The #1 St. Louis Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Meet Our St Louis Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Eric Terry leads the St. Louis bicycle accident team at TorHoerman Law (THL).

Specializing in motor vehicle accidents, Eric is known for his meticulous approach to representing clients who have been injured due to the negligence of others.

His leadership ensures that each client receives not only personalized attention but also a strong legal strategy focused on the unique challenges that bicycle accident cases present.

At TorHoerman Law, we take a collaborative approach to personal injury cases, particularly those involving vulnerable cyclists.

Rather than assigning just one attorney, we create a team with diverse legal strengths, ensuring every angle of your case is covered.

Each attorney contributes specific expertise, from handling complex medical documentation to reconstructing accident scenes.

This teamwork-driven approach gives you comprehensive and effective legal representation, tailored to meet the complexities of your bicycle accident case.

Bike accident lawyers at TorHoerman Law other than Eric include:

• Steve Davis
• Ken Brennan
• Chad Finley
• Tyler Schneider
• Alexis Robinson

Our Founder: Tor Hoerman

Tor Hoerman is the founder of TorHoerman Law.

An experienced St Louis personal injury attorney with over 20 years of experience, Tor has dedicated his career to advocating for individuals harmed by the negligence of others.

His commitment to justice has led him to take on some of the largest corporations and hold them accountable for dangerous products, corporate negligence, and public health threats.

Tor’s work has resulted in billions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for clients across various cases, including high-profile pharmaceutical and toxic tort litigations.

He is deeply respected in the legal community for his dedication and skill.

Tor’s passion for helping others has shaped the firm’s mission and fuels the compassionate, client-centered approach that defines TorHoerman Law.

His leadership continues to inspire the THL team to work tirelessly in securing justice and fair compensation for all clients.

What to Do After a Bike Accident Involving a Car in St. Louis

Experiencing a bicycle collision involving a car can be overwhelming and traumatic, often leaving victims unsure of their next steps.

Knowing what actions to take immediately after an accident can help protect your health, preserve critical evidence, and support any future legal claims.

Because cyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, even minor collisions with motor vehicles can lead to serious injuries, making it essential to seek medical attention and document the incident thoroughly.

If you’ve been involved in a bike accident, taking certain steps can significantly strengthen your case and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide on what to do after a bike accident with a car in St. Louis:

1. Ensure Safety and Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Move out of harm’s way, if possible, to prevent further injuries. Even if you feel fine, seek medical evaluation promptly to document any hidden or delayed injuries.
2. Call the Police and Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement so that an official report is filed, which will document the accident and can serve as key evidence in your case.
3. Exchange Information with the Driver: Gather the driver’s contact information, license plate number, and insurance details. This information will be essential for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.
4. Document the Accident Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, your bike, the car involved, any visible injuries, and surrounding road conditions. These visuals can provide powerful evidence when reconstructing the incident.
5. Gather Witness Contact Information: If there were witnesses to the accident, obtain their names and contact information. Witness statements can help support your version of events and may be valuable in a legal case.
6. Avoid Admitting Fault or Making Statements to Insurance Adjusters: Be cautious with what you say at the scene and to any insurance representatives afterward. Avoid making statements that could imply fault, as these can affect your claim later.
7. Seek Follow-Up Medical Care: Some injuries may take time to manifest, so attending follow-up appointments ensures that any delayed symptoms are documented. Comprehensive medical records can also strengthen your case.
8. Contact a St. Louis Bicycle Accident Lawyer: Consult an experienced bicycle accident attorney who can evaluate your case, guide you through the legal process, and work to secure compensation for your injuries and losses.
9. Notify Your Insurance Provider: Report the accident to your insurance company, providing only factual information. Your attorney can help you navigate discussions with insurance adjusters.
10. Keep a Record of All Accident-Related Expenses: Document all costs related to the accident, including medical bills, bike repairs, and lost wages. This information will be critical when calculating damages for your case.

By following these steps after a bike accident involving a car, you can safeguard your health and protect your rights as you pursue recovery and justice.

If you’ve been severely injured and are unable to complete these steps on your own, prioritize getting immediate medical attention and focusing on your recovery.

Family members or loved ones can help by gathering information, documenting the accident scene, and connecting with a lawyer on your behalf.

An experienced St. Louis bicycle accident attorney can handle much of the evidence gathering, insurance discussions, and legal preparations, allowing you to focus on healing.

Remember, your health is the top priority, and professional support is available to handle your case even if you’re unable to manage them personally.

What Laws are Relevant to St Louis Bicycle Accidents?

Bicyclists in Missouri have specific rights and responsibilities designed to improve safety and foster cooperation with motor vehicle traffic.

Understanding St Louis bicycle laws can help prevent accidents and ensure cyclists know their right to the road, as well as the safety measures they must follow.

For bicycle accident cases in St. Louis, several Missouri laws help define cyclists’ rights and responsibilities on the road, as well as the obligations of drivers around cyclists:

1. Right to the Roadway: Missouri law grants cyclists the right to ride on most roads, except where specifically prohibited. Cyclists are required to ride as close to the right side of the road as is safely possible, but they may take the lane if conditions (like narrow lanes) make it unsafe to share the road with a vehicle (RSMo 307.190)​
2. Safe Passing Law: Motorists must maintain a safe distance when overtaking bicycles, leaving enough clearance until safely past. Failure to do so is considered a violation, and if it leads to an accident, the motorist may face penalties (RSMo 304.678)
3. Equipment Requirements: Cyclists must have a white front light and a red rear reflector when riding after sunset and before sunrise, along with brakes that allow the bike to stop within 25 feet at 10 mph. These requirements aim to improve safety and visibility (RSMo 307.183, 307.185)
4. Sidewalk and Crosswalk Rules: In general, Missouri allows bicycles on sidewalks outside business districts, but cyclists must yield to pedestrians and provide an audible signal before passing (RSMo 300.347)
5. Helmet Recommendations: While not required by state law, some municipalities in Missouri encourage or mandate helmets for cyclists under a certain age to improve safety outcomes in case of accidents.

Understanding these laws can help cyclists and motor vehicle drivers alike make informed choices, reducing risks and fostering safer interactions on the road.

For more details on Missouri’s bicycle laws, check Missouri’s state or municipal traffic ordinances.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Bicycle accidents often lead to a wide range of injuries due to the limited protection that a bike provides compared to a motor vehicle.

Bicycle injuries can vary in severity from minor scrapes to life-altering conditions and often result from high-impact collisions with cars, falls, or sudden obstacles on the road.

Many of these injuries require extensive recovery periods and may impact a victim’s physical abilities, daily activities, and quality of life.

Understanding the types of injuries common in bicycle accidents can help victims and their families seek appropriate medical care and legal assistance.

Below are some of the most common injuries associated with bicycle accidents:

• Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries: Includes concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injury (TBI), often caused by high-impact falls or collisions with vehicles. These injuries can have lasting effects on cognitive abilities and quality of life.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Cyclists frequently suffer fractures, especially in the arms, wrists, and collarbones, from trying to break their fall. These injuries may require surgery and extensive physical therapy.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: High-speed or direct-impact collisions can damage the spine, sometimes leading to partial or complete paralysis. Spinal injuries can have severe, lifelong implications for mobility and function.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Road rash, bruises, and muscle strains are common, especially when a cyclist is thrown from the bike. While often less severe, these injuries can still be painful and require medical treatment.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, including punctured lungs or liver damage, can result from a high-impact crash. These injuries may be life-threatening and necessitate immediate medical intervention.
• Emotional Trauma and PTSD: Beyond physical injuries, bicycle accidents can lead to significant emotional distress, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), especially in severe or life-threatening incidents.

If you’ve suffered injuries due to the negligence of distracted drivers or through other forms of driver negligence, you may be eligible to seek compensation through a bicycle injury claim.

Contact a St. Louis Bike Accident Lawyer from TorHoerman Law for a free case evaluation.

We are here to help you.

Common Causes of Bicycle Injuries

Bicycle injuries in St. Louis can result from a range of factors, often related to interactions with motor vehicles or roadway conditions.

Cyclists face unique risks due to their lack of physical protection, making them particularly vulnerable in the event of a collision or fall.

Knowing the common causes of bicycle injuries can help both cyclists and drivers take preventative measures to reduce accidents.

Below are some of the most frequent causes of bicycle injuries:

• Driver Distractions: Distracted driving can easily lead to dangerous collisions involving cyclists. Common distractions, such as cell-phone usage, increase the risk of sideswipes or rear-end accidents with bikes.
• Failure to Yield: Many bicycle accidents occur at intersections when drivers fail to yield to cyclists, misjudging their speed or right of way. This can lead to T-bone or broadside accidents, especially in busy intersections.
• Opening Car Doors (“Dooring”): Drivers or passengers opening car doors without checking for cyclists can result in cyclists colliding with the door, often causing serious injuries. This is particularly common on streets where bikes share lanes with parked cars.
• Unsafe Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, potholes, debris, or inadequate signage can cause cyclists to lose control and crash. These hazards are especially dangerous at night or in poor weather, when visibility is reduced.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or icy roads can make it difficult for cyclists to maneuver safely and for drivers to see cyclists. Wet or slick road surfaces increase the risk of skidding or losing control.

The Legal Process for Bicycle Accident Claims in St Louis

Bicycle accident claims in St. Louis involve a structured legal process to help victims seek compensation for injuries and damages.

Missouri’s personal injury laws allow cyclists who are injured due to someone else’s negligence to pursue claims for both economic damages, like medical bills and lost wages, and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering.

Typically, cases are filed in the Circuit Court of St. Louis City or St. Louis County, where knowledge of local court procedures can be advantageous.

Missouri follows a comparative fault rule, meaning that if the cyclist is partially at fault, their compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault, but they can still recover damages as long as they are less than 100% at fault.

The following steps outline the general legal process for pursuing a bicycle accident claim in St. Louis:

1. Seek Medical Attention and Document Injuries: Immediately after an accident, obtaining medical care and keeping thorough records of your injuries is essential. Documentation will serve as critical evidence in showing the extent of harm and connecting it to the accident.
2. Consult a Bicycle Accident Attorney: Working with a personal injury attorney familiar with Missouri’s laws, such as comparative fault (RSMo 537.765), will help you understand your claim. An attorney can assess your case, advise on legal options, and communicate with the negligent driver’s insurance company on your behalf.
3. File an Insurance Claim: After consulting an attorney, file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance provider. Your attorney will handle communications and negotiations with the insurance company to seek fair compensation for damages.
4. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: The attorney will investigate the accident thoroughly, collecting police reports, witness statements, video evidence, and expert evaluations. This step is crucial in building a case to prove liability and substantiate claims of damages.
5. Filing the Lawsuit: If the insurance company does not offer a fair settlement, your attorney will file a personal injury lawsuit. Missouri’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is five years (RSMo 516.120), meaning that you must file within this timeframe to retain your right to compensation.
6. Discovery Phase: During discovery, both parties exchange evidence and information relevant to the case. This stage may involve depositions, interrogatories, and document requests, allowing each side to build its arguments for trial.
7. Settlement Negotiations or Mediation: Most cases are settled out of court. Attorneys will continue negotiations with the insurance company, sometimes engaging in mediation to reach an agreement. Mediation can be a beneficial step as it often resolves cases without the need for a trial.
8. Trial (If Necessary): If settlement negotiations are unsuccessful, the case will go to trial. Here, both parties present evidence and arguments, and a judge or jury will determine the outcome and award damages.
9. Collection of Compensation: Once a favorable verdict or settlement is reached, the attorney will assist in collecting the compensation awarded. This may involve negotiating payment terms with the insurance company or enforcing the judgment if payment is delayed.

Each case is unique, and working with an experienced bicycle accident attorney who understands Missouri’s laws can be instrumental in achieving a successful outcome.

This structured approach to claims helps ensure that victims receive the support they need for a full and fair recovery.

Do You Qualify for a Bicycle Accident Claim?

Bicycle collisions can profoundly disrupt lives, often leaving victims with serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain.

When drivers violate traffic laws—such as failing to yield, distracted driving, or speeding—they endanger the safety of cyclists who rely on others to respect the rules of the road.

For those injured through no fault of their own, a personal injury case can offer a path toward compensation, helping to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages that arise from the accident.

If you’ve been injured in a St Louis bicycle crash at no fault of your own, you may be eligible to pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.

Contact the experienced St Louis Bicycle Accident Attorneys at TorHoerman Law for a free initial consultation.

Use the chatbot on this page for a free case review to find out if you qualify for a personal injury claim instantly.

An experienced bicycle accident lawyer can hep bicycle accident victims through the legal process, completing the important steps of gathering evidence and assessing damages.

Gathering Evidence for Bicycle Accident Claims

Evidence is highly important in personal injury cases, especially those involving injured cyclists.

Clear, convincing evidence is crucial for proving liability and the extent of damages in a bicycle accident claim.

Strong evidence helps build a case showing how the accident occurred, who was at fault, and the full impact of injuries on the victim’s life.

Types of evidence commonly used in bicycle accident claims include:

• Police Reports: Official records of the accident, detailing the incident, parties involved, and any citations issued, provide a foundational summary of events.
• Medical Records: Documentation of injuries, treatments, and prognosis connects the accident to the injuries sustained and helps assess damages.
• Witness Statements: Accounts from individuals who saw the accident unfold can provide unbiased perspectives on how it happened and who was at fault.
• Photographic Evidence: Photos of the accident scene, damaged property, and injuries help illustrate the aftermath and contribute to establishing liability.
• Traffic Camera or Surveillance Footage: Video evidence can be instrumental in capturing the exact moment of the accident, supporting claims of fault.
• Bicycle and Vehicle Damage Assessments: Assessments of the damage to the bicycle and vehicle involved can further clarify the severity of the collision and its impact.

Collecting and preserving this evidence can significantly improve the chances of a successful personal injury claim for an injured cyclist.

Assessing Damages in a Bicycle Accident Claim

In a legal context, “damages” refer to the financial compensation sought to cover losses and hardships resulting from an accident.

In a bicycle accident claim, damages encompass both tangible expenses, like medical bills, and intangible impacts, such as pain and suffering.

Properly assessing damages is essential, as it ensures that all losses—immediate and long-term—are accounted for in a claim.

Types of damages commonly assessed in bicycle accident claims include:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing treatment required as a result of the accident.
• Lost Wages: Recovery for lost income due to time away from work, as well as potential future income if injuries affect earning capacity.
• Property Damage: Costs associated with repairing or replacing the damaged bicycle and any other personal property affected in the accident.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages awarded for physical pain and emotional distress experienced due to the accident and injuries.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for any reduction in quality of life or ability to engage in activities enjoyed before the accident.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: Damages that reflect the long-term impact of serious injuries, including mobility restrictions or visible scars.

Assessing these damages thoroughly can help victims pursue the full compensation they need for recovery and stability.

TorHoerman Law: Your Experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle crash at no fault of your own, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers are prepared to help you.

Our personal injury lawyers have decades of experience seeking compensation for people injured in serious accidents at no fault of their own.

We understand the unique challenges that cyclists face on the road, and we’re dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable.

From collecting evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, we handle every detail of your case so that you can focus on your recovery.

Our team will advocate for your right to fair compensation, addressing both immediate and long-term needs like medical expenses and lost wages.

We believe that every injured cyclist deserves comprehensive legal support and compassionate guidance through each stage of the process.

Contact us today for a free consultation. 

Use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for a St Louis Bicycle Accident Claim instantly.