Bicycle Accident Lawyer Easley

Cyclists are some of the most vulnerable people on the road. When drivers fail to pay attention, the results can be catastrophic. If you’ve been hit while riding your bike, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries and other losses. At Mann, Blake & Jackson, we advocate for injured cyclists throughout Easley and the surrounding areas. A knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer from our team can investigate your case, deal with the insurance companies, and help you seek justice. Call us at 864-777-4262 for a free consultation and find out how we can support you on the road to recovery.

Rights Of Cyclists In South Carolina After An Accident

South Carolina’s mild climate and growing number of bike-friendly areas make cycling a popular choice for both recreation and transportation. But with more bikes on the road comes the increased risk of accidents. When a crash happens, many cyclists are unsure what steps to take—or what rights they have under South Carolina law. Understanding those rights can make a big difference in how your case is handled and whether you recover the compensation you’re entitled to.

Whether you were hit by a driver, injured due to a road hazard, or hurt in a collision with another cyclist or pedestrian, the legal protections available to you are clearer than you might think.

Cyclists Are Recognized as Legal Road Users

In South Carolina, bicyclists have the same legal rights and responsibilities as drivers. That means cyclists are entitled to use the road and must follow the same traffic rules—such as obeying stop signs and yielding the right-of-way where appropriate. It also means that if a motorist acts negligently—by speeding, texting, or failing to yield— and causes a crash, the cyclist has the right to pursue compensation just as a driver would.

The law recognizes that bicycles are vehicles. As such, drivers must treat cyclists with the same caution and respect they would give any other road user. Unfortunately, not all drivers understand this, and many accidents occur because motorists don’t look for bikes or assume they always have the right-of-way.

Common Causes of Bike Accidents in South Carolina

Cycling accidents can occur for many reasons, but some of the most common causes include:

• Motorists failing to yield at intersections

• Drivers turning in front of cyclists

• Cars drifting into bike lanes

• “Dooring” accidents when parked car doors open unexpectedly

• Distracted or impaired driving

• Poorly maintained roads or missing signage

• Aggressive driving or road rage incidents

When an accident happens, fault must be determined based on the circumstances. South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you’re partially at fault—as long as your share of the blame is 50% or less.

What To Do After a Bike Accident

The minutes and hours after a bicycle accident can be confusing and stressful. Here’s what cyclists should try to do if they’re physically able:

1. Call 911 – Always report the crash to law enforcement. This ensures the accident is documented, and emergency medical help can be sent if needed.

2. Get medical care – Even if you feel okay, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries are not immediately obvious, especially concussions or internal trauma.

3. Collect evidence – Take photos of your bike, the vehicle involved, the road conditions, and your injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information.

4. Get a copy of the police report – This will be important for your insurance claim and any legal case that follows.

5. Avoid giving statements to insurers right away – Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. It’s best to speak with a personal injury attorney before discussing your case with any insurance representative.

Understanding the Role of Fault in Your Claim

Proving fault is a critical part of any personal injury case, and bike accidents are no exception. In South Carolina, you must show that the other party acted negligently. That might mean proving a driver ran a red light, veered into a bike lane, or failed to yield at a crosswalk.

On the other hand, if you weren’t following traffic laws—for example, if you were riding against traffic or didn’t have lights at night—you could be found partially at fault. If you’re found to be more than 50% responsible for the accident, you won’t be able to recover damages.

Working with a personal injury attorney can help ensure your side of the story is presented accurately, and that all available evidence is gathered to support your claim.

Types of Compensation Cyclists May Recover

If you’re injured in a bicycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible for several forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses (past and future)

• Lost wages or loss of earning potential

• Pain and suffering

• Property damage (such as damage to your bicycle)

• Emotional distress

• Scarring or permanent disability

The amount you can recover will depend on the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and whether you were partially at fault.

What If the Driver Flees or Has No Insurance?

In some cases, the person responsible for the crash may flee the scene or be uninsured. South Carolina requires all auto insurance policies to include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can be used in hit-and-run cases or when the at-fault driver has no insurance. If you have your own auto insurance or live in a household with someone who does, you may still be covered under their UM policy—even though you were on a bicycle when the crash occurred.

This is another situation where having a lawyer can be extremely helpful. These types of claims can be complex, and insurers may dispute coverage unless the right evidence and documentation are submitted.

How Legal Representation Can Help

Many cyclists are hesitant to hire a lawyer, especially if they believe their injuries are minor or that the insurance company will handle everything fairly. But in practice, accident claims can quickly become complicated—especially when there’s disagreement over who was at fault or when injuries turn out to be more serious than they first appeared.

A personal injury attorney who understands the laws specific to cyclists and South Carolina accident claims can:

• Help you collect and preserve key evidence

• Deal with the insurance company on your behalf

• Ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time

• Negotiate for full and fair compensation

• Represent you in court if needed

Most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless your case is successful.

Getting hurt in a bicycle accident is never something you plan for, but knowing your rights can help you feel more in control during a difficult time. Cyclists in South Carolina have the same protections as other road users—and when someone else’s negligence causes harm, you’re entitled to hold them accountable.

Get the Legal Support You Need from a Bicycle Accident Attorney

If you’ve been injured while riding your bike, it’s important to have an experienced bicycle accident attorney who understands how these cases work. At Mann, Blake & Jackson, we help injured cyclists in Easley hold careless drivers accountable and pursue the compensation they need to heal. From investigating the accident to negotiating with insurers, we’ll handle the legal work while you focus on recovery. You shouldn’t have to fight this battle alone. Call 864-777-4262 today to schedule your free consultation with a knowledgeable attorney who will stand up for your rights every step of the way.