Great Falls Bicycle Accident Attorney

Injured While Riding Your Bike in Great Falls, MT?

Riding a bicycle is an excellent way to commute, exercise, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes around Great Falls. Unfortunately, even the most cautious cyclists face serious risks when sharing the road with negligent drivers. When a motorist fails to follow traffic laws, the results can be devastating for a bicyclist. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident caused by a careless driver, Hoyt & Blewett PLLC is here to help. Our Great Falls bicycle accident lawyers fight to hold negligent parties accountable and help victims recover the compensation they deserve.

Call (406) 233-1302 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.

Montana Bicycle Laws

Montana has specific laws to protect cyclists and ensure safe interactions between bicycles and motor vehicles. Understanding these laws can help determine fault in an accident case.

Some important bicycle laws in Montana include:

• Right to the Road – Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers.
• Lane Positioning – Cyclists should ride as far to the right as practicable, except when passing, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding hazards.
• Lighting and Equipment – At night, bicycles must have a white front light visible from at least 500 feet and a red rear reflector visible from 600 feet.
• Helmet Use – While Montana does not have a statewide helmet law for adults, wearing one greatly reduces the risk of severe head injury.
• Passing Laws – Drivers must maintain a safe distance when overtaking a cyclist, typically at least three feet.

Violations of these laws by motorists can directly contribute to accidents, making them liable for resulting injuries.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Negligent drivers are one of the leading causes of bicycle accidents in Great Falls. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving – Texting, eating, or adjusting GPS while driving reduces a motorist’s attention and reaction time.
• Failure to Yield – Drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way to cyclists at intersections or crosswalks often cause serious collisions.
• Unsafe Passing – Passing too closely or cutting off a cyclist is extremely dangerous and illegal.
• Speeding – Higher speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of injuries in a crash.
• Dooring Incidents – When a driver opens a car door into the path of a bicyclist without checking, the cyclist may have no time to avoid impact.
• Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, putting everyone on the road at risk.

Identifying the cause of the accident is critical to building a strong legal claim.

Common Types of Bike Accident Injuries

Bicyclists have little protection against the force of a collision with a motor vehicle, which often results in severe injuries. Common injuries include:

• Head and Brain Injuries – Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
• Fractures and Broken Bones – Arms, legs, collarbones, and ribs are particularly vulnerable.
• Spinal Cord Injuries – These can lead to partial or complete paralysis and lifelong disability.
• Road Rash – Severe abrasions from sliding across pavement can require extensive medical treatment.
• Internal Injuries – Damage to organs, internal bleeding, and other life-threatening conditions may occur.

These injuries often lead to high medical bills, lost wages, and long-term recovery needs, making legal representation essential.

Compensation from a Bike Accident Claim

If a negligent driver caused your bicycle accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your losses. As your Great Falls bicycle accident attorney, Hoyt & Blewett PLLC will aggressively pursue damages such as:

• Medical Expenses – Hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and future medical needs.
• Lost Wages – Income lost due to time away from work and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering – Physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life.
• Property Damage – Repair or replacement of your bicycle and any damaged personal property.
• Wrongful Death Damages – If the accident resulted in a loved one’s death, we can seek funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other related damages.

Our team will gather evidence, interview witnesses, work with accident reconstruction experts, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Bicycle Accident FAQs

How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Montana?

In most cases, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Montana is three years from the date of the accident. It’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Montana follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover compensation if you are less than 51% at fault, but your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Will the driver’s insurance cover my injuries?

If the driver was at fault, their liability insurance should cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so having a skilled attorney is crucial.

Do I need a lawyer for a bicycle accident claim?

While you can file a claim on your own, an experienced attorney can significantly improve your chances of securing full compensation. We handle all negotiations, paperwork, and legal strategy so you can focus on recovery.

How much does it cost to hire Hoyt & Blewett PLLC?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees. We only get paid if we win your case.

Contact a Great Falls Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, don’t try to navigate the legal process alone. The sooner you speak with a skilled Great Falls bicycle accident attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case.

At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, we are committed to protecting the rights of injured cyclists in Great Falls and throughout Montana. We will fight for the compensation you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

Contact us today at (406) 233-1302 for a free consultation.