Bicycling throughout Albuquerque provides not only a healthy way to commute and recreate but also a closer connection to the city and its incredible landscapes. From the picturesque Bosque Trail to the bustling streets of Nob Hill and downtown, Albuquerque’s roads and pathways have become a haven for cyclists. Yet, with increasing traffic and distracted drivers, riding a bicycle can quickly turn dangerous. A collision with a motor vehicle can lead to devastating injuries, leaving victims and their families overwhelmed with medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a bike accident caused by a negligent driver, Gauthier & Maier Law Firm, P.C., is here to help. Our experienced Albuquerque bicycle accident attorney understands the unique laws that govern these cases and is committed to holding the responsible party accountable. Don’t face your recovery alone—contact us today for the care, support, and advocacy you deserve.
Why Choose Us for Your Albuquerque Bicycle Accident Claim
Gauthier & Maier Law Firm brings a deep commitment to delivering justice for accident victims across Albuquerque and Los Lunas. When you choose us to handle your bicycle accident case, you can expect compassionate guidance and assertive legal representation. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Local Knowledge of Albuquerque’s Cycling Scene: Our attorneys have a thorough understanding of the areas where bicycle accidents often occur, such as the Central Avenue corridor, the popular Nob Hill area, and the serene Rio Grande Bosque Trail. This local insight allows us to investigate accidents effectively and identify contributing factors such as poorly maintained roadways, distracted driving, and high-traffic danger zones.
- A Track Record of Success: Our firm has achieved substantial settlements and verdicts for clients in personal injury cases. With millions recovered, we’ve shown time and time again that we’re skilled in maximizing compensation for our clients.
- Client-Centered Advocacy: We treat your case as if it were our own. You’ll work directly with our attorneys, Shane and Chance, to build a strategy designed around your specific needs. You’ll also stay informed every step of the way, ensuring that your voice is at the center of everything we do.
- Trial-Ready Attorneys: While many firms hesitate to take cases to court, we excel in trials. Our background in trial advocacy means we are fully prepared to fight for the justice you deserve, whether through negotiation or litigation.
With Gauthier & Maier, you’re not just another case number—you’re part of our legal family.
Common Causes of Albuquerque Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen anywhere, at any time, for any number of reasons. There are, however, certain situations that tend to lead to more bicycle accidents.
- Getting struck by a car is the most common cause of bicycle accidents (as well as the most deadly), according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA)
- Hitting something on the road, which is also very common and can be the result of poor road conditions, poor road maintenance, or things like debris
- Swerving to avoid a person or an animal, the animal of which may be a domestic or wild animal
- Low visibility because bicycles are small and are difficult to see, especially at certain times of the day (dusk and dawn)
Determining the cause of a bicycle accident is a critical part of recovering fair and just compensation for your injuries. When the accident was caused by another person or entity, they are liable for the damages you suffered if they owed you a duty of care.
For example, a car driver owes bicyclists a duty of care on the road, which typically means following the rules of the road. Pedestrians owe a duty of care to be mindful of other people in and around the roads and bike paths. When pedestrians bring their animals on walks, they must control their animals and avoid interfering with the safety of others, like cyclists.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Injuries from bike accidents range from scratches to death. Like any accident, the severity is dependent on the circumstances. Common injuries include:
- Facial or dental injuries
- Road rash
- Dislocated or broken bones or fractures
- Severe knee injuries, including tears of the ACL or MCL, from the impact with the car
- Severe hand and wrist injuries from the impact with the ground
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal injuries
Something unique to bicyclists is injuries caused by “dooring.” Dooring occurs when someone in a parked car opens the door without looking first. A cyclist fails to see the door open in time and collides with the door. Injuries associated with this type of accident include the above but often also include:
- Concussions
- Whiplash
- Internal bleeding
- Internal organ damage
Wearing a helmet and other protective gear helps prevent serious injuries, but they are not enough to protect against automobiles. In worst-case scenarios, wrongful death may occur.
The Insurance Company Made Me an Offer. Should I Take It?
When an insurance company makes you a settlement offer, it’s tempting to accept it quickly, especially if you’re facing mounting medical bills or lost income. However, it’s important to consult a lawyer first to ensure the offer truly reflects the full value of your case. Insurance companies are in the business of protecting their profits—not ensuring you receive fair compensation. Their goal is often to settle bicycle accident claims quickly for the lowest amount possible.
Common tactics include downplaying severe injuries, questioning who was at fault, or using your own words against you. They may also pressure you into signing away your rights before you fully understand the long-term impact of your injuries.
At Gauthier & Maier, we ensure that insurance companies don’t take advantage of you. Our attorneys will assess the true value of your bicycle accident claim, account for all damages, and negotiate to secure the compensation you deserve. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf and fight for your rights in civil court.
Compensation Available to Bicycle Accident Victims in Albuquerque, NM
A bicycle accident can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with significant financial, physical, and emotional burdens. At Gauthier & Maier, we work tirelessly to recover the full range of damages you’re entitled to under New Mexico law. Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be able to claim compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Covers past, current, and future treatment costs related to your injuries, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication.
- Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income you’ve lost due to your inability to work during recovery.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: Compensation if your injuries prevent you from returning to your prior occupation or working at full capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: Covers repairs or replacement costs for your bicycle and other damaged belongings.
- Wrongful Death Damages: If your loved one was killed in a bicycle accident, we can help you seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related damages.
No amount of money can undo what has happened, but fair compensation can provide the financial stability you need to move forward.
What if I’m Partly to Blame for My Injuries?
It’s not uncommon for cyclists to wonder if they can still pursue compensation if they were partially at fault for their accident. While drivers are often primarily responsible for bicycle accidents, there are scenarios where a cyclist’s actions—such as failing to obey traffic signals, riding without proper visibility equipment, or veering unpredictably—might contribute to the event.
Fortunately, New Mexico follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you share some blame. Your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, you can still recover 80% of the awarded damages. This system ensures that accountability is distributed fairly. At Gauthier & Maier, we’ll carefully evaluate your case to minimize your fault and maximize your potential compensation.
Contact Our Albuquerque Bicycle Accident Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Albuquerque, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. A skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here are just a few ways we can help:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly to establish fault.
- Handle all communications with the insurance companies to protect your rights.
- Ensure all deadlines, such as the statute of limitations, are met.
- Fight to secure full and fair compensation for your injuries, both in and out of court.
At Gauthier & Maier, we’re passionate about standing up for the rights of Albuquerque’s cyclists. Contact us today at (505) 226-3205 for a free consultation with our experienced team. Your path toward recovery and justice starts today.