Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Richmond, VA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Richmond, Virginia?

  The non-emergency contact number of the local police in Richmond is (804) 646-5100.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Richmond, Virginia?

  You can get a copy of a police report at Window 4 of the Richmond police headquarters. If unable to do so, you can also fill out a request form: https://www.rva.gov/sites/default/files/2021-03/RecordRequest.pdf. Mail it to this address:

  RPD Records Unit 200 W. Grace St. Richmond, VA 23220 If you have any questions, please call the Central Records Unit at (804) 646-6715.

• Are there safety policies for bicyclists in Richmond?

  Yes. Virginia, where Richmond is located, is one of the 35 states that has enforced safe passing laws to protect bicyclists from side-swipe collisions. Until July 2021, overtaking motorists were required to keep a three-foot distance from bicycles. Drivers of motor vehicles must now change lanes when overtaking cyclists. Two people can also ride a bicycle beside each other, such as a parent and a child, whether they are riding on local or state roads.

• Why are bicyclists prone to getting serious injuries when they get into an accident in Richmond?

  Bicycles generally lack the physical protection afforded to other motor vehicles. Since bicycles are lightweight and do not have a metal encasement, cyclists are easily thrown off when they get into an accident. Cyclists in Richmond may sustain severe harm, including spinal cord damage, broken bones, and facial, neck, and traumatic brain injuries.

• Should cyclists in Richmond ride with both hands on the handlebars?

  According to Virginia Code §46.2-906, bicycle riders in Richmond do not need to keep two hands on the handlebars at all times. They are allowed to use just one hand to operate the bicycle. The law prohibits bicycle riders from carrying items that will cause them to completely lose their grip on the handlebars.

• Other than the at-fault motorist, whom can you sue for damages in a Richmond bicycle accident?

  If other factors contributed to your accident in Richmond, such as poorly maintained roads, you can sue other parties. In this case, the city government is a potential at-fault party. Commercial establishments crowding the roadways and causing heavy traffic may be liable for an accident. You can also file a lawsuit against manufacturers of defective bicycle parts. Negligence is unique in every case; it is best to consult a lawyer.

• Are you required to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle in Richmond?

  No, you are not required to wear a bicycle helmet in Richmond, although other jurisdictions in Virginia require cyclists aged 14 and under to wear one. That said, you should still consider using a helmet for your own safety. There’s only so much you can do to protect yourself. You can also wear reflective clothes and ensure your bicycle is well-maintained.