Most people are surprised to learn how frequently bicycle accidents occur -- and how serious they often are. In 2006, more than 770 cyclists were killed, and another 44,000 injured, in traffic crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). While cyclists accounted for 2 percent of all traffic fatalities, they accounted for 13 percent of all non-occupant deaths.

According to the NHTSA's 2006 data, cycling fatalities occurred more frequently in urban areas (73 percent of all deadly accidents); at non-intersection locations (68 percent); between the hours of 5 pm and 9 pm (27 percent); and during the summer months of June, July, and August (33 percent). Alcohol use (either by the cyclist or another driver involved in the accident) was reported in more than one-third of all fatal crashes. The overwhelming majority (88 percent) of cyclists who are killed were male.

The most important -- and effective -- safety measure a bicyclist can take is to wear a helmet. When properly fitted and used, helmets save lives, and prevent head injuries. It is also essential to follow the same rules of the road that apply to all drivers -- and because bicycle accidents all too frequently are the result of someone else's negligence, keep a sharp eye for potential hazards, including dangerous driving by others. Cyclists should use designated bicycle paths whenever possible; and when not possible, ride in the same direction as traffic. Wearing fluorescent or brightly colored clothing is also advised: It will help other drivers see you. Finally, when cycling at night, be sure to use a front light and red reflector, and flashing rear lights -- all available from local bicycle shops.

Injured cyclists may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage (in particular, damage to the bicycle) resulting from the incident, and pain and suffering. Victims who are permanently disabled may be able to recover for lost future earnings, as well as their long-term medical care.

As bicycle accidents are often caused by negligent drivers -- whether they are behind the wheel of a car, truck, motorcycle, or van – who are covered by insurance policies, victims frequently find themselves pitted against litigation-savvy insurers. These companies have the resources and experience to wage a full-scale legal defense -- particularly if the injuries were severe and a recovery, if obtained, would be substantial. Fortunately, a law firm that is itself experienced in these cases is in the best position to beat back the insurers -- and make sure that settlements and jury awards don't get scaled back.

At Mary Alexander & Associates, we've been taking on large insurers for more than a quarter of a century. We know the tactics, ploys, and delays they can, and do, muster. And we know how to overcome them. Time and again we've beaten insurers at their own game, using our expertise and drive to get our clients the compensation, and the accountability, to which they are entitled.

It’s simple: Unless we recover a financial award or settlement, you don’t pay us anything. That’s because we handle bicycle accident cases on a contingent-fee basis. In short, the risk is all ours: You pay us only if we’re successful. Expenses work the same way. We pay all the costs of the litigation and are reimbursed only if we obtain a settlement or jury award. Think of it this way: It may be your lawsuit, but it’s always our risk. That’s why you can be assured that if we take your case, it’s because we fully intend to win.