This page was written, edited, reviewed & approved by Justin C. Olsinski following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. Justin C. Olsinski, the Founding Partner, has 16+ years of legal experience as an attorney.
A bicycle accident can happen in just a few seconds but leave lasting injuries and major medical bills. Many crashes occur because drivers fail to follow North Carolina traffic laws or do not see cyclists on the road. Victims often suffer serious injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries that can change their lives completely.
The Olsinski Law Firm helps bicycle accident victims recover full compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, and lost income. Our experienced Charlotte bicycle accident lawyer knows how to prove driver negligence, handle insurance companies, and protect your rights under North Carolina law.
We handle each case with personal attention and care so you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal process for you.
Bicycle crashes happen on busy city streets, quiet neighborhoods, and even on designated bike lanes. Many result from unsafe driving, poor road design, or failure to follow bicycle safety measures.
Knowing the common causes helps cyclists and drivers stay alert and avoid preventable injuries. Our law firm helps injured riders understand their options and seek justice after an accident.
Cyclists in North Carolina have many of the same rights and duties as drivers of motor vehicles. However, they must also follow special safety rules set by the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
These laws are meant to protect both cyclists and motorists on roads, bike lanes, and shared paths.
Under N.C.G.S. § 20-171.1, cyclists must obey all traffic signs and lights. They must ride on the right side of the road and use proper lighting under N.C.G.S. § 20-129(e) when riding at night. These rules help prevent bicycle crashes and improve visibility for all road users.
According to N.C.G.S. § 20-150(e), drivers must give at least four feet of clearance when passing a cyclist. They must also yield at intersections and avoid sharp “right-hook” turns that endanger riders. Failing to do so can make drivers responsible for any resulting personal injury claim.
Under N.C.G.S. § 20-171.9, riders under 16 must wear helmets. Cyclists must also use reflectors and lamps when riding after dark. Wearing protective equipment like reflective gear can prevent head injuries and make cyclists more visible to others.
Under North Carolina’s contributory negligence doctrine, a cyclist who shares even 1% of fault may lose the right to recover damages. Insurance companies often use this rule to deny claims, which is why having an experienced Charlotte bicycle accident attorney can make a major difference in your case.
If you were hurt in a bicycle accident, you may qualify for financial compensation under North Carolina law. Damages can cover both your immediate and long-term losses. Working with a bicycle accident lawyer helps ensure that no cost (big or small) is overlooked during your claim.
Punitive damages may apply in cases involving reckless driving, drunk driving, or extreme negligence under N.C.G.S. § 1D-15. These damages punish wrongful conduct and discourage future careless behavior by drivers.
Our Charlotte bicycle accident lawyers are experienced in handling complex bicycle accident cases. We take time to investigate, gather medical records, and communicate directly with insurance adjusters.
The Olsinski Law Firm fights for fair compensation and holds negligent drivers accountable under North Carolina traffic laws.
We collect police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to understand how the bike accident happened. We also visit the accident scene to look for hazards such as potholes or missing signage.
Our team reviews medical records and photos of the injuries to show how serious the crash was. We make sure every small detail is documented so nothing is missed when proving what happened.
Our team works to show that the driver’s carelessness directly caused your injuries. We analyze forensic reports, driving records, and digital data from GPS or the vehicle’s systems when needed.
We talk to witnesses who saw the collision and use their statements to support your story. We make the case clear and simple so insurance companies and the court understand who was truly at fault.
We deal directly with insurance companies to prevent low settlement offers. We know how to fight tactics used to reduce your claim and make sure you get what you deserve. We review every insurance policy to find all possible coverage that applies to your injuries.
Our goal is to help you get fair payment for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering without added stress.
If fair compensation isn’t offered, our lawyers are ready to file a personal injury lawsuit in court. We handle all filings, court dates, and negotiations so you can focus on recovery. We prepare strong legal arguments and gather evidence to present in front of a judge or jury.
Our team stays by your side throughout the case to protect your rights and keep you informed every step of the way.
The at-fault driver’s insurance policy usually covers your medical bills and property damage. If they are uninsured, your own auto insurance may help through uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Riders under 16 must wear a helmet by law. However, all cyclists are strongly encouraged to wear one for safety.
Under North Carolina’s contributory negligence laws, even small blame can hurt your case. A bicycle accident attorney can gather proof to defend you and show that the driver was at fault.
Yes. If poor road design or maintenance led to your injury, you may have a claim against the city or property owner responsible for the hazard.
In most cases, the statute of limitations gives you three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury claim in North Carolina.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, you don’t have to handle the legal process alone. The Olsinski Law Firm provides personalized legal help for injured cyclists across Charlotte and the surrounding areas. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Our Charlotte bicycle accident lawyers are ready to listen, explain your options, and build a strong case for maximum compensation. Contact us today or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free initial consultation and learn how we can help you move forward after a serious crash.
Mr. Olsinski founded his criminal defense practice in Charlotte, NC, in January 2010. He has successfully defended cases ranging from B1 Felony First Degree Sex Offenses/First Degree Murder to Misdemeanor marijuana charges.
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