be entitled to compensation based on things like your used vacation days or lost benefits.

Pain and Suffering

Bicycle and pedestrian accidents often cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. You may experience anxiety, reduced mobility, and a loss of enjoyment in daily activities. Arkansas law allows compensation for these non-economic damages based on how the injury affects your life.

Diminished Future Earnings

Some injuries limit your ability to return to your previous job or work at the same level. If your earning capacity is reduced, you can recover damages for the long-term financial impact. This often applies in cases involving serious fractures, head injuries, or lasting physical limitations.

Bicycle Repair Costs

You can recover the cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle and any damaged gear, such as helmets, clothing, or accessories. High-quality bicycles are a major investment, and replacing them can be costly.

We understand that no amount of money can undo the harm caused by a serious accident, but a fair settlement or court award can help you move forward with your life.

Why Choose Reed Firm?

At Reed Firm, we are not just another personal injury law firm. Our passion for people and obsession with justice fuel everything we do. We recognize that injured cyclists and pedestrians are often treated as afterthoughts by drivers, insurance companies, and even the legal system. That’s why we make it our mission to stand up for the rights of vulnerable road users and ensure that your voice is heard.

What Makes Us Different:

• Compassionate Representation: We treat every client with the care and respect they deserve. We listen to your story, understand your pain, and provide a comforting presence through every step of the legal process.
• Aggressive Advocacy: We are relentless in pursuing justice for our clients. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case to a jury, we fight with everything we have to secure the best outcome for you.
• Experience and Results: With years of experience handling bicycle and pedestrian accident cases, we have a track record of success. Our team has secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for injured clients, and we are ready to put that experience to work for you.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Statistics in Arkansas

Cyclists and pedestrians are at increased risk of collisions with motor vehicles. Without the protections of seat belts or crumple zones, the injuries involved in these collisions are more likely to be fatal.

The Arkansas Center for Health Improvement (ACHI) reports alarming trends in fatal accidents. According to the data, fatal pedestrian accidents in the state increased from 50 to 74 annually between 2016 and 2023. During that same time, fatal bicycle accidents nearly quadrupled, from three to 11.

There are also serious outcomes beyond the loss of life in these accidents. If you’ve been struck by a car while riding a bike or traveling on foot, our team is here to help. The support of a Little Rock pedestrian accident attorney could be the difference between walking away empty-handed and getting the compensation you deserve.

Statute of Limitations for Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Claims

Even if you have a strong case for compensation after an accident, your window of time to act is limited. Under Arkansas Code Annotated § 16-56-105, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit over injuries caused by a bicycle or pedestrian accident.

This deadline applies whether you were struck while riding a bicycle or walking. If you miss this window, the court will likely dismiss your case, and you will miss out on the right to recover compensation. Acting promptly can also help by giving your attorneys enough time to build a strong case and gather any available evidence.

Certain situations can change how the deadline applies. For example, claims involving minors or government entities may be subject to different rules or shorter notice requirements. Speaking with a Little Rock bicycle accident attorney soon after the incident helps ensure your claim is filed on time and properly supported.

Bicycle Accident FAQs

Do cyclists have the same rights as a motorist on Little Rock streets?

Yes. Arkansas law generally treats cyclists as vehicle operators. This means you have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers, as well as some additional protections that apply specifically to cyclists.

What is the “Three-Foot Rule” in Arkansas?

Arkansas law requires drivers to leave at least three feet of space when passing a bicycle. This rule is designed to reduce the risk of sideswipe accidents and provide cyclists with a safer buffer on the road.

What is the statute of limitations for a bicycle accident in Arkansas?

You typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit or settle your claim. Any delay will only make it harder to get the compensation you deserve.

What if I was “jaywalking” or outside a crosswalk?

You may still recover compensation, even if you were not in a designated crosswalk. Arkansas follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means your recovery may be reduced based on your share of fault, but you can still recover damages if you are less than 50% responsible.

Do pedestrians always have the right-of-way in Arkansas?

Not always. Pedestrians generally have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks and at intersections, but they must also follow traffic signals and exercise reasonable care. Drivers still have a duty to remain alert and avoid collisions.

Does my own car insurance cover me if I was hit as a pedestrian?

In many cases, yes. Your auto insurance policy may include coverage such as uninsured motorist protection, which can apply if the at-fault driver lacks insurance or cannot be identified. Reviewing your policy helps determine what coverage is available.

Your Path to Justice Begins Here

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle or pedestrian accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The longer you wait, the harder it may be to gather evidence and build a strong case. At Reed Firm, we are here to guide you through the legal process, providing clear communication and unwavering support at every turn.

Contact us today for a free case review. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and begin fighting for the compensation and justice you deserve.

At Reed Firm, we believe that every injured person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Our passion for people and obsession with justice make us the go-to firm for cyclists and pedestrians who need a trusted ally in their fight for recovery. Let us stand by your side and help you get back on your feet after a serious accident.