Nashville Bike Accident Lawyer
Helping Bicyclists and Pedestrians in Nashville For More Than 30 Years
When a motor vehicle collides with a person on a bike or on foot, the results can be tragic. Pedestrian and bicycle injuries can result in severe brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and wrongful death. If you or someone close to you has suffered a bicycle or pedestrian accident, it is important to have a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer with first-hand bicycling experience on your side.
At DRS Law, our experienced Nashville bike accident lawyers stand up for the rights of those injured by the careless and negligent actions of others. Our firm is dedicated to helping injury victims obtain justice and compensation.
Nashville Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle travel is becoming more and more common as people seek healthier, cost-effective and environmentally friendly means of transportation. Unfortunately, not all motorists respect the rights of bicyclists and pedestrians on streets, highways, and in parking lots, intersections and other locations.
Many bicycle and pedestrian accidents are the result of the driver simply not seeing the accident victim. This is no excuse. Motorists are obligated to be attentive and watch out for pedestrians and bicycle riders. Failure to do so constitutes negligence.
Of course, the opposing party may claim the accident was your fault. We are prepared to counter such arguments. Our Nashville bike accident attorneys have access to experts in accident reconstruction, human factors and other relevant fields who help us prepare our cases. This depth of knowledge allows us to identify weaknesses in the defendant’s case and present compelling arguments for our clients. We will put our experience, skill and resources to work for you, to help you pursue full and fair compensation for the losses you have suffered.
The Importance of First-Hand Experience
One of the most important assets an attorney can have when handling personal injury claims involving bicycle accidents is first-hand experience cycling. This experience gives the attorney a deep understanding of the risks involved in cycling, as well as the challenges that cyclists face when they are injured in an accident.
Two attorneys at our firm, David Randolph Smith and his son David Anthony Smith, are avid cyclists with first-hand cycling experience, They have been riding together throughout Middle Tennessee (primarily in Williamson County) for more than 20 years and also regularly participate in the Gran Fondo Hincapie Race in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Our top Nashville bicycle accident lawyers draw on this cycling experience to:
- Understand the specific risks involved in cycling, such as the dangers of distracted driving, the hazards of potholes, and the importance of wearing a helmet.
- Identify the evidence that is most important in proving a bicycle accident case, such as skid marks, witness statements, and medical records.
- Communicate effectively with the cyclist and their family, as well as with the insurance company and the other party’s attorney.
- Build a strong case that will maximize the cyclist’s financial recovery.
Attorneys David Randolph Smith and David Anthony Smith Biking In Middle Tennessee
Bicycle Accident Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Sue For My Bicycle Accident?
If you were injured – or a family member was injured or killed – due to the negligence or fault of a motorist of other party, while riding a bicycle, you can bring a lawsuit against the negligent party to recover damages. As a matter of fact, if the at-fault party does not immediately accept responsibility we would file the lawsuit as soon as possible. If not, valuable time is wasted.
2. Who Are The Parties I Can Recover Damages From For My Injuries?
- Negligent drivers of automobiles, buses or trucks – if the accident was caused by the driver of a vehicle
- Negligent manufacturers or retailers of bicycles, bicycle parts, bicycle accessories and/or vehicles – if the accident was caused by a defective product
- The City, County or State who maintains the roads – if the accident is caused by a dangerous condition created by an unsafe roadway
- Negligent repair shops or mechanics – if the accident was caused by negligent repair of a vehicle or bicycle
- Dangerous condition of public property – if the accident happened due to negligent design, maintenance, or upkeep of public property – including construction, tree trimming, etc.
- Dangerous condition of private property – if the accident was caused by the negligent maintenance or upkeep of private property.
3. What Are My Rights And Responsibilities As A Bicycle Rider?
Tennessee law provides a bicycle rider with the same rights and responsibilities as an automobile or other vehicle operator. Therefore, the laws pertaining to bicycle riders fall within the Tennessee Code and an accident is handled similar to an automobile accident. Certain exceptions may apply if the bicycle is not actually being “ridden” at the time of the accident.
4. Are There Any Special Laws That Apply To Bicyclists?
The Tennessee Code does have some specific sections that apply only to bicycle riders. These laws not only protect a bicycle rider, but also set forth specific responsibilities and duties.
These laws include regulations on such topics as:
- Drinking or using drugs while riding
- Specifics on where the bicyclist may ride and at what speeds
- Specifics on the equipment a rider is required to have on their bicycle and on their person when riding
- The use of hand signals
- The use of bicycle lanes
- The number of riders allowed on a bicycle
- Specifics on the use of vehicle traffic and turn lanes.
5. Can I Be Found At Fault In My Bicycle Accident?
If a bicyclist violates the laws set forth for safe operation of a bicycle and that violation is found to be a contributing or causing factor of the accident, then the bicycle rider may be found at fault. If a bicycle rider is found to be operating their bicycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may be arrested for a DUI and can lose their driver’s license as well.
6. Have You Represented Bicycle Clients Where The Damages Were Not Caused By A Motor Vehicle?
Yes. Our bicycle law firm has and or is representing injured cyclists in the following situations:
- Dog Attacks: Loose dogs are a major hazard to cyclists. Dogs can knock a cyclist off his bicycle, causing serious injuries. State law requires dog owners to be on notice of a dog’s propensity to attack or to run off the property after cyclists or others who are passing by. The dog does not necessarily have to bite.
- Product Liability (bike, helmet, assembly): If some part of the bicycle gives way, causing or contributing to the crash, we will have the bicycle examined by an expert rather than a bicycle shop. We need to know if there was an equipment malfunction such as brake failure, failure of the pedal to release properly, etc.
- Motor Vehicle Harassment: Cyclists, particularly those wearing Spandex or Razors are frequently subject to harassment by drivers. Harassment ranges from shouting to cursing, buzzing (passing too closely) or throwing objects at the cyclist. Some states have passed laws specifically prohibiting harassment of cyclists and making certain harassing behavior criminal. If such behavior causes injury to the cyclist, there is coverage pursuant to the harassers homeowner’s insurance. Motor vehicle insurance policies exclude intentional acts. Throwing objects from cars at cyclists have been held not related to the operation of motor vehicles and are therefore not covered by auto insurance policies.
We’re Here to Help
As a victim of a bicycle/pedestrian accident you may be unable to work and support your family and may face years of rehabilitation. It is important to have an experienced and knowledgeable law firm representing you in your claim and against third parties. The Nashville personal injury lawyers at DRS Law have been representing those injured by drivers for over 30 years. We are available to assist clients throughout all of Tennessee including, but not limited to, Nashville, Murfreesboro, Lebanon, Gallatin, Clarksville, Chattanooga, Memphis, and all smaller cities and rural areas in the state.
Injuries from a Nashville Bicycle Accident, require a reliable personal injury law firm such as DRS Law to begin immediately protecting your rights. Our firm is extremely experienced and successful in obtaining compensation for bicycle accident victims. We have handled numerous lawsuits against negligent parties and have obtained millions of dollars on behalf of our clients.
A detailed free consultation with one of our Nashville Bike Accident Lawyers or pedestrian accident attorneys, puts a team of respected legal professionals, independent investigators and medical experts to evaluate your Nashville bike accident lawsuit immediately and confidentially.
Over $500 Million
Recovered Since 1993
We've Helped Thousands of People Just Like You
We are known for getting life-changing results and fighting to make our communities safer.
$10.7 Million
Wrongful Death Medical Malpractice
$3.5 Million
Confidential Settlement
Legal Malpractice
Why Choose Us As Your Nashville Bike Accident Attorney
With us on your side, you can focus on what’s most important – your recovery.
Decades Of Experience
Our Nashville attorneys have over 75 years of combined practice handling cases involving personal injury, medical malpractice, civil rights, medical device lawsuits, wrongful death, and much more.
Excellent Reputation
DRS Law is a well-respected law firm in Nashville and throughout the U.S. Founder, David Randolph Smith, has been selected as a Mid-South Super Lawyer, named one of the Top 100 attorneys in Tennessee in all fields of practice, and is included in the Best Lawyers in America guidebook.
Small Case Volume
Unlike many Nashville firms or lawyers that handle a large volume of cases, we concentrate our expertise on a select few cases. With this, our attorneys ensure that every step is taken to obtain the most favorable outcomes for our clients.
We Prepare For Trial
Every case is meticulously prepared for trial by our trial team and support staff in order to maximize the recovery for our client, whether by settlement or trial verdict. Our proven track record of success has resulted in multi-million-dollar settlements and judgments in a wide variety of individual and group cases.
What to Expect
Our Legal Services Are Completely Personalized To You And Your Unique Needs
01 Free Consultation
Our dedicated personal injury and accident lawyers provide free, no-pressure case evaluations. We will help you determine if you have a case and will answer all your questions in plain English. We never charge any fees until we win your case.
02 Personalized Service
If we take your case, it’s because we believe we can help you. We will get to work outlining a strategic plan of action. We want you to feel taken care of during this difficult time — whatever questions you have, we’re here with answers. Frequent check-ins ensure you are comfortable with the progress of your case.
03 You Get Paid
We are passionate about the success of your case and will give it the close attention and focus it deserves. We find solutions that other lawyers miss, discovering key facts that help you win. We call upon our gifts in storytelling to argue your case with passion and conviction so you get the compensation and justice you deserve.
What Our Clients Say
“The intellect combined with compassion of these people is incredible.”
I am very thankful to David, Lyon, Chris and all professionals who represent this firm. This team made an incredibly difficult situation end successfully. The intellect combined with compassion of these people is incredible. Our concerns were quickly and appropriately responded to, with knowledge and compassion. Law suits are very scary situations, but they never stopped communicating until I felt comfortable with the process. - K. Boland
“They were extremely thorough and caring through the entire experience.”
The DRS team was simply tremendous. They were extremely thorough and caring through the entire experience. I felt cared for the entire time. I will recommend them enthusiastically to anyone who ever needs legal help. - Dick K.
“Very professional and very hard working guys that I would suggest to anyone!”
Chris and the rest of the guys at the firm did an amazing job handling my case and making me feel like I was heard and important. Very professional and very hard working guys that I would suggest to anyone! - T. Sapp.
“They kept me in the loop every step of the way and made me feel like family.”
This is a wonderful law firm. They kept me in the loop every step of the way and made me feel like family. I would highly recommend! - David S.
“There are really no words to adequately describe how thankful we are.”
There are really no words to adequately describe how thankful we are for Lyon and the others at this law firm. The events that led us to reach out to your firm were one the worst times in our lives. My husband’s illness and long recovery were something that we were not sure we would ever come back from. Thanks to the hard work, knowledge and dedication that you guys have put forth on our behalf we have been awarded a settlement that will ensure we have a secure financial future. You guys are the best! - Lorrie H.
“The only attorney that would take our case.”
David Randolph Smith was the only attorney that would take our case. We were up against the US Government and Virginia’s state laws. Mr. Smith’s experience and expertise was the only reason we were able to get a settlement. He always answered our calls and kept us informed. Mr. and Mrs. Smith were very professional and nice. God sent this law firm to help us at a very sorrowful time. We were blessed for such a great law firm. If I ever need a lawyer, this firm would be first on my list. Thank you. — Vicky F.
“The end results gave me the justice and satisfaction I so desperately needed.”
Thru what was an absolute nightmare of an ordeal, I was finally blessed with the very best legal team a man could ever want or desire. I can’t even begin to express my overwhelming gratitude and sincere appreciation to my entire legal team. You are all of the very best at what you do, and the end results gave me the justice and satisfaction I so desperately needed. And it also gave me back my health and independence! On a scale to 1 and 10, I would give you give you a 12! God bless all of you from the bottom of my heart! - Darrell H.
“It made all the difference knowing that we were in competent hands.”
My wife and I couldn’t have had a better experience. The whole team was incredibly responsive, attentive, respectful, & friendly. Lyon took our case and you couldn’t ask for a better guy to have on your side. Not only was he super sharp and resourceful, but also the type of person that makes you feel like an old friend. Since we were seeking legal help for a very awful situation it made all the difference knowing that we were in competent hands the whole time. - Mark D.
“They always set realistic expectations and even surpassed them.”
It was a wonderful experience. Everyone we dealt with was attentive and responsive. They always set realistic expectations and even surpassed them. We are very happy we decided to use Smith and Associates. We highly recommend them. - Whitney G.