When a Ride Turns Into a Serious Injury

Cyclists are among the most vulnerable people on the road. Without the protection of a vehicle, even a low-speed collision can cause severe injuries. Many bicycle accident victims suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, road rash, or permanent mobility limitations that affect daily life and the ability to work.

After a crash, injured cyclists are often met with unfair assumptions. Drivers and insurance companies may claim the cyclist was not visible, was riding too fast, or failed to follow traffic rules. These early narratives can shape the claim if they go unchallenged. Working with experienced bicycle accident attorneys in Cleveland, OH helps ensure that the focus stays where it belongs—on the driver’s conduct and the conditions that caused the crash.

The Stuckey Firm works with you, not just for you. We take time to understand how the accident has affected your life and build a strategy centered on your recovery and long-term stability. You do not have to fight insurers while trying to recover; we take that on for you so you can focus on caring for yourself and your family.

What Is a Bicycle Accident Claim?

A bicycle accident claim is a personal injury claim brought when a cyclist is injured due to a driver’s negligence or other unsafe conditions. These cases often involve distracted driving, failure to yield, unsafe passing, speeding, opening car doors into bike lanes, or ignoring traffic signals. Compensation in a bicycle accident claim may include medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.

Some bicycle accidents also involve dangerous road design, poor visibility, or construction hazards. Ohio negligence laws govern how fault is evaluated and how compensation is determined.

The Ohio Revised Code outlines the duties drivers owe to cyclists and the legal framework applied in these claims.

How a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Helps Protect Your Claim

  • Establishing Fault Clearly: Bicycle accident cases often involve disputes about who had the right of way or whether the cyclist contributed to the crash. A bicycle accident attorney gathers police reports, witness statements, video footage, scene evidence, and expert input to establish liability.
  • Documenting Serious Injuries: Bicycle injuries are often severe, even when the crash appears minor. Legal representation helps document medical treatment, future care needs, lost income, and the full impact on daily life.
  • Countering Blame-Shifting: Insurers frequently attempt to blame cyclists for their own injuries. A thorough legal approach challenges these assumptions and focuses on driver negligence and roadway safety.
  • Trial-Ready Leverage When Necessary: Some bicycle accident claims resolve through negotiation. Others require litigation when insurers deny fault or undervalue injuries. Trial-ready preparation strengthens your position and protects your options.

We are always trial-ready, but many cases settle once the pressure is on.

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Available 24/7 (216) 425-0336

Do I Need a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Cleveland?

You should consider legal guidance if you were injured in a bicycle crash that required medical care, caused missed work, or resulted in ongoing pain or limitations. Legal help is especially important if the driver denied responsibility, left the scene, or if the insurance company pressured you to settle quickly.

Bicycle accident claims often depend on evidence that can disappear fast, such as surveillance footage, vehicle data, or witness recollections. Speaking with Cleveland bicycle accident lawyers early can make a significant difference, even if you are unsure how serious the case may be. Head injuries, spinal injuries, and fractures can have long-term effects that are not immediately obvious.

Cases Won Real Outcomes for Real People

$3.6 Million

Retained by a family who were in disbelief of the news reports...

Retained by a family who were in disbelief of the news reports that characterized their elderly father as a reckless motorcyclist. After a complex accident reconstruction identified the negligence of multiple parties, the case was settled during a second private mediation.

Motorcycle Accident | Marysville, Ohio

$1.6 Million

The primary harm in this case was residual scarring and deformity as...

The primary harm in this case was residual scarring and deformity as a result of the injury. Unfortunately, Ohio has a cap of $250,000 for non-economic damages, with no exceptions, for cases against political subdivisions. Through a comprehensive case work up and well versed arguments presenting a real threat to challenging the constitutionality of caps on damages, we were able to negotiate a higher settlement than what was provided under the law.

Pedestrian Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$1.3 Million

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to...

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left, causing a serious collision with three young adult siblings.  TSF was engaged to serve as local counsel to assist with the litigation, mediation, and resolution of the case.

Truck Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$600,000

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to...

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left and turned in front of a motorcyclist, causing serious injury. An accident reconstructionist was retained to disprove inflammatory witness accounts of speed, as motorcyclists are commonly accused of speeding due to the sound of their bike. 

Motorcycle Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$500,000

Inexperienced driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic...

Inexperienced driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left, causing a serious collision with an oncoming motorist. Client sustained serious injuries requring extensive hospitalization and rehab.  He and his wife heavily relied upon counsel to guide them through the maze of medical bills and insurance claims so they could focus on healing and recovery.  Settlement was further maximized through negotiations with multiple lienholders.

Car Accident | Galion, Ohio

$135,000

Dog bit nose of adult visitor to home.  Retained plastic surgery expert...

Dog bit nose of adult visitor to home.  Retained plastic surgery expert to demonstrate permanency of scarring to enhance case value

Dog Bite | Marysville, Ohio

$100,000

At-fault driver failed to yield on a left hand turn, causing crash...

At-fault driver failed to yield on a left hand turn, causing crash and injury to college aged passenger. Policy limits settlement offer obtained despite minimal medical treatment options and $5,000 in medical bills. Client was unsure how to protect her concern for permanent injury and retained counsel to help her obtain expert testimony to document permanent injury to justify the policy limits settlement.

Car Accident | Mentor, Ohio
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Bicycle Accident Case What to Expect

Step One: Initial Review and Early Protection

We begin by listening to what happened and reviewing your injuries, medical treatment, and current limitations. We provide early guidance on documentation and insurance communication to protect your claim from the start.

Step Two: Investigation and Evidence Collection

We gather crash reports, witness statements, photographs, medical records, and proof of lost income. When available, we pursue video footage and evaluate roadway conditions, bike lane design, visibility, and traffic control.

Step Three: Claim Development

Once the full scope of your injuries is clear, we prepare a demand reflecting medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impact. The claim is built around evidence and your recovery goals, not insurer timelines.

Step Four: Negotiation or Litigation

Some bicycle accident claims resolve through settlement. Others require litigation when fault is disputed or injuries are minimized. We prepare every case with trial readiness so your rights remain protected.

Why Bicycle Accident Claims Are Often Challenged

Cyclists are frequently blamed for crashes, even when drivers violate traffic laws. Insurers may argue the cyclist was difficult to see, riding unpredictably, or outside a designated lane. These defenses are common and often unfair, which is why early investigation and documentation matter.

Bicycle safety is a growing concern nationwide. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides public information on bicycle crash risks, including driver behavior and roadway factors that contribute to serious injuries. This context supports why bicycle accident claims require careful handling and should not be dismissed as minor incidents. Some cases also involve uninsured or underinsured drivers, which can complicate recovery. In those situations, your own insurance coverage may become part of the claim strategy.

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“The Stuckey Firm was there for me every step of the way. They explained everything clearly, checked in often, and made sure I felt supported throughout the process.”

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Meet Your Ohio Personal Injury Attorneys

Proven Leaders in Ohio Personal Injury Law

Our team of local attorneys were hand-selected for their experience and leadership in client service, top legal organizations, and our communities.

Founder

Nathan J. Stuckey

  • Immediate Past President of Ohio Association for Justice
  • The National Trial Lawyers, Top 100
  • Ohio Super Lawyers
Read Nathan's Bio

Partner

Sydney S. McLafferty

  • Past President, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Active Member, American Association of Justice
  • National Women’s Trial Lawyers, Top 25
Read Sydney's Bio

Partner

J. Michael Vervoort

  • Board Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, American Association for Justice
  • Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys
Read Michael's Bio

Attorney

Paul (PJ) Jacob Ratcliffe

  • Member, West Virginia Association for Justice
  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, American Association for Justice
Read Paul's Bio

Attorney

Christian W. Sorg

  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, Clark County Bar Association
  • Founding Board Member, Recon & Sniper Foundation
Read Christian's Bio

Attorney

James E. Heath

  • Past President, Clark County Bar Association
  • Board Member, Clark County Sportsman’s Club
  • Former Captian, U.S. Army JAG Corps
Read James's Bio

Of Counsel

Christian R. Patno

  • Of Counsel
  • President, American Board of Trial Advocates
  • Fellow, Litigation Counsel of America
Read Christian's Bio

Why Choose The Stuckey Firm?

A Client-First, Attorney-Driven Practice

The Stuckey Firm is a client-first personal injury firm built on collaboration and trust. We work with you so you understand the process and stay informed at every stage.

Thorough, Trial-Ready Preparation

Bicycle accident cases often require strong evidence to overcome bias against cyclists. We prepare cases with detailed investigation and trial readiness when necessary.

Credibility That Supports Fair Outcomes

Our attorneys are respected statewide for bringing well-prepared and principled claims. That credibility matters when insurers attempt to undervalue injuries or shift blame. You deserve a legal team that treats your injuries seriously and builds your claim with care and purpose.

Bicycle Accident Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do after a bicycle accident?

Seek medical care immediately and report the crash to law enforcement. If possible, document the scene, gather witness information, and avoid giving recorded statements to insurers before speaking with a lawyer.

What if the driver fled the scene?

You may still have legal options. These cases often involve uninsured motorist coverage. An attorney can help identify coverage and pursue recovery.

How long does a bicycle accident case take?

Timelines vary depending on injury severity and whether liability is disputed. Some cases resolve in months, while others take longer if litigation is required.

Can I recover compensation if the driver says I caused the crash?

Possibly. Fault depends on the full circumstances, including driver behavior, traffic laws, and road conditions. A bicycle accident lawyer can help investigate and challenge unfair blame.

How are bicycle accident injuries valued?

Claims are evaluated based on medical costs, lost income, future care needs, and how the injury affects daily life. Bicycle injuries are often severe and long-lasting.

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Get Help After a Bicycle Accident

If you were injured while riding your bike and are unsure what to do next, help is available. Contact The Stuckey Firm to schedule a confidential consultation and speak with a bike wreck lawyer in Cleveland who will provide clear guidance and steady support.

Talk With a Local Attorney Get a Free Case Review

If you’re unsure what to do next, we’re here to listen and help you understand your options

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