Norfolk Bicycle Accident Attorneys

Helping Injured Cyclists in Norfolk, VA

When a bicycle and a motor vehicle collide, it is almost always the cyclist who suffers the most serious injuries. If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident, you need to obtain the compensation necessary to make the best possible recovery from your injuries. At Kalfus & Nachman PC, we have been helping victims of negligence since 1979. Our Norfolk bicycle accident lawyers are prepared to fight for you.

Get in touch with us today at to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation with our team.

Virginia Bicycle Laws

In Virginia, bicycle laws are designed to ensure safety for cyclists and other road users. According to state law, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators. This means that bicycles must follow the same traffic laws, including obeying traffic signals and stop signs. Cyclists are also required to ride with the flow of traffic and must use hand signals to indicate turns or stops.

Cyclists are permitted to ride on roadways but must adhere to specific rules when doing so. For example, when riding on a roadway with a speed limit of 25 mph or less, cyclists can use the entire lane. On roads with higher speed limits, they are expected to ride as close to the right side of the road as practicable, except when overtaking another vehicle, making a left turn, or avoiding obstacles. Cyclists should not ride more than two abreast and must not impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.

Additionally, Virginia law mandates that bicycles be equipped with certain safety features. Cyclists must have a white front light visible from at least 500 feet and a red rear reflector visible from 600 feet at night. During the day, cyclists should have a red rear light or reflector. Helmets are required for cyclists under 14 years old, though it is strongly recommended for all riders.

Virginia also allows bicycles on most sidewalks unless prohibited by local ordinances. When riding on sidewalks, cyclists should yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing. In some urban areas, cyclists may encounter bike lanes or multi-use paths, which are designated spaces for bicycle use and often have specific rules to follow.

Types of Bicycle Accident Injuries

Because bicyclists are not protected by seat belts, airbags, or the frame of a car, they are highly susceptible to serious injury in a collision. In fact, many bicycle accidents result in death. At Kalfus & Nachman PC, we represent clients who have suffered all types of injuries in bicycle accidents, including catastrophic injuries and wrongful death. We are ready to fight for you.

Our Norfolk bicycle accident attorneys can handle claims involving the following injuries, and more:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Back injuries
• Neck injuries
• Head injuries
• Broken bones
• Road rash
• Scarring & disfigurement

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents are often caused by negligence, such as:

• Distracted driving (e.g. cell phone use)
• Drunk driving
• Drowsy driving
• Speeding
• Running red lights/stop signs
• Turning without looking
• Opening car doors into the path of a cyclist
• Aggressive driving

In some cases, bicycle accidents are caused by dangerous roadways or defective bicycles, or bike parts. For example, if a bicyclist is riding in a bike lane and is struck by a vehicle due to a pothole in the bike lane, the city or municipality may be liable for the bicyclist's injuries. Similarly, if a bicyclist is riding a bike and the front wheel falls off due to a manufacturing defect, the bicycle manufacturer may be held accountable for the resulting injuries.

FAQs About Bicycle Accident Claims in Norfolk, VA

What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident in Norfolk?

If you're involved in a bicycle accident:

1. Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries.
2. Call 911 and report the accident.
3. Get contact and insurance information from all involved parties.
4. Collect witness information.
5. Take photos of the accident scene, your bike, and injuries.
6. Do not admit fault or negotiate with the driver at the scene.

Who can be held liable for a bicycle accident in Virginia?

Liability can fall on:

• A negligent driver (e.g., distracted, speeding, or drunk)
• A municipality (for poorly maintained roads or lack of signage)
• A manufacturer (if a defective bike or auto part contributed)
• A pedestrian (if they suddenly obstructed your path unlawfully)

Does Virginia’s contributory negligence rule affect my claim?

Yes. Virginia follows pure contributory negligence, meaning if you're even 1% at fault, you may be barred from recovering compensation. This makes it crucial to work with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to prove you were not at fault.

What types of compensation can I recover in a bicycle accident claim?

You may be eligible for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage (bike and gear)
• Long-term rehabilitation or disability costs

How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Norfolk, VA?

Virginia’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation.

What if the driver who hit me didn’t have insurance or fled the scene?

If the driver was uninsured or left the scene:

• You may file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
• Hit-and-run cases can also be pursued through UM policies if the driver remains unidentified.

Can I still recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes, but not wearing a helmet could impact your case:

• Virginia law does not require adults to wear helmets, though local ordinances (like in Norfolk) may apply to minors.
• However, insurance companies may argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to your injuries. This can complicate your case, especially under contributory negligence rules.

What evidence will help support my bicycle accident claim?

Key evidence includes:

• Police report
• Medical records
• Witness statements
• Photographs or video footage of the scene and injuries
• Repair estimates for your bicycle

Do I need an attorney for a bicycle accident claim in Norfolk?

While not legally required, hiring a personal injury attorney is highly recommended. An attorney can:

• Investigate your claim
• Handle communication with insurance companies
• Protect your rights under Virginia's strict negligence laws
• Maximize your compensation

How Our Firm Can Help You

Our Norfolk bicycle accident lawyers can handle all types of bicycle accident claims, including those involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death. We can help you understand your rights and options, and we can guide you through the entire legal process. Our team is prepared to fight for the maximum compensation you need for your medical expenses, lost income/wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We are committed to providing you with the personalized, compassionate legal representation you deserve and the aggressive advocacy you need.

Contact our firm today to learn how we can assist you with your bicycle accident claim. We offer free initial consultations and contingency fees, so you don't pay unless/until we win your case.