You might be surprised that your electric scooter most likely has the same laws and rules as your typical bicycle. Electric scooters have recently become popular because they are low-carbon, cheap, and efficient means of transportation for commuters and joy seekers worldwide. But it has also created some issues including sidewalk congestion, traffic obstruction, and accidents. This has caused a need for States to implement laws and guidelines to enforce safety and responsible for scooter riders and the general public. However, we have already seen instances of law enforcement inappropriately citing people for riding their electric scooter on sidewalks here in Arizona.

Sidewalks – Riding a scooter on the sidewalk is banned in only 10 states.

Streets – Only Pennsylvania and Delaware actually ban scooters on streets. For riders in States who ban scooters from sidewalks and for those who are comfortable riding in the street, scooter riders can ride in bike lanes and shoulders but must adhere to the same rights and privileges of a person riding a bicycle.

Arizona – Arizona passed laws (SB 1398) for electric scooters in April 2019 at the state level. They are treated very similarly to bikes, and an “electric standup scooter” is defined as less than 75 lbs in weight and 20 mph in top speed.

This means they can be ridden wherever a bike can (including sidewalks and excluding high speed roads) and that they do not require registration or insurance.

A.R.S. § 28-819. Electric bicycles; electric standup scooters

A. An operator of an electric bicycle or an electric standup scooter is granted all the rights and privileges and is subject to all of the duties of a person riding a bicycle. Except as otherwise provided in this section or as otherwise regulated by a local authority, an electric bicycle or an electric standup scooter is subject to the same provisions of this title as a bicycle.

Arizona is therefore one of the states that specifically states with some limited exceptions that electric scooters and electric bicycles are subject to the same rules of the road as bicycles. And, of course by now you know that most of the rules of the road for bicycles are the exact same as for cars- again with some notable exceptions.

Hopefully you never need our services for a bicycle crash, or electric scooter crash, etc. However, we are here for you when you need us. Be safe, have fun, ride smart and ride hard!

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Co-authored by Kaci Brown, at Bike Accident Attorneys

I hope you always enjoy the ride! Hopefully you’ll never need us, but if you are ever involved in a wreck—we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer — 2020 LOTOJA

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free.

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from
    your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident
    attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

In the first week of February, 2021, a cyclist here in Arizona was riding his bike all alone and was pulled over by a cop for not wearing a mask. He was headed west on Allison Rd. It is a route he takes often as do many other cyclists. See the picture below for the exact location.

This part of Arizona is on a section of land that is an Indian Reservation. It was an Reservation Police Officer who stopped the cyclist for not wearing a mask while riding his bike. In case you are wondering, the cop wasn’t wearing a mask either when he stopped the cyclist nor during any of his interactions with the cyclist. This is a classic example of the bias cyclists face in our legal system. There were and still are dog walkers, joggers, and many more users of the exact roadway here that were not wearing a mask that day. And the cop wasn’t wearing a mask either. Total hypocrisy. And be careful- this blog is not an expression of my feelings towards wearing or not wearing masks; I’ll share those another time. This incident is example of the very bias we face as experienced bicycle lawyers who help cyclists. Almost every case we have had we have seen a version of bias against cyclists. This is yet the most recent cultural and political example: mask wearing coupled with law enforcement targeting a solo cyclist and not anyone else.

Fortunately, the cyclist was not issued a ticket or a citation, this time. The cyclist was totally social distancing and riding solo. Yet he was still intentionally stopped by a cop for not wearing a mask.

If you have also been stopped by a cop as a cyclist for mask requirements, COVID-19 issues, or anything else relating to the pandemic please reach out to me and we can discuss the legal issues and possible resolutions for you. For now, be safe out there. Be smart. Be respectful. But by all means BE YOU. Ride your bike, live your life, be healthy.

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Enjoy the ride! Hopefully you’ll never need us, but if you are ever involved in a wreck- we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Ever wonder what the process is for your personal injury case? Every want to know what the actual steps are to your personal injury case? Here is the basic outline of the process and steps to a personal injury case. These steps form a sort of case map and/or case timeline you can follow with your personal injury attorney. The first 7 steps are all about what happens up until a lawsuit is filed. Many cases are resolved before a law suit is filed.

1.  Consultation with an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

a.   Call to set up a consultation with a reputable and experienced attorney. Our initial consultations are free of cost. Ben Dodge is a certified Master Advocate through the National Institute of Trial Attorneys. Having an experienced court room litigator answer your questions is always the best 1st step.

b.   In your consultation you should provide the attorney with all the facts of loss and provide any documentation you have available at that time. This may include medical bills, receipts, lost wages claim, and more.

c.    Do not speak with any insurance companies until meeting with your attorney. If you are needing to do so because you need to set up a rental car, etc., try to be as brief as possible on information you provide to them. They are trained to solicit answers from you to questions they ask that are only meant to help them.

2.  Property Damage

a.   Most attorneys do not fully handle the property damage portion as this is usually settled within 2 weeks depending on the circumstances. However, some firms will assist with this portion without additional fees.

b.   If you are claiming any additional property damaged be sure to take photos and provide receipts if possible.

3.  Medical Treatment

a.   If you are not already receiving medical treatment it is best that you find the medical provider that will best fit your needs. Beginning and fully completing medical treatment for your injuries will significantly make or break your case.

b.   Keeping up on your treatment and not having large gaps between treatment dates if not necessary.

c.   Keep your attorney/paralegal updated on all medical treatment and letting them know when you are released from treatment.

d.   Understanding that if you feel your injuries are not improving you can always get a second opinion or change providers.

e.   Always understand that your medical treatment is your choice, and you are responsible to voice any concerns you may have.

f.    Be sure you are providing your health insurance if discussed and if the provider accepts your insurance.  If your health insurance is billed there is a chance that there may be a lien for a portion, or all of the payments made.  This total is usually lower than the total cost of medical treatment. Your attorney/paralegal will confirm this with your health insurance. Medicare and Medicaid are automatically required to be reimbursed.

g.   Pay your patient portion of any bills during the case to keep them from going to collections.

h.    If a provider does not accept your insurance or for any reason you feel you do not want to use your health insurance, the provider may put your treatment on a lien.  If this is done, the lien must be honored from your settlement payment. This goes for any liens filed against your settlement.

4.  Developing Evidence

a.   Your Paralegal will be doing this from the time you sign the fee agreement with the firm.

b.   Collecting police report, video and photos, witness statements, accident reconstruction (if needed).

c.   Medical records, itemized billing, and paycheck stubs (if you have missed time from work for medical treatment).

d. Contacting and retaining the necessary expert witnesses to help prove our theory of liability. As your attorney we will assess your case and the probably need of litigation. And in more complex cases we will want to gather our expert witnesses early on so they can eventually help steer the litigation process. Expert witnesses will also read and evaluate the evidence we collect to help formulate their opinion.

5.  Demand Package (This will be done once all medical treatment has been completed)

a.   A demand letter outlining the facts of the case and explaining why the opposing party is liable.

b.   Medical records, itemized billing, police report, photos, and any other supporting documents will be included.

c.   A demand amount will also be listed as to what the attorney is valuing your case at and a starting point for negotiations.

d.   Once the demand package has been reviewed by the other side they will either: i. Accept the settlement offer ii. Respond with a counteroffer iii.   Decline the offer.

e.   Once an initial offer has been made the attorney/paralegal will follow up with you to discuss the offer and obtain your permission to either settle or respond with a counteroffer.

6.  Settlement

a.   Once an offer has been accepted the adjuster will send over a release form for the client to sign.

b.   Once the release has been signed you may not go after the defendant or insurance company for the same accident.

c.   The signed release will be returned, and the check will be issued to your attorney office at which time funds will be disbursed.

d.  Depending on the situation, after attorneys’ fees and costs, payments will be made accordingly.  If there are liens filed, they must be paid from the settlement and anything further is discussed if you would like them paid directly or if you would like to handle paying the remaining providers.

7.   UM/UIM/Medical Payments Coverage

  1. There are different types of coverages that may be used along with the third-party or in the case that there is not third-party coverage.
  2. Uninsured motorist would be used in the chance that the third-party does not have coverage or fled the scene and was unable to be contacted.  This is coverage that is added to your own policy and is not automatically added.
  3. Under-insured motorist would be used when the third-party’s limits are not adequate to cover your medical expenses.  This claim would be submitted once the third-party tenders their policy limits.  This coverage is also added to your own policy and is not automatically added.
  4. Medical Payments is another additional coverage that you can add to your policy.  This is something that we can submit for once we have billing that would equal the coverage available.

The above coverages are all optional and must be added upon your request.  some insurance companies may offer and require you to sign if you refuse the coverage to show that it was offered.

8.   File a Lawsuit

a.   Filing a lawsuit becomes necessary when the at fault party’s insurance refuses to pay, or offers something so low it can never fully compensate our client. Filing a law suit has some strict timelines. Every case is different, however in most cases not involving a government municipality the timeline is 2 years from the date of the accident to file a law suit.

b.   Cases involving governmental entities require a notice of claim to be filed at 6 months from the accident date. Then a lawsuit filing deadline of just 12 months from the accident date.

c.   After the suit is filed there is a lengthy period of time where “discovery” and “disclosure” occurs. This is where both sides request and show each other critical information regarding the facts and theories of liability, etc. of the case. Cases are often won and lost with how well this process is done.

d.   Next is depositions. Depositions are formal recorded and sworn testimonies under oath. They are often held at your attorney’s office or the offices of the defense lawyers. In a deposition you, the witnesses, and expert witnesses will all be asked questions under oath. These are used as a tool to nail down what testimony and what facts will be heard later at trial.

e.   At anytime in the case, but particularly after the depositions are conducted, the Motions of a case are presented. Motions are often used to get certain facts thrown out, or theories of liability established prior to the trial. Here a lawyer can get a certain part of a case, or even a party to the case dismissed. Using the evidence collected so far through discovery and the depositions you can ask the judge make some decisions early, even before the trial. You do all of this through the Motions. Common motions include a Motion for Summary Judgment, or a Motion to Dismiss, and so on.

f.   Settlement. At anytime a case can settle. Often after the discovery, or depositions, and the motions – a case may finally settle. If at any point both parties reach an agreement then they are free to settle. We have even seen this literally on the court house steps as a case is about to start a trial. We have also seen settlements happen during the middle of trials. Your lawyer should be good enough to always explore the maximum settlement opportunities for you at any given point in your case. Always weigh the settlement against the risk of trial.

g.   Trial. Finally, if no settlement could be reached then we go to trial! Trial is where we present your case to a jury for you. The defense also presents their case against you to the jury. Then the jury ultimately decides. It is always a gamble. It is a risk that should be carefully thought through with every settlement offer. Many lawyers are inappropriately afraid of courtroom litigation and trial. You should avoid such lawyers. The best of our profession are proudly litigators. We are attorneys who run towards a courtroom not away from it. While many cases don’t end up in trial we are confident that when we prepare for a trial we get the better settlements. Our clients always net more because of the hard work we put in and the reputation we have.

Enjoy the ride! Hopefully you’ll never need us, but if you are ever involved in a wreck- we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Contributing Author for this article: Mandy Miller, @ Bike Accident Attorneys.

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

As a cyclist and bicycle crash lawyer, here are the best things you should do and know in case you are ever involved in a bike crash.

With what appears to be record numbers of bicycle crashes and more and more people riding bikes, it seems important to review what every cyclist should know from a legal perspective about hi/her bike crash. There are important things that can help preserve your rights and protect you in BOTH the immediate moments after your crash and the long ensuing court battles ahead.

1. DO call 911. Hopefully by now you know how valuable your cell phone can be when cycling. Its not just useful for cool aps such as Strava! Your cell phone is your best tool in your accident for many reasons, first and foremost it is important to immediately call 911 for any medical assistance needed. Call a relative and/or a close friend as well to come out and provide any assistance you may need, such as photographing the accident, collecting your bike, providing you a ride back home, meeting you at the hospital, etc. These calls provide a clear trail that documents your injuries and often ignites the police into action for police reports and investigations if necessary. Of course there is the ambulance issue as well. Calling 911 will trigger a response from medical providers at the scene. They will make sure to check out how injured you are and may even transport you to the nearest hospital. Many of my clients don’t like the ambulance and refuse their offer of transport. I know, I get it- cyclists are tough. We all know that soccer players pretend to be injured while cyclists pretend not to be injured. But in the case of a bike crash it is best to make sure you are not injured by the appropriate medical professionals. Allow yourself to be seen, treated, and transported if necessary. Worst case is they release you that same day form your local hospital. At least all of your future rides that you suffer on will not cause any question or concern whether the “pain” and “suffering” you feel are related to your bicycle crash or just simply due to your incredibly hard training efforts! Any insurance and medical bill concerns should come second to your priority of ensuring you’re injuries are taken care of.

2. DO Get Medical Help. Seek any necessary medical attention as soon as possible. When arriving home again after the accident you should make immediate appointments with any and all necessary medical professionals to begin treatment for your injuries sustained in the bicycle accident. Any delays in treatment will be negatively viewed by the insurance companies as simply not relating to your bicycle crash. Some common medical treatments will be chiropractic care, physical therapy, orthopedic care, and more. It is important to continue seeing these doctors until they officially release you form their care. Many of my clients have to be reminded to actually go to the doctor! They sit at home with broken bones and open wounds hoping time will make it all better. While I generally applaud this mentality in every other context, it makes your legal case hell. Insurance companies are looking for any reason NOT to pay you or to pay you as little as possible. Not seeing doctors or even completing their recommended treatment plans is a recipe for legal disaster when it comes time to argue your injuries. I wish it was more plain and simple, and that good old fashioned common sense was still a prevailing mindset. But it is isn’t, and your case will need a paper trail. Your doctor visits and treatments all make up the necessary paper trail.

3. DO take lots of photos. Again, your cell phone is an important tool. Use it to capture as many photos of the accident scene as possible. Try to capture the damage to the car, the bike, and of course to your person. Take photos of the streets, the lighting, the road conditions, and anything else that may look important. If you are too injured to take photos try and ask for help from a nearby witness, or anyone who is there and willing to do so. The more pictures taken the better. If at all possible, try not to move the bicycle or the vehicle until after a few photos are taken. Use your phone to take photos of the driver’s license and insurance card as well. If you are too hurt then hopefully a riding companion or a witness nearby can take these photos for you at your request. It is ok to ask for help in doing this.

4. DO collect the names and contact information for all witnesses. Don’t assume they will be easy to contact from a police report, or by finding them on Facebook. Take the time to get their current contact information so your attorney can contact them later. Ask them to stick around until the police arrive so they can make a statement for the official report. Take pictures of their contact info if that is faster, and of them if they permit it. Tracking down witnesses later is more difficult than you think. Collect as much info as possible so you or you bicycle attorney can find them later.

Bicycle Crash Lawyer Ben Dodge

5. DO get all of the contact information possible on the driver, including the make, model, color, and license plate number of the driver’s vehicle as well as all contact and insurance information for the driver. Use your cell phone to help collect this information and take photos of these important documents if you are able. As always, ask someone nearby to help and assist you in collecting this information if you are too injured to do so. If you are involved in a bike crash with NO driver- then collect as much info as possible for the bad road condition, debris, etc. as you can. It may be a construction issue and you can collect that construction company’s info, etc. Just collect all contact info you can. Later one it may prove to be much more difficult.

6. STAY OFF OF SOCIAL MEDIA. In our society social media seems to be the only way we connect or even communicate with some people. Don’t use ANY Social Media platforms to discuss the case. Don’t post about it or explain to anyone what you think happened, etc. Don’t post medical updates about your recovery, don’t post any physical activities you may or may not be doing. Stay off. Stay off. Stay off. Many of the large insurance companies have whole divisions of employees whose sole job is to scan and collect social media statements from the parties involved in accidents. They use this information to help support their positions. I have seen clients get tagged by their friends on Instagram and Face Book posts where weeks after their accident they were making a statement about how they feel a little better now. These statements are blown out of proportion and taken out of context to make it sound like no other medical treatment after such statement is even necessary. It gets crazy. Or worse, you say you’re hurt then a week later you pist a picture of yourself rock climbing, or at another bike race, etc. True story. Also- stay off strava, map my ride, my fitness pal, garmin connect, and all other platforms for tracking your rides. After your bike crash you should not be posting any rides until your doctor says you are cleared to ride again.

7. DO keep all of the GPS and Strava data from that ride. This information stored in your GPS devices (such as a Garmin, etc.) can provide helpful information about the events immediately prior to and during your bicycle accident. Many of these devices record helpful information about the % grade of the road, your speed, the time of day, the weather, and much more. This information can be helpful in establishing your own innocence in a bicycle accident, and can provide much needed details when fighting with an insurance company. Sometimes police officers wrongly issue citations to cyclists and these citations be better overturned when we have data to support our position.

8. DON’T discuss any aspect of the bicycle accident case with the driver. I wish I didn’t have to even discuss this topic, because moral decency integrity, and ethics seem to have faded away from many in our society. Nevertheless, as your lawyer it is better to err on the side of caution when you speak with the driver. Sometimes we inadvertently say sorry to the driver even though we cyclists aren’t at fault. It is human to be sorry that an crash happened, it shouldn’t mean you’re claiming responsibility. But in our day and age, that is what a jury thinks. These and other similar statements can and will be seized by the insurance companies and at fault drivers as some sort of confessional to liability. When the cops arrive and start taking statements the driver may inform the cop of your “sorry” statement and may begin to assume that you are at fault. It is certainly OK to listen to the driver go on and on about the accident, especially if he/she is admitting fault. But you should never say anything about the accident. Seriously, say nothing at all – don’t talk about how curvy the road was right there, or how crazy fast the light changed, etc. Say nothing. Just collect his/her info.

9. DON’T leave the scene of the accident until the police have told you that you are free to go. Unfortunately, leaving the scene of an accident is actually a criminal violation in many states. It is for sure in Arizona. Never leave until you have been told you are free to go. Additionally, you may be so nervous and anxious that you just want to get right on your bike in spite of the pain and the injuries you suffered and just quickly ride home (if the bike is still even somewhat functional). Such a decision is not only criminal but can actually reduce or hurt your bicycle accident claim in a serious manner as the insurance company may simply use it as evidence that you are not really injured. Many of us are pretty amped up after a bike wreck and the adrenaline alone can carry us home. Then a few days or hours later and we are in agonizing pain. Be smart and stick around until you are free to go and it is safe to do so. True story: A client of mine was hit and broke his leg in two places. He hopped up, limped to his bike and out of fear, confusion, and an overwhelming desire to get the heck out of there- he just pedaled away in agonizing pain. We settled that case, but it wasn’t easy when we were claiming how much it hurt and they kept saying it couldn’t have hurt that bad since he still rode his bike afterwards.

10. DO call an experienced bicycle accident attorney. Bicycle wrecks are unique. There isn’t a personal injury attorney on the planet who would turn your case down. Personal Injury lawyers are often like cockroaches- they’re everywhere. Every billboard, every t.v and radio commercial, every bus stop, sides of buses, just everywhere! But they don’t know a thing about cycling. They don’t know a thing about the bias and how to deal with it in our legal system. They don;t understand how your bicycle can be worth more than their receptionist’s car. And they just treat every personal injury case the same with a standard red car vs blue car scenario where the fastest settlement is what is best for them. Most lawyers are so scared of the court room they only take settlement offers. Many personal injury lawyers brag about how they can wear blue jeans and a t-shirt to work because all they do is make phone calls and write letters to get some stupid settlement offer out of the insurance company- then they sell that “offer” to you their client as the “best possible scenario give all the circumstances,” etc. It is all B.S.

That is not what you need. You need someone who knows the cycling community. Who knows your local cycling ordinances, statutes, and regulations. You need someone who actually rides bicycles. You need someone who actually goes to court and isn’t afraid to stick it to every idiot insurance company out there with a law suit. There is a very real bias out there that drivers feel towards cyclists. There is a belief that as cyclists we are somehow at fault for these “accidents.” As if we are “stupid enough” to ride on streets where cars also drive then we somehow deserve to get hit. This bias is not limited to just the drivers out there – I have seen it in police officers and insurance adjusters as well. Educating the police officers, the drivers, and the insurance companies on cyclists’ rights is the only way these cases end up receiving fair treatment. OFTEN that education comes via my lawsuit. I take them to court. I show them the laws and make the arguments necessary for my client’s success. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer will be able to help identify the key issues in a bike accident that lend to a stronger medical and financial recovery. No cyclist should have to settle for less just because when they were in an accident they were riding a bike and not driving a car.

Enjoy the ride! Hopefully you’ll never need us, but if you are ever involved in a wreck- we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

“Why can’t I just ride on the sidewalk and not even risk getting hit by a car?” great question. SO many reasons. Both the law and educated experience provide answers to this question. The data may not surprise you, but sidewalks suck and are much less safe than riding on the road.

Sidewalks Are Really SUCKWALKS

First, lets get a little story about sidewalks in. My 10 year old son is obsessed with roads right now. He loves the sound of the cracks as we drive over them, the overpasses and bridges, and the dedicated bike lanes we see all over our beautiful city. Almost every time I return from a ride he asks me what roads I went on. I tell him and then he gets frustrated and disappointed because it is “unfair” that I get to ride on the road and he has to ride on the sidewalk. He recently learned that term “this sucks”. He has now told me that sidewalks are really just “suck walks” because it sucks to ride on sidewalks. I busted up laughing at his newly coined word and how appropriate it really is in this context. He has no idea how right he is. I love it. I love everything about it. You’ll see him below when I took him out on a little field trip to teach him about bike lanes and sidewalks. He sat down in the bike lane (don’t worry, it was a little side street with no traffic whatsoever) and we just chatted all about the importance of bike lanes.

My 10yr Old Son & I On a Father-Son Field Trip to Discuss Bike Lanes

Why Does It Suck to Ride on a Sidewalk?

In a semi recent bicycle collision report published by the city of Phoenix in 2010, the conclusion was that approximately 70% of the bicycle collisions- the cyclist was riding on the sidewalk or had just left the sidewalk. It is legitimately more dangerous to ride on a sidewalk than on the street. For most motorists, the driveways or side streets with sidewalks on either side are points of entry or exits. In most cases the motorists is eagerly waiting for a break in traffic just to make the entry or exit that inevitably intersects the sidewalks. They don’t pay attention to pedestrians and cyclists on the sidewalk when they are looking for the momentary break in traffic. And when they finally see that break in traffic they almost floor it just to get in our out of where they are going.

That lack of attention from motorists is one major reason why it SUCKS to ride on sidewalks. But there are some legal issues here as well.

ARS 28-627 Grants Local Cities the Authority to Make Traffic Laws & It May Be Illegal in Your City!

While the State statutes do not address bicycles on sidewalks in Arizona, the local and individual cities can and often do enact their own rules for sidewalk riding. It can be legal or illegal depending on what city you are in or in some cases what part of a city you are in. For a more detailed article on this specific issue you can check our our other post: Is It Legal to Ride my Bike on the Sidewalk. The short answer is it can absolutely be illegal. For most cities however, they make an exception for smaller bicycles based on wheel size so as to not penalize children from riding on the sidewalk. Almost to encourage them to actually ride on the sidewalk instead of the road. Can you imagine little 4 year old Sally riding in the road? Probably not. I can’t either. Based on the speeds of most children and the fact they mostly ride in neighborhoods and not on busy commercial streets riddled with strip malls, sidewalks may be safer for them. I know I make my son ride on them when we ride together and we go much slower than when I roll with my racing team out in the roadways.

Sidewalk vs Bike Lane

Hands down there is a huge difference here. The bike lane is a dedicated part of the road way intended for use by bicycles. There are specific protections and traffic laws/rules relating to them intended to protect cyclists. If a cyclist was hit while legally riding in the bike lane his/her case of sharing some of the fault with the driver is much easier to win. However, when the cyclist is on the sidewalk the contributory negligence arguments get much harder to win. Often cyclists on sidewalks are riding against the flow of traffic. They often don’t have helmets. And they may be illegally on the sidewalk with an adult sized bike, or on a sidewalk where cycling is prohibited by local municipal code. Not to mention that sidewalks are shared by so many users and bike lanes are meant just for bicycles.

Final Conclusion: Avoid riding on a SUCKWALK.

Avoid riding on a suckwalk. They are far more dangerous, and present more tricky legal considerations that can harm your case. If you find yourself on a sidewalk be sure to monitor traffic from both directions as best as possible when you approach an intersection or driveway. Motorists seem to come from every angle and you don’t want to get hit. Sidewalks suck. They may be illegal and they definitely aren’t safe. Use the bike lane, or the shoulder, or even take the lane when you must.

Enjoy the ride! Hopefully you’ll never need us, but if you are ever involved in a wreck- we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

“Do I have to ride all the way to the right? What if there is no bike lane, or zero shoulder? Where in the road is it legal to ride my bike? Where is it illegal to ride?” I get asked these questions fairly often. The short answer is “it depends.”

Why is there so much confusion among police officers, motor vehicle drivers, insurance adjusters and even some cyclists when it comes down to this question? Simple, most people are confused because they either don’t know the law and how to apply it, and/or they are blinded by bias.

“GET OFF THE F*ing ROAD” he screamed…

True story: car drives by and buzzes a cyclist within an inch or two. Yelling and screaming gout the window to get off the f*ing road. Cyclist is nearly knocked of his bike in the process and run off the road in what certainly amounts to very dangerous conditions. All because this driver couldn’t wait to pass, or pass with 3 feet of clearance between himself and the cyclist.

This is not an unfamiliar story to many of us who ride. You each likely have dozens of these experiences yourself. No doubt we can all share story after story of reckless and angry drivers who place our lives in danger out of their own impatience.

This raises the major question of where exactly are we legally obligated to be and allowed to be? They are different. Lets look at Arizona bicycle laws. Arizona is where our Bike Accident Attorneys National Network is headquartered. Arizona bicycle laws and traffic laws are very similar to many other states:

Bicycles Can Use the Roadway

Arizona Revised Statutes 28-812 expressly grants cyclists the right to use the road when it states that a person riding a bicycle is “granted all of the rights and is subject to all of the duties” that apply to a driver of a vehicle. In its simplest intent this statute says bicycles can use the roads. The very same roads that cars use. It is from this statute that the conflict between cyclist and driver seems to be born, both having equal rights and duties on the roadways. Most states have a similar statute wherein cyclists are granted express permission to use the roadways as well as express duties that for the most part mirror that of drivers.

So why then do drivers get so mad at cyclists on the roadways? Good question. Too much to address here in this article, but my personal belief is our culture in America is so different towards cycling as a means of transportation that tend to view cyclists as annoying pests instead of equals. And that culture has a lot of contributing factors, from our impatience to the sheer number of people who commute via car rather than bike, etc. and so much more.

So Where On the Roadway MUST We Ride? To the Right?

In general, the law requires a cyclist who is riding “at less than the normal speed of traffic” to ride “as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway” (ARS 28-815). This the Arizona law that many other states also have. Note that this only applies if the cyclist is riding at less than the normal speed of traffic. And even then the statute further specifies that it is “less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing.” One great example is a downhill descent. It is often much safer to take the lane when you can reach speeds comparable to that of traffic under the conditions, time, and place then existing.

Essentially, as cyclists we are REQUIRED to stay to the right. However, there are a list if exceptions: (ARS 28-815)

  • If passing another bicycle or vehicle going in the same direction as you on your bike
  • If prepping for a left turn into an intersection, private road, or driveway.
  • If reasonably necessary to avoid conditions like fixed or moving objects, parked cars, bicycles, pedestrians, animals, or other surface hazards.
  • If the lane you’re riding in is too narrow for a bicycle and vehicle to travel safely, side by side.

That last point is the one we must really clarify. When is it unsafe for a vehicle and a bicycle to ride side by side? Simple, in a state like Arizona where we have a 3 foot passing law (see ARS 28-735 and/or this article) then any lane where you can’t pass a cyclist with 3 feet then the cyclist can take the lane. Period. End of story. Or is it…?

The exception to the exception: if you are riding your bicycle slower than the normal flow of traffic on a 2 lane highway where passing is unsafe (i.e. curvy mountain roads, etc.), AND 5 or more vehicles are all waiting behind you; then you are now impeding traffic. You must pull over to let them pass you (ARS 28-704).

Final Conclusion: Ride to the Right or Take the Lane, Both Seem to Work!

Cyclists: At the end of the day you should ride to the right except when it isn’t safe or impracticable to do so. Then you should occupy the lane. When taking the lane just take the right 1/3 or 1/2. Proceed cautiously and take the lane after confirming it is safe to do so with any oncoming traffic, etc. Pay attention to curvy two lane highways or other roadways where due to the lack of a bike lane you end up causing 5 or more cars to stack up behind you. If that happens pull over and let them pass. Also be wise, be safe, don’t take the lane just because you think you can. ONLY take it when necessary for your safety.

Drivers: Be careful and cautious. The cyclists out there have the same right to use the roads that you do. Do not pass them unless you can do so with at least 3 feet of distance between you and the cyclist. At times you may see a cyclist out in the lane. This is normal. Most likely there is debris in the road that the cyclist can see more clearly than you. Avoid honking as you drive by as this can often cause a crash. Be wise, be patient and chill out. Stay off your phone and pay attention to your surroundings.

***

Enjoy the ride! Hopefully you’ll never need us, but if you are ever involved in a wreck- we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

For those of you who love the dirt and park outside your local state park but ride your bike into the park on some other connecting trails- you may get a ticket! It seems to make sense that if you find that magical parking spot outside of the state park that you somehow figured out a clean way to skirt the system. You may learn the hard way that you might just be wrong and a ticket will show up on your parked vehicle. Here’s what you need to know…

State Park Fees are for Entrance into the park not for Parking

Oddly enough some out door enthusiasts and mountain bikers believe that the fees they pay are for parking. However, typical sate park fees across the country are considered entrance fees and just include parking. Some other state parks have an additional fee for parking, but that is less common.

When you understand that an entrance fee is not a parking fee then you may start to realize why some Park Rangers are getting away with writing tickets and leaving them on your windshield. When you return it looks and feels like a parking ticket. But in reality it is a user/entrance fee of the state park.

Local Example: Usery Mountain Regional Park

Here in Arizona a local park full of decent mountain biking and hiking trails is located east of Phoenix. While it’s official name is Usery Mountain Regional Park, we all just refer to it as Usery. There is also a ton of road cyclists who make the paved climb and the decent a regular part of their weekly training.

Like many other state and regional parks, Usery has a main entrance staffed with some park rangers. They collect your entrance fee there at the gate before you’re allowed inside. Once you’re all paid up and parked, you are free to use the many hiking, biking, or horseback trails available to you. There is even some camping sites built around the park.

And like many other state and regional parks, there are numerous trails that start outside the park and lead into the park. One such famous entry point at Usery is the corner of W. McKellips and N. Crismon Road. This is an official entrance to the park, however there is no ranger station built there and you will never see a ranger standing there to collect your entrance fees. Most weekends this corner is full of vehicles parked all over the dirt section. Most of them are mountain bikers.

E. McKellips Road and N. Crismon

We actually called the Maricopa County Assessor’s Office to confirm whether or not that section of dirt on the North and East side of those two roads is privately owned rather than park property. That dirt section is in fact owned by Maricopa County. After a conversation with Maricopa County Parks and Recreation we learned that they intentionally cleared out more of that dirt section to make more parking available for users of the park. It is not an official parking lot by any stretch of the imagination but it is widely known as a great parking spot for this entrance into the park and the park itself supports parking there by their own actions.

I get reports from frustrated cyclists that they are getting tickets for parking in the dirt area which has been clearly supported for parking by the park. I always love supporting our cycling community so I start looking into it. Turns out that the park is not writing parking tickets at all but rather writing tickets for non payment of the usage fee into the park. After speaking with a ranger, we learned that they are assuming that whoever parks there is using the park. If someone is parked in that dirt area north and east of McKellips and Crismon roads without a usage permit then you will get ticketed.

The annual pass permit is only $30 and can be purchased in several areas around town but NOT at this dirt lot entrance. If you purchase and display an annual pass then you can park there without any tickets. There is also an option for a day pass of $2.00 per vehicle which you can purchase there in order to gain lawful entry into the park. The $2.00 user fee for a day pass is an “on your honor” type system where you leave your money in an envelope type deal there onsite and take a pass for your windshield. Ironically, the $2.00 fee doesn’t allow entry into the main gate. That is a much higher fee.

Maricopa County Parks and Recreation: Park Rule 104

THE FOLLOWING ACTS ARE PROHIBITED IN MARICOPA COUNTY PARKS:
R-104 ENTRY, USE, OCCUPANCY, FEES

  1. Entering, using, or occupying of a Maricopa County Park or its facilities, designated trails or waterways under the supervision and control of the Department for any purpose when said parks or areas are posted against such entrance, use, occupancy or where barriers exist.
  2. Entering upon or using for any purpose, the land, water or facilities within the boundaries of Maricopa County Parks when a fee, rental, admission or other consideration has been established for such land, water or facilities, unless the person entering or using such land, water or facility has paid said fee, rental, admission or other consideration.

So 104(1) doesn’t apply to the McKellips/Crismon parking issue because there is no barrier there as intended by this rule. However, Rule104(2) does specifically states that you are not allowed to enter or use the land without paying the use/entrance fee. And in this scenario the use/entrance fee is clearly posted at the entrance with means to leave your money and claim your permit right there.

Conclusion

For sure ride your bike more! When riding in regional or state parks be sure to understand what permits/usage fees are required to gain lawful entrance. Regardless of where you park make sure you have obtained the correct permit to lawfully ride. Most state and regional parks require one. Support local, regional, federal, and state parks as much as possible by paying the appropriate fees to use them.

Enjoy the ride! Hopefully you’ll never need us, but if you are ever involved in a wreck- we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

It’s important your bicycle lawyer have some basic skillz (as they say these days). Recently when I interviewed cyclists about what they expect their lawyer to know and do I was not shocked to learn the following expectations. Proudly, I can say “I got this” to my clients.

Be A “Badass” in The Courtroom

Not surprised and I can’t agree more! Of course you want your bicycle lawyer to be able to go toe to toe with the largest and meanest of insurance companies and their army of attorneys. Would you ever really hire someone who isn’t the most incredible trial lawyer and total bad ass in the courtroom? No one wants to show up to war with an untrained, nervous, and awkward soldier. Yet law school does absolutely nothing for people who want to learn how to be incredible attorneys. How do you know your bicycle lawyer is even good as a lawyer in the court room? When is the last time they were even in trial? What do they intentionally do to keep up on their skillz?

The deep dark secret is that law school only teaches you how to think differently, not how to be a lawyer. This is a huge problem. A true Trial Attorney is a dwindling breed in a subset of our profession. I’ll be blatantly honest and bold in this following comment and I don’t mean to intentionally hurt anyone’s feelings, but on the hand I also don’t care if other lawyers find this offensive: 95% of lawyers have no business representing clients in court. Most lawyers don’t have the gumption, the skill, the tactics, the strategies, the persuasiveness, the mind, the courtroom presence, etc. to ever effectively be a trial attorney. It is a dwindling breed. When more and more cases settle there is less of a need for the development of true trial attorneys. A law degree doesn’t mean crap. A trial lawyer is more of a “reputation” thing that only trial lawyers earn over time, especially the good ones. The rest of everyone else I affectionately call Pencil Pushers. They belong behind a desk somewhere thinking about how to draft some legal document, but never should they actually go argue it in court.

Recently I attended an advanced trial skills clinic in Washington D.C. with some of the best trial attorneys currently in our country. Some of the federal judges in attendance all agreed that trial lawyers are a dwindling breed. Clinics and courses like these are not widely attended by my peers because they take too much time and cost too much money. What shame. Especially when many of those same lawyers have zero court room skillz.

My clients expect an amazing lawyer and that is what I give them. I’m all in. I seize every opportunity to be better and learn more. I take professional and personal development seriously. I have even been known to hire professional actors and theater personalities to provide training on court room verbal and physical presentation skills. “Refine your craft. Hone your skillz. Be better today than you were yesterday.” All words I live by. Besides, have you noticed the subtle (or maybe not so subtle) 3 letter designation for our national racing team: BAA Racing. Bike Accident Attorneys, or one with a little imagination could see: BAA for an entirely different meaning. A meaning our clients understand, bad ass attorneys. 😉 See our 2020 racing team jersey:

Have Integrity

Lawyers need to be brutally honest with their clients. I hate it when a client comes to me who spoke to another lawyer prior to hiring me and told me what that lawyer said. It usually involves something along the lines of a lie about the real case value or process of the case in hopes of getting that client to hire them.

Maintaining integrity with our clients is a HUGE part of our culture. We speak plainly and frequently to our clients. If we think the insurance company or opposing attorneys are jerking our clients around then we tell them. We don’t try and make it look like their low ball settlement offer is the “best you will likely get.” Instead we take the gloves off and take those jerks to court. Period.

Our clients here from us every couple of weeks at most. I insist that they get regular updates on how their case is going even if the news isn’t always good. Constant and frank communication is necessary for anyone who practices law with integrity. I prefer it and so do most human beings.

Ride Bicycles

Seriously, how many accident lawyers and personal injury lawyers do you know that actually bicycles? How in touch can they be with what you’re experiencing as a client? I know most personal injury lawyers try to get as many accident cases as possible and they treat them all the same. It is usually NEGLIGENCE and they just run a bicycle accident case through their standard negligence injury formula of:

  1. Duty
  2. Breach
  3. Causation (& proximate cause)
  4. Damages

They simply rely on their experience of classic motor vehicle style accidents: red car hits blue car, blah blah blah. They look at you as a bicycle client and say the car had a duty to drive in a safe manner and not to hit you. The car breached that duty when it made an unsafe turn through the intersection. Your client’s unsafe turn was the cause and proximate cause of my bicycle client’s injuries her car hit my client on his bicycle in that turn. My client in fact suffered physical damages to his body/person with documented medical injuries as well as property damages to his bicycle.

Looking at a bicycle law case like a car case may be legal malpractice. The typical personal injury lawyer will treat it like a car case and miss important issues that can change the outcome of the case and limit the ability of the lawyer to effectively represent the cyclist. For example, they overlook any mention of a “sun glare” in the police report and as to why the investigating officer felt it was really reasonable for any driver not to see the cyclist. Therefore no citation was issued. They over look that the cyclist wasn’t in just a shoulder but a designated bike path affording some privileges and protection. They over look the issue that the cyclist had day light lights on his bike. They don’t understand how to extrapolate the cyclist’s garmin data, and they may not even know what a garmin is. They over look the similarities and frequencies of the cyclist’s chosen route as can be demonstrated in Strava, Gamrin Connect, and other apps like map my ride, etc. that all show how the cyclist safely proceeds through that intersection hundreds of times before. They look at bicycle damages in awe not understanding what comprises a drive train or how micro cracks around a bottom bracket must be X-rayed to positively ID.

In short, they just miss too much and then accept a laughably low settlement offer because they don’t understand what they are missing. They don’t understand what they don’t know. Then like any other typical personal injury lawyer who is not a cyclist, they move onto the next car case they have and continually focus on volume rather than quality.

BAA Founder and Bicycle Litigation Lawyer Ben Dodge

Be a Human

In fact – most lawyers are total douche bags. Have you ever heard the old joke about “How many lawyer jokes actually exist? Answer: Only 3, the rest are true.” Sadly lawyers earn their horrible reputations and the jokes about our profession are less and less a joke and more often than not true statements. Another classic lawyer joke with far too much truth about the character of lawyers is: “What happens if you give a lawyer Viagra? He gets taller.” Hinting that lawyers are just jerks. They don’t truly respect their clients and often talk down to them with a big ego and considerable condescension. People wan to be treated kindly, especially when they are paying you to represent them.

I still can’t wrap my brain around the fact that many lawyers could care less about treating their clients with kindness, they only care about making the money. They never connect the fact that the client’s trusting you and their choice to keep you hired is the only way you continue to make the money. And the benefit of a referral far outweighs some ridiculous marketing strategy to get new clients.

We get it. Legals matters can be sensitive and complicated. We make sure to empathize and sympathize with our clients. We understand that our clients are people and that they would have rather not ever even needed a lawyer, but now that they do we are here for them. We have their back. We protect them. We love and appreciate them. One simple way we show this is to spontaneously send hand written cards to our clients throughout their case, and even after their case has concluded. We thank them for doing a great job in court that day, or acknowledge a birthday their child may have had, or simply tell them that we are thinking of them and hoping they have a great day. With our fatality cases we will even set up meals, assist setting up child care arrangements, and on the anniversary of the death date we will usually set up some sort of memorial or some other meaningful event to honor them. We understand the importance of being bad ass lawyers as well as being incredible humans in meeting our clients needs.

Make sure you find a bicycle lawyer with skillz. We are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys who represent cyclists in every state. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer #BAA

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

The group ride is a hallmark of cycling and a major reason many cyclists enjoy riding their bikes. Most of our routes and daily rides take the shape of some version of a group ride. It could be a handful or less of your closest friends planning something the night before on a text thread. Or it could be a regularly schedule local group ride you want to hop on.

Fact is we all LOVE group rides. They are fun, social, and often can push us to a physical effort level we may not reach on an individual ride. Whatever your reason for joining a group ride, make sure you CLEARLY UNDERSTAND the #1 One Tip. Knowing this can build trust between your fellow riders, ensure your safety and theirs, and boost confidence.

The #1 Group Ride Tip is:

Point out hazards. It sounds easy, and even lame to some people. But it is hands down the number one group ride tip out there. There are hundreds of suggestions and even unwritten group riding rules of etiquette related to group riding. There are rules on how to properly wear your sunglasses and the proper length of your socks. There are really important tips related to drafting and wheel overlapping. Not sprinting from the middle of a pack, and more. All of these are incredible and worth learning. Why is pointing out hazards the #1 tip? Because pointing out hazards can not only save you but can save the group from devastating crashes. It takes no bike handling skill. It requires no real experience. And yet it can help avoid gnarly bike crashes. ANYONE can do it. EVERYONE should do it. You can show up to your first group ride and be an expert at it simply by learning what is expected of you without having ridden much at all. Plus, some of us more experienced riders get to casual in our hazard pointing. We get too comfortable thinking “surely everyone behind me can see this…” – when in fact, rarely can your fellow cyclists see anything in front of you, or even next to you. Call it out. Point it out. Nail this down or get nailed out there.

Everyone appreciates the cyclist who points out hazards. Do your part in the group and ensure everyone sees what you are pointing out. Make sure if you see another cyclist pointing something out that you also gesture, and make your gesture big. Ensure the message is received all the way down through the group. It creates a feeling of safety, security, and trust. Be the cyclist that points out hazards. Don’t be the cyclist not paying attention, or not effectively pointing out hazards. No one wants to ride behind or with the careless cyclist. We all have been in group rides where we instantly mark the guy to avoid.

What Hazards?

There may be too many to list them all. However, anything that poses a risk to you and/or your group is a hazard. Especially when you are in the front of the group you may be able to easily avoid a bump, dip, crack, pothole, etc in the road but in the middle of back of the group it may be much more difficult to see. Hazards may include:

  1. Road defects such as cracks, potholes, uneven surfaces, dips, bumps, and more.
  2. Construction issues such as cones, metal plates, ditches, incomplete road surfaces, signs, and more.
  3. Traffic Signals and stop signs and other road signs and indicators.
  4. Traffic issues such as heavy traffic, car up ahead, car back, passing cars, parked cars, big trucks, cars at intersections.
  5. Intersections and directions such as right and or left turns, slowing, and stopping.
  6. Road debris such as branches, rocks, gravel, sand, bits of car tires, the million weird things that fall out of cars and end up in the bike lane (one time I had to avoid hitting a refrigerator!), etc and more.
  7. Dogs, runners, pedestrians, and other living things. ;-0 Seriously – so many possibilities here that must be called out. Stray dogs, or even dogs on a leash in the sidewalk that get too close to your bike lane can be a disaster.
  8. Even other cyclists or other cycling groups you come upon that are slower than you. They must be called out and provided plenty of room when passing (3′ at a minimum).

There are seriously more. This is just a quick list of the basics. Every town, and country will likely have its own unique set of “hazards” you may encounter. Point them out!

Proper Hazard Pointing

Not every cyclist points out hazards, and many don’t even do it the right way. Lets discuss how you can do it the right way. The general principle here is that small gestures are hard to see, especially when dark. Think big. Think big gestures (except for verbal cues can be over done – see below). Be certain your pointing is seen. When done right many cyclists behind you can see. When done wrong the cyclist immediately behind you may not even see you point.

If you’re thinking it is unsafe to remove your hand from your handle bar longer than a nano second then you’re wrong. This fear based mindset will only allow you to make short, quick, and small gestures. The people who crash behind you because you’re uncomfortable riding with one hand won’t appreciate your lack of bike handling skills. And yes, if you ride in a group of other cyclists and hop on “the group” ride then you better be able to demonstrate some basic bike handling skills such as pointing out hazards. Others are depending on you doing it. I have a good friend and local cyclist named Saul who only has the use of his left arm. His right arm had been damaged and is permanently in a sling. He rides his bicycle with one hand at all times. And yes, he is COMFORTABLE pointing out hazards. Not only is he comfortable, he is one of the safest cyclists in a group ride I know. What’s your excuse? Saul can do it and ride momentarily long enough without any hands on the handlebar to ensure the safety of those he rides with.

Get comfortable pointing out in big gestures. Make sure you have some basic bike handling skills nailed down. Your comfort level needs to be there before you put others at risk.

Finger Pointing & Hand Gestures

I’ll start with a personal pet peeve of mine. The cyclist who pints something out with a finger but holds his/her hand so close to their body that unless you’re on that side of the cyclist you stand no chance of seeing it. Even if you are right behind him you may not see the gesture. Especially if it is dark! It’s as if the cyclist is trying to not allow any air space between his arm and his body. While it is great that this guy at least points something out, it is a very ineffective way to do so. The guys riding directly behind him may not see him, and you know the guys in the middle and back of the group can never see such a gesture. It’s simply ineffective.

When it comes to finger pointing and hand gestures, it is best to exaggerate your movement and your pointing. Instead of keeping your arm tight along side you, point by holding your arm directly extended all the way out perpendicular to your body. Also – some motion is even more effective. Not only will the cyclists directly behind you see you, but even many of the cyclists in the back of the group may still see it. This is the proper way to point hazards regardless of where your position in the pack/group. Even if you are in the very back, you never know when someone or some other group may be coming up behind you. Plus it is good to make it a habit. Point out hazards even in the back.

Another common hand gesture worth making big is the “slowing” or “stopping” hand gesture. Make sure to emphasize this big like all hand gestures. Ensure the guys behind you see it. In this case you may also want to call it out verbally as we discuss later in this article.

Bad example. Too small a gesture. Too close to the body. Too hard to see.
Good example. Big gesture. Hand stretched out perpendicular to the body. Easy to see.

Verbal Calling Out

This is often best accompanied with literal finger pointing. The two combined are unmistakable. However, on it’s own verbal calling out may be effective when warning of an approaching car. A classic example, is someone in the back yells out “Car Back” – indicating that a car is coming from behind. This is fine. It is best when like the old telephone game when you hear it you repeat it. This way you ensure the warning makes it’s way through the peleton. “Car up”, “Slowing”, “Stopping”, “Right Turn”, “Left Turn” are all common verbal calls. All of which are also best accompanied with some hand signals as well.

Remember hand gestures are hard to see unless they are big movements. Imagine you are on a stage and performing in a theater production. How will you guarantee the people in the back of the theater can still see and understand what you are conveying? Simple, by over exaggerating. This is what actors must do, even down to their stage makeup. We ought to do it as well. Their very facial expressions and body movements must be exaggerated or they are missed and their production was ineffective at conveying the message they intended. So it is with group cycling. Again, especially in the dark.

Verbal call outs can at times be over exaggerated. One important thing to bring up here is that the temptation to scream out some word like “debris” or “hole” can sometimes scare the hell out of the other cyclists in your group. Often they can’t hear exactly what you are yelling. And if it sounds like you’re about to die and all you intended was to point out a stick next to you then you must be mindful of the risks. Don’t over yell. Screaming like your about to die is not necessarily helpful. This is the one example if how over exaggeration doesn’t fit. A calm and controlled strong tone is important. Screaming for your life is scary. Remember what it feels like when a car drives by and honks unexpectedly at you. Scary! It is the same when you hear someone over yelling. Be safe. Be smart. Be calm and controlled in all of your gestures, call outs, and in all things bike handling.

Pre Ride Call Outs

Last but not least, before a ride starts is an awesome time to draw attention to anything in the route you already know is a hazard. Many of our routes are common. If we remember some construction, or a particular hole, etc. bring it up to the group before you even start. This could likely save someone a lot of pain.

Don’t be afraid to call/point out hazards. Be comfortable with your bicycle before joining a group ride. Be the cyclist everyone can trust. Regardless of your experience as a cyclist, we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys as well. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

I am a local Arizona cyclist and a nationally known bicycle lawyer. I have been representing cyclists since 2006. What I’m about to describe is real world experience handling countless cycling cases in our legal system. The scary truth is that people don’t care about cyclists. When I say people, I mean almost everyone. The drivers on the road. The police officers investigating bicycle accidents. The insurance companies handling bicycle accident claims. The jury in a trial listening to the cyclist’s plea for help. And the list goes on and on.

Motorists: All the Hate…

I’m constantly engaged in the representation of cyclists. And in so doing I am always encountering what seems to be the worst in people. I know not all people are bad. I know not all drivers are bad.

However, there is almost a tangible disdain between motorists and cyclists. It feels like almost every motorist believes that cyclists shouldn’t be riding their bicycles on the same roads as cars. In many cases this feeling shows up in road rage and outright anger. I have been personally run off the road a great number of times. I have seen and helped cyclists who were aggressively and intentionally hit by a motorist.

Recently in Glendale Arizona, 4 cyclists were hit by a vehicle making an unsafe left turn. (See story here: https://www.azfamily.com/traffic/several-bicyclist-struck-by-car-in-goodyear-police-say/article_508b506a-d567-11e9-b209-4b178c294596.html?fbclid=IwAR1Xnqtc7_ObmOoo51C1ZCljekb3muVgato1zMjVHnvUX-GMzTXXctzFcj4). The news reported that the driver indicated sun glare was an issue and that is why the cyclists were not seen.

In a thread relating to this article on our own Arizona Bike Accident Page, the bias between motorists and cyclists was in full force. The anger manifested by one such driver is below. I apologize for the constant swear words (and this one is even a mild one):

I believe the point this person is trying to make is cyclists need to be careful while riding. However, note the insane amount of wear words and angry tone. This person is very frustrated towards cyclists. In this particular case in Goodyear there is no fault whatsoever to the cyclists based on the facts we have. It was simply a left turn by a driver who couldn’t see, and turned anyways! These cyclists are lucky to not have been killed.

The problem is that this BIAS is real. It influences many of the drivers. The very same drivers we encounter as insurance adjusters, police officers, and members of our juries.

The Police: Bias & Pity for Drivers

This is by NO MEANS a bash on police. Our police officers put their lives on the line to protect and to serve their communities. It is an honorable profession deserving of recognition.

However, there is room for much improvement. A classic example is the same set of circumstances for the Glendale Arizona bicycle accident described above. And how the police failed to fully investigate and failed to issue any citations to the driver.

Arizona Bicycle Lawyer Case:

Bike Accident Attorneys client: J.P. was riding westbound on Baseline Arizona in the morning hours. The sun was rising in the east. The driver made a left turn without being able to see if the path of the vehicle was clear and safe. This resulted in her hitting and nearly killing J.P. Our client, J.P. suffered major injuries. J.P. was not from Arizona and was only here for a brief vacation. J.P. was unable to return home for several months while the necessary medical care was administered before J.P. was recovered enough to travel.

The driver who hit J.P. cited sun glare as a factor for not being able to see the cyclists. The police involved in the investigation agreed with the driver and felt like it would have been hard to see a cyclist given the sun glare. No mention was made that when turning the driver must make sure it is safe to do so before proceeding with the turn. No citation was issued to the driver. There easily two citations which could have easily been applied:

  1. A.R.S. 28-754(a). Unsafe left turn. A person shall not turn a vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in proper position on the roadway as required in section 28-751, or turn a vehicle to enter a private road or driveway or otherwise turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left on a roadway unless and until the movement can be made with reasonable safety.
  2. A.R.S. 28-772. Failure to yield right of way while making a left turn. The driver of a vehicle within an intersection intending to turn to the left shall yield the right-of-way to a vehicle that is approaching from the opposite direction and that is within the intersection or so close to the intersection as to constitute an immediate hazard.
  3. A.R.S. 28-701(A) and (D). Failure to Drive at a Reasonable and Prudent Speed through and Intersection. (A) A person shall not drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the circumstances, conditions and actual and potential hazards then existing. A person shall control the speed of a vehicle as necessary to avoid colliding with any object, person, vehicle or other conveyance on, entering or adjacent to the highway in compliance with legal requirements and the duty of all persons to exercise reasonable care for the protection of others… (D) The maximum speed provided in this section is reduced to the speed that is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and with regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing, including the following conditions: 1) Approaching and crossing an intersection or railroad crossing. 2) Approaching and going around a curve. 3) Approaching a hillcrest. 4) Traveling on a narrow or winding roadway. 5) A special hazard exists with respect to pedestrians or other traffic or by reason of weather or highway conditions.

I have had a number of cases with this exact scenario. Yet, in a car on car accident the driver who made this same exact unsafe left hand turn with sun glare would get at least one or more of the citations above. Yet, in a cycling case the police officers seem to take pity on the driver agreeing in some sort of twisted and biased way that cyclists must be so hard to see that they are excused from the law when hitting one.

I can’t help but wonder what the police will do with this most recent “sun glare” infraction up in Glendale Arizona. 4 cyclists were hit. Not seeing one cyclist is bad enough, not not seeing 4 cyclists is crazy. Will the police even cite the driver? In my experience the safe bet is bet on no, the driver will likely walk away without any real infraction.

In our Arizona bicycle accident case with J.P. we were able to successfully win the case in spite of the lack of liability determination by the investigating officers. J.P. was fully compensated and able to return to cycling making a full recovery. We continue to write police departments with training and instructions on bicycle crash investigations. We are proactive in helping the Arizona cyclists locally. We are home based here in Arizona. This is our home. These are our roads. We are here for you.

Insurance Companies: Total Ignorance

I won’t spend much time here. The bias with insurance companies is all too real. It is OBVIOUS that they make money by not spending money on your injury claims. What is only obvious to a handful of us professionals in the country who exclusively represent cyclists is that insurance companies are supremely ignorant in all things cycling related.

They are so used to auto accidents and homeowner’s claims that they are literally clueless with most cycling cases. Think about it for a minute, the whole industry is geared towards auto accidents. Not long ago my wife was involved in a motor vehicle accident. Another driver rear ended her. We were instructed to take her vehicle to a local insurance agent to work up a damages estimate. When we arrived we noticed that the address we were given contained 3 business all in the same exact building. The insurance adjust maintained a desk there, along with an auto body repair shop, and a rental car business. We literally walked in and 30 minutes later we drove away in a rental car with a promise to return in a few days to pick up our damaged car all fixed up brand new again.

BUT no where did I see a bike shop, or rental bikes available. And with the lack of these types of professionals the lack of knowledge is blatantly obvious. The insurance adjusters have no clue how to properly value a bicycle. They have no idea what it is like to ride a bicycle on the roadways with vehicles. The insurance company really has zero understanding of the local bicycle laws as well. This bias is real and it affects how they undervalue many bicycle cases.

The ignorance of the insurance industry is evident in their processing of bicycle claims. It takes an experienced bicycle accident lawyer to help with these issues. Be careful out there when dealing with an insurance adjuster. They probably have no idea what a derailleur is, or how Dura Ace is better than Ultegra. And forget it if you have Di2 – they’ll think you’re cracking a Star Wars joke.

The Jury: Never a Cyclist

As you can imagine, you will never get a cyclist on your jury. It will be a jury full of drivers. And like many other jury members, they are already angry that they got selected to be on jury duty and that their excuse for getting off was denied by the judge.

This is an uphill battle for sure. Yet, it is an issue that an experienced litigator who is also a cyclist can overcome. Most people on a jury have ridden a bicycle. Or they have a child or spouse or friend etc. who they would not want to see get hit by a giant 2,000lb vehicle. Relating with them is a skill. It is something a normal attorney will probably fail at. A cyclist and a national litigator on the other hand has the best chance at bridging this gap. That is why I get hired so often, I know intimitely what it is like to be a cyclist on these roads. I also know how to reach people on a normal human level – not on some stuff suit legal approach which most jurors meet with disdain.

Don’t leave your fate in the hands of less experienced advocate. Contact us today and we will help you.

This Bias Can be Defeated – You Can Do Something

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you can’t make any difference. This is not how this word has to be. Cyclists don’t have to be considered a plague. Drivers can actually gain more awareness. People can care more. First they must know more. People need to learn more about cyclists. We all need more protection as vulnerable users of these roadways.

Arizona needs better cycling laws. Arizona needs more advocates, more people willing to make a change. I know of several wonderful groups here locally that you can be a part of in Arizona. Each of these cycling organizations are non profits. Each of them are making real changes in our cycling community. Donate to them or sign up with them to get involved in their many many projects. Check them out:

  1. Greater Arizona Bicycle Association (GABA).
  2. Look Save A Life Arizona.
  3. Rob Dollar Foundation.

On a national note you can support and be a part of many great organizations. USA Cycling even holds a list of the most notable organizations. Some may even be close to you, the list is here: USA Cycling – Advocacy Division. Some of them include:

  1. People For Bikes
  2. League of American Bicyclists
  3. Team Share the Road
  4. World Bicycle Relief

Regardless of your experience as a cyclist, we are here for you. My practice is exclusively for cyclists. I manage a national network of cycling attorneys as well. I ride. I race. I advocate. I choose to live and ride. #mylawyerdoesntsuck #arizonabicyclelawyer #bicyclelawyer

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed Arizona bicycle accident lawyer, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

My lawyer doesn’t suck!” is something we often hear from our clients. How do they know? I’ll tell how you Jake knows… Jake is a recent client who hired us after his previous lawyer had taken the case as far as they could. With our unique skill set and aggressive representation we were able to get a 400% increase in settlement funds for Jake! That is 400% over and above what the previous lawyer got. This is a common story for us. It is one of countless experiences we share with our clients and one of the reason they each know that we are the best. #MyLawyerDoesntSuck

Often clients are afraid to hire a personal injury lawyer because they think that the 33% settlement fee taken by the lawyer is too high. In all honesty, I agree for some cases. There are a few smaller cases where it may not make sense for a lawyer to get involved. That is more rare then you think. It will come down to how much do you trust your lawyer to actually get you the highest dollar amount possible? Are you confident they will do everything necessary to maximize your settlement? Are they willing to actually go to trial or would they prefer to sit in their office in jeans and a polo shirt making some phone calls until the dollar amount is finally high enough for them to pay their rent that month?

The dirty secret in the personal injury world is that most lawyers are lazy. They haven’t been to court in so long they forget how to even dress for it not to mention what to actually do in the court room. Personal injury work is so volume driven that many lawyers are used to the comfortable setting of writing a few nasty letters and making a few nasty phone calls hoping for a decent enough settlement that they can then sell it to the client as a good ending to their case. Meanwhile, they fully know they aren’t maximizing the settlement. They essentially become pencil pushers. Stuck in a rut of volume based personal injury work with mediocre settlements at best.

Not us! Our bicycle crash attorneys are incredible. We show up to work every day dressed and ready for court. Why? Because we actually go to court very often for our clients. We are not lazy. Also, it is just a principle of showing up prepared for a battle with your best foot forward. It feels good to be ready. How do you think a soldier would feel if he showed to the front lines of a war dressed casually in street clothes? He may be a good soldier, but he wouldn’t feel like it that day. We stand out because we are good at our jobs, in fact we are the best bicycle crash lawyers in the entire country. We also stand out because we dress like it. #MyLawyerDoesntSuck

We work on cases likely 2-3x as long as casual mediocre law firms work on cases. We actually take cases to trial. We are not looking for the easy cash in a quick settlement. We look for the best possible outcome for our clients even if it means working on a case twice as long and filing a law suit. We ride bikes and we appear in court as regulars. Like in Jake’s case, we were able to get a 400% increase in settlement because we worked the case for over a 1.5 years, filed a law suit after the insurance company denied our requests and repeatedly offered us low settlement amounts, and we forced them into litigation- all with the single purpose of getting a real and meaningful settlement for our client. #MyLawyerDoesntSuck

We continually strive to sharpen our skills ad our education. Completing exclusive and expensive litigation training through the very best resources. I have recently completed additional certification of advanced trial skills through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy. These sessions were often one on one with the some of the most prestigious attorneys and judges in our country. Worth every penny, and makes me an even more skilled and bad ass attorney. #MyLawyerDoesntSuck

Choose your bicycle crash lawyer carefully. Choose the best bike accident attorneys in the country. Start here.

We are here for you. We got your back. We protect our own like you’re a member of our tribe.

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

Ben Dodge, NITA Advocate with Advanced Trial Skills Training

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. Ben is certified through the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) as having completed extensive litigation courses and has demonstrated these skills over and over again. Most lawyers are pencil pushers and shouldn’t be in a court room… not Ben Dodge. He is a gifted and aggressive litigator. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Yes cyclists have the right to be on the same roads as cars. Yes it is actually safer for cyclists to be on the road than on the sidewalks. So what about a cyclist coming to a red light and there is traffic stopped at a red light? Can the cyclist pull forward effectively passing the cars and positioning him/herself at the front of the line of stopped cars? Shakespeare once penned the lasting question of: “To be, or not to be: that is the question…” (Shakespeare, Hamlet Act III, Scene I).

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer, Race Across France

Now we adapt it “To Pull Forward OR Not to Pull Forward: that is The Question.” I am sure many of you cyclists have done this or are doing this pretty regularly. I am sure many of you drivers out there have seen cyclists sneak by you and move to the front of the line of cars while you’re stopped at the intersection. Is it legal?

The short answer is most states is NO. Cyclists may not do legally do this. One such example is here in Arizona: A.R.S.  28-812 specifically grants all of the rights and duties of drivers to cyclists while on the roadway. In other words, cyclists must follow and obey the rules of the roadway as a motor vehicle would also be obligated to. If you were in your car you wouldn’t try to maneuver it around the long line of cars just to get to the front of them while they are all stopped at the red light. Likewise a cyclist may not do that either. Instead the cyclist is obligated to pull behind the last car in his/her lane and wait for the light in turn like all the vehicles on the road. One obvious exception is when a cyclist is in a designated bike lane, then the cyclist may proceed forward.

Then why do so many cyclists just pull forward even though it is technically illegal? The answer is more simple than you might think. Although technically illegal, many cyclists feel it is much safer to pull forward around the cars and stop at the red light just in front of them so they can be certain the vehicles see them. Other cyclists do it because they mistakenly think it is legal. For most scenarios, it is actually a bit scary to stay in the lane of traffic at a red light, because as a cyclist you are not sure that the cars always see you in this spot as they are pulling up behind you. Also, it is actually much slower for the vehicles to have to navigate around the cyclists when they are in the lane of traffic stopped behind a line of cars when the light turns green. There have been many instances of cyclists getting side swiped by inattentive drivers in this exact scenario. When cyclists pull forward along the right hand side of the road and go to the front they can often ditch out to the side shoulder area in many intersections and be out of the way of vehicles all together.

Regardless of the reason it is technically not legal, and furthermore this sort of cycling behavior can unintentionally inflame the negative attitude of drivers towards cyclists. Unless there is a real blatant safety concern then cyclists must not pull forward around and ahead of stopped cars at a red light.

Let’s all be safe out there. Safety is everyone’s responsibility.

We are here for you. We got your back. We protect our own like you’re a member of our tribe.

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge, Bicycle Lawyer

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to Mesa, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Surprise, Kingman, Page, Lake Havasu City, Payson, Goodyear, Buckeye, Queen Creek, Paradise Valley, Show Low, Winslow, Maricopa, Nogales, Globe, Avondale, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Carefree, Wickenburg, Pinetop-Lakeside, Strawberry, Anthem, Safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded BikeAccidentAttorneys.com a National Network of independent and incredible bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

How Do You Know if Your Bicycle Lawyer is Scamming You?

There are 3 simple things to look at to see if your bicycle lawyer is scamming you? Lets expose the dirty secrets of the bicycle accident legal industry to you from an inside source: me.

So how do you know if you have the best lawyer? There are 3 things to investigate when hiring a bicycle lawyer that can help you avoid a scammer. Some of that depends on what you think the “best” really means. To me, it is simple. The “best” lawyer will get you to the most advantageous position possible with as little cost as possible. That’s it. Nothing else to it. I have seen too many lawyers give up or miss out on incredible opportunities for their clients because of their own egos arguing the irrelevant issues or pushing too hard in a direction that only generates their own fees as opposed to the results the client would rather have.

The most advantageous position is sometimes not even what the client comes in asking for. I can’t tell you how many times I probably talked myself out of a job in an initial consult because what the client wanted actually puts them in a worse position and I wasn’t afraid to tell them so. It would have been so much easier to just tell them what they desperately wanted to hear, help them feel heard and let them vent a little. All just tell them we better hurry up and rush to court so they can be vindicated. When in reality, that won’t help them at all. So that is what many lawyers do- they try to figure out what the client wants emotionally and then sell them a legal service that matches that emotional need and of course charge them for it based on whatever they think the client is able to pay.

Obviously not all attorneys are this cold-hearted. Many of us actually care. Many of us strive to do right by the client as opposed to just trying to do right by the pocket book.

Here are some general things to watch out for when looking for an attorney, especially a bicycle accident lawyer (I don’t like the word accident, I prefer “crash” – but most of the world uses the term accident and I understand why, so I sue it too). Here are the issues to watch out for:

1) Specific Knowledge

Do they have the specific knowledge required to handle your case? Just because they graduated from law school doesn’t mean they know anything about cycling! In fact, in my opinion, most of the country doesn’t know anything about cycling. It is crazy that all sorts of professionals from police offices charged with enforcing cycling safety to insurance adjusters responsible for finding fault don’t know anything about cycling laws. This is especially true with local rules, ordinances, and even more so with knowledge of local customs and implied expectations of cycling culture and more. Now fast forward to the moment when you are looking for an attorney to help you with your crash (your bicycle accident case) and you see a billboard on the side of the freeway, or a TV commercial, or even a Google search where the words cycling lawyer were used… How much specific knowledge of bicycle cases do you think they really have? Ask them how often they ride? Ask them what their favorite route is? Ask them if they could buy any bike on the planet what would it be and why? These questions will help you quickly identify if they are even remotely plugged into the cycling community and whether or not they have specific knowledge relating to cycling. Why is this important? SIMPLE- as a cyclist you already know that most people (drivers) hate that we are out on the roads. You already have an uphill court battle of public opinion. Being right on some traffic issue isn’t enough for us. Your lawyer must know this intimately in order to successfully navigate the complex negotiations of your case with the insurance company and opposing attorneys and then ultimately in a court room where you can bet no one on the jury will be a cyclist.

Also on the topic of specific knowledge. How many cases like this issue have they handled? What were the outcomes? How confident do you feel with their answers to these questions? Specific case knowledge is helpful. Do they have experience with the opposing insurance company? With that specific police department? With your judge? And on and on.

Specific knowledge is very helpful and you can’t buy it with expensive marketing on billboards, commercials, etc. It is earned with blood, sweat, and sometimes tears through years of experience.

2) Desk or Courtroom

The next thing to investigate is whether or not the attorney you’re thinking about hiring is a desk lawyer (I fondly refer to these lawyers as pencil pushers) or a courtroom lawyer. There is a need for all sorts of lawyers. But unless you are planning on having your bicycle accident attorney draft a will or some contract for you, then you want a courtroom lawyer not a pencil pusher.

I know this is a guess, but in my experience it seems like 95% of lawyers, especially the ones who end up on billboards and commercials, are just pencil pushers. Once their cases get to tough they refer them out to a real lawyer to finish the courtroom stuff for them. Most attorneys talk a big talk in their consult with potential clients about how good they are, but when push comes to shove and they have to actually prove it to you in a courtroom with you watching, their peers (opposing lawyers on the other side of your case) and in front of a judge and jury- they simply freak out and completely drop the ball or settle for less than you should ever take just to avoid the scary courtroom.

Don’t mistakenly hire a pencil pusher. Hire a bicycle accident lawyer who thrives in the courtroom. One simple question to help catch them off guard is ask them when is the last time they were in court? What was it about? What kind of hearing was it? What was the argument they proposed and made to the judge? How did it turn out? These simple questions will help you find out if they are pencil pushers or not. Their hesitation or odd answers are a dead give away that they are likely misleading you on their courtroom abilities and experience.

We are courtroom lawyers, sometimes even going multiple times per week to court. We file lawsuits, we don’t just write a few meaningless settlement letters and sell our clients on how good the settlement is- we prove it to our clients.

3) Do You Recognize Them from a Billboard or Commercial?

Yes I said that right, do you actually recognize them from a billboard or a TV commercial? Why is this even a thing? Well, it sounds harsh but those lawyers out there spending hundreds of thousands of dollars per year (for some they spend that per month) just to recruit new clients may be struggling to get their current and past clients to even refer to them… Yep, what if your lawyer was so good and you were so impressed that you happily sent business to him/or her? See how powerful that is? I’m not saying that everyone who advertises in our line of work is a horrible lawyer. What I am saying is that it is a bit suspect since advertising is NOT cheap and it begs the question as to why they have to advertise in the first place? Is their reputation with their own clients so bad that they have to find an alternative source to finding clients? Possibly. I’m one of those guys who avoids, in fact runs away from any professional I see on a billboard. I’d much rather consult a trusted friend and get their opinion as to whom I should see or NOT see based on their experience.

Not all lawyers who advertise are bad. But like I said, I personally run away from any professional on a billboard or TV commercial. A good old fashioned referral has always proved to be much better much more often. Just sayin’.

These are just 3 of the many things to look out for when you hire a bicycle accident lawyer. Call my office up and we can chat over the phone sometime about all the other million things to look out for like attorney billable hour quotas, bonus structures, professional reputation among peers, and so much more!

We are here for you. We got your back. We protect our own like you’re a member of our tribe. Good luck. Be safe out there and keep the rubber side down.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

 

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

How well do you know yourself? If you’re like me when I first started cycling you probably don’t know much at all. There is a real progression in the sport of cycling. It starts out with a beginner bike, or a borrowed bike of sorts from a friend. Then you get enough courage to buy your first real bike and its likely used slightly and you’re still shocked at the cost! After a while you are fully hooked and you buy a real nice carbon bike brand new. You can’t even imagine the days you were on an old clunky thing from Wal-Mart and you find yourself grateful that you have evolved to the understanding that it is perfectly OK for a bicycle to cost more than most college student’s cars!

This evolution also includes those accessories from the cycling kit, cycling computers, wheels, power meters, electronic shifting, and on and on and on. The more we ride the more we get sucked into the experience of it all and we learn that there is always so much more that we still don’t know. We learn that some accessories actually help us go faster, ride with more comfort and less pain, function better, sync to our networks with WiFi, or simply just help the overall ride experience feel better. Cycling is an amazing experience with layer upon layer of new information and upgrades. The technology changes so fast that every year the bicycle manufacturers are releasing some new frame, brake system, or shifting system that completely changes everything they have accomplished the year before. As I sit here and write this I do not find myself irritated or annoyed at the constant progression of the sport but rather find it all very exciting. There is just so much out there that can help us become better.

To this point I will write about my experience with metabolic testing. I am lucky enough to live near one of the best metabolic systems and testing methods/equipment in the country. Right here in Arizona there is a former pro cyclist and nutrition guru Anna (Sanders) Sparks. She formed Sparks Systems. Through this company anyone can get tested know their personal metabolic data. This data is so MUCH MORE IMPORTANT THAT YOU CAN POSSIBLY IMAGINE. Knowing this type of information and how it affects you is like the difference between a WWII bicycle and what we ride and race on now. It is just simply significant.

The nutshell version is you get to see whether or not your body burns carbs or fat as it’s primary fuel source on and/or off the bike. You also get to know exactly when your body switches from fats to carbs. You also get to know your exact and precise heart rate zones AND how to enlarge them. You get to know when exactly your body starts producing lactate acid at a level that your body can’t clear it out anymore and your legs start burn – AND how to enlarge it. You get to know exactly what your VO2 Max is and how it affects your training and what you can do to make progress with it. You also get to know your metabolic efficiency point (MEP) where you can with exactness know what exact bpm of your HR are most efficient in the burning of fats vs carbs. Other things are of course your power zones, and how many watts it takes before you hit your Lactate and Aerobic thresh holds.

I mean seriously- this info can change everything. Many of you know that I like to train and race in long distance non-stop ultra cycling challenges. Some of the races I have successfully completed include things like Saints to Sinners (522 miles – solo, 2nd place finish), Race Across the West (930.4 miles – solo, 9th place finish), Race Across France (1504 miles – 2 man team, 3rd place finish), and this coming summer in June of 2019 I will race in the Race Across America on a two man team with my incredible friend Tommy Liddell. We will race it as a two man team and will be hitting approximately 3,200 miles in 6.5 days. I love to ride, and I love to ride in extreme circumstances. But don’t let that thought scare you away from the importance of this data. Anyone who wants to be faster, never bonk again, race or ride without fatigue, and more can benefit from this type of data!

After testing you get to get the 411 so to speak on what it all means from Anna herself or someone under her employ. Armed with what all of this info means and their professional highly individualized advice to your personal situation on how to make improvements, then you can literally change it all up. The results are astounding and relatively quick. Most changes can be made in a matter of weeks.

Who wouldn’t want to increase their speed at lower HR zones? Or how many of us would give anything we had to be able to hang onto that fast group without feeling like our legs are catching fire and will fall as dead and heavy burnt little stumps?!

Below is a picture of the data I have been tracking on the last 5 tests I received. The important column is the middle test dated July 5, 2018. This is only about 2.5 months after my crash and clavicle surgery earlier that year. It is also only about 1 month before I had to go race in the Race Across France. The results of that test are depressing. It shows what lack of training can do. After my crash and surgery I immediately began training the best I could in my garage on my smart trainer. But it wasn’t that great, and it was certainly painful. The volume and quality of training certainly fell well below what I was used to doing and the testing beforehand shows the decline. In fact just about 1 month prior to the crash I tested and my results are on the 2nd column there dated March 2nd, 2018. That test was awesome. my fitness was amazing. But alas, a single wreck and surgery can change everything…

Applying what I know about the data and certainly following the careful guidance of Anna and her team at Sparks Systems, I was able to crawl back. Check out this chart and see the fitness. I pay particular attention to the HR Zones as these are pretty key in long distance cycling per my training focus on fat adaption etc.

Right before the Race Across France my Zone 2 was a dismal range of 106 bpm to 126 bpm. As of today my Zone 2 starts at 150 bpm and goes all the way to 170 bpm! This is an incredible change and it is a product of intention and creation. I get tested. I learn where I am at and then apply their principles to affect a change. So cool. I’m not even known as a geeky data guy at all, but this sort of thing I love to keep track of because it directly affects how well I am riding out there. I can actually feel the difference. It is awesome.

Check it out. Fly in and make an appointment. You don’t even need to bring your bike- the whole test is done on a stationary bike. Thank you Anna and Sparks Systems for an incredible journey. I look forward to the next few months! Check them out here: https://www.sparkssystems.net/

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

 

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben competed in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. This was a non stop 1500+ mile race across the entire country of France. He and his teammate finished 3rd. He is registered for a 2 man Race Across America (RAAM) team as well in 2019.

The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases. Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • Your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • The applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • Your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • The process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • The value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

There is no such thing as accidental success. Period.

Success in cycling is no different than success in business, family, and life in general. It doesn’t happen by accident. I have been blessed with some amazing experiences and associations with some truly incredible people. I have found that in order to be truly successful you must create your success. It doesn’t matter if you competitively race or just enjoy riding. Your success in your joyful rides are subject to the same principles of success that an avid competitor must follow. It takes hard work, intention, commitment, determination, etc. Even the joy rider has to make sure to carve out time to ride, and not let every other challenge get in the way. Too many distractions in this world lead us away from our goals and our dreams. Even if you only dream of enjoying some decent fitness and the occasional group ride you will want to understand these principles of success.

Do you think you can get lucky? Maybe, but in my experience success is something you have to create. This world will not hand it to you. Your dreams don’t just magically come true and your life will only ever end in “happily ever after” because you work your @## off to create your dreams.

You can create success. And let me tell you, success begets more success. It doesn’t take untold riches or fame to finally be successful. It takes hard work, clear commitments, unflinching determination, and a ton of intention. Show me a successful person and I will show you these characteristics.

It is an absolute lie that some people are just born into success, or are born with a natural ability to be successful. If you are a human being and currently breathing then you have the power to choose. The power to create. The power to be successful. It is not some right reserved to the wealthy. It is not some gift only some special few athletes enjoy. Success is up to every one to create for themselves. In fact, I know some very wealthy individuals who are not even remotely successful. Their wealth was gifted to them. They are not successful they are merely living a lifestyle that was given to them. Imagine what these people could do if they were driven, determined, committed and intentional about being a better version of themselves today than they were yesterday? If they were driven to accomplish something today that was greater than their yesterday? You would then see some success start to be born and with their resources some pretty epic accomplishments.

I refuse to be average. I refuse to believe that the circumstances we are born into dictate our potential and our possibilities. I know that everyone can accomplish unbelievable and epic things. I know we can become incredible and dominate our space- whatever that space may be. Given enough time and determination in your commitment you can become the best at anything you want. YES, I said anything you want. I have experienced this time and time again in my own life and in the lives of those incredible people I associate with. Look at the Steve Jobs’ of the world, or the Facebook king, or Warren Buffet, Michael Jordan, and so on and so on. These titans did not accidentally get successful. They built an empire through hard work, determination, commitment, and lots of intention.

I’ll share two simple yet powerful personal examples out of my own life. While I have many of these stories, the two today seem appropriate and fun: one while I was a young scrappy high school kid and the other from just 2 years ago. When I was in high school I wanted to play on the boy’s volleyball team. In southern California the volleyball teams were incredible and well respected. Many players from my regional area went on to play in the Olympics, college, and pro teams. I tried out as a sophomore and made the junior varsity team. I never played a single game. I was terrible, legitimately terrible. The upside was I sat next to the coach every game. I really got to know him well. I also worked my butt off every day in practice and demonstrated my commitment and determination to be better. I am not sure if he took pity on me or what he was thinking, but he offered to personally coach me through the off season. With his mentoring and my determination to practice every single day, I tried out for the varsity team the next year and made it on the team as a starter. I remember falling a sleep at night with a volleyball in my hands while I laid in bed and practiced setting the ball to myself. I was committed. I was determined. And in that time period I became good enough to start on our varsity team. Our team went on to compete in the state championships and many of my teammates played college ball on scholarships. It was truly an incredible transformation.

On another occasion as an adult I weighed nearly 300 pounds and was absolutely tired of feeling fat and out of control. I recall getting into triathlons and cycling. I eventually and slowly lost most of my weight and competed in 8 full distance Ironman triathlons along with countless other halves, and Olympic distances. Eventually I competed as a solo cyclist in the Race Across the West. It is a 930 mile endurance cycling race from Oceanside CA to Durango CO. With a 96 hour time limit to complete this race in you are compelled to ride without stopping, or at least keeping your breaks to a bare minimum. There isn’t much sleep to speak of with most of us cycling the first 48 hours non stop, followed with the occasional 20-30 minute power nap every 24 hours later. In 2016 I was 1 of 9 finishers and I finished in the midst of incredible adversity. I suffered from some extreme fatigue in my neck and shoulder muscles eventually contracting a condition known as Shermer’s Neck. My head fell completely to my chest and I could not lift it of my own strength at about 400 miles into the race. The pain was incredible and I had another 500+ miles to go! I had passed out, I had extreme difficulty breathing and even coughed up blood several times. The days and the nights all seemed to merge together. I had thousands of opportunities to quit and even more reasons that would seem 100% justified. In fact many of my competitors quit for much less severe adversities than I suffered with.

My point is, that ordinary people can accomplish extra ordinary things. Success is becoming a little better than you were yesterday. Regression should be your worst enemy. Forward progression should be your relentless goal. Your success can never properly be measured against the standards of your peers or the cultural expectations of your society. Success is simply giving it your best and making damn sure that your best today is better than your best was yesterday; that is success. It is in a nutshell never settling but rather always striving for your full potential. And I assure you, whatever you have now- whoever you have become now- NO MATER HOW GREAT, is not yet your full potential. If you are a millionaire, then why not be a billionaire, if you are a billionaire, then why not be a trillionaire, etc. Keep reaching. Keep pushing. Keep fighting.

Success then does not happen by accident. You can’t accidentally wake up better. You have to work hard at it. You have to be awake to who you are and who you were. You have to be awake to what you want and where you are going. Then you must act intentionally to create that. You must be committed to it like its your last breath. You must go all in. There is no half way in commitment. Then match your commitment with a level of determination that can overcome any challenge you will face. It is not a matter of whether or not you will face adversity, it is a question of how you will handle it when it rains hell fire down on you whilst you are trying to smash your goals. Hard work alone is not enough. But when you harness hard work with intention towards a clear commitment matched with unflinching determination… well that is someone I’d bet my life is successful.

Tune out the naysayers. Ignore the haters. There will always be opposition. Some of this may even come from those closest to you. Starve these feelings and instead feed the beast within. That primal beast that is unsatisfied with what you have today and who you are today. Feed that beast that wants more and wants to be better. This is key to staying focused on what you know you want to do and become. Tune them out, and only listen to you. You’ve got this. You’re incredible. If you are reading this then you are breathing, so make the changes you know you need to make. I’ve got your back. I love hanging with incredible people- happy to chat about this any time. Call me, email me, message me, Instagram me, Facebook me, tweet me, YouTube me, whatever it takes- I’m here and I want to see you reach your potential.

 

 

 

 

 

Ben Dodge, Esq., Endurance/Ultra Cyclist

 

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben is competing in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

 

There are no shortage of supplements out there on the market that allegedly make you faster, stronger, lighter, and so on. It can be overwhelming and often conflicting to sort through all of this. After trial and error of many of these supplements I have found that a few of them are much more preferable  than others. Some are a must in my opinion, while others are pretty good. Some are even proscribed by doctors based on your individual blood work and what you may be deficient in.

I open up some of my latest blood work results, Doctor’s notes and recommendations, and my personal tote bag of supplements in this webinar. While I readily acknowledge whole foods are BEST, we are often imperfect humans who could use a little help in our nutritional demands while killing ourselves as athletes. Some of the supplements will be very specific to my metabolic and physiological needs as tested and recommended by my team of doctors. Many more are natural supplements that I recommend for ANY athlete to take to boost performance, recover quicker, and feel better.

Supplements Point of Facts

HUGE point of fact #1, in my opinion supplements are exactly that: supplements. They should not be used to replace clean eating and proper exercise. As cyclists we often get so hammered out there and our bodies take a lot of abuse. Eating clean, raw, and organic whole foods is the best thing we can do to make sure we get all of the nutrients we need. But in my experience I still fall woefully short of what my body needs. Supplements help. Point of fact #2, make sure you are taking what you actually need and no more. Go see a physician or two. Get blood work done. Know for sure what if any your body is lacking. I see 3 doctors who all play a separate role. In fact, I fly up to Seattle Washington every 2-3 months to see one doc in particular who I feel is so amazing that it is worth my time to do so. Point of fact #3, I have experience with some supplements but obviously not all. I welcome comments and questions and suggestions for what you are taking. I only discuss those that I typically use right now at this stage of my cycling experience as a fat adapted endurance/ultra cyclist. There are others that didn’t make the recording on this webinar that I take regularly (i.e. Vitamin C).

Enjoy the webinar below, type comments and questions in and I’ll be happy to answer them the best I am able.

Webinar

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/AWVr3m0LEsk

PDFs & Handouts

dahlgren-notes-for-endurance-cyclist-ben-dodge_1217

7-17-blood-work Test

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_facebook][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_googleplus][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_tweetmeme][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]-Ben Dodge, Esq., Founder of Bike Accident Attorneys PLC

 

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[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][mk_social_networks size=”xx-large” icon_color=”#dd3333″ icon_hover_color=”#eeee22″ align=”center” facebook=”https://www.facebook.com/BikeAccidentAttorneys/” twitter=”https://twitter.com/bikelawben?lang=en” google_plus=”https://plus.google.com/u/0/+BenDodgeBicycleLawyer” linkedin=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-dodge-bicycle-lawyer/” youtube=”https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjvYjLeSB07VRbCvCL9Zkw”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben Dodge, Esq. Ultra Cyclist

Ben Dodge – Bicycle Lawyer

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben is competing in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

I saw an interesting t-shirt for sale today on FaceBook and couldn’t help how it precisely captures the mindset of so many people I come into contact with through my business as a bicycle accident lawyer.

As a committed cyclist and a dedicated bicycle crash lawyer I find it completely disturbing how little people seem to care about cyclists. Trust me I am not ranting here, just perplexed and disturbed. After months of litigating several different bicycle cases recently the over arching feeling in every deposition, every phone call with a defense attorney or insurance adjuster, and even today on a sunny afternoon ride is: Shhhhhh no one cares.

It’s as if everyone knows they should care about cyclists getting hurt, but in the end they all but admit they don’t care and even want to blame cyclists for the crime of riding a bike on the same road a car might travel. Of course that is no crime. But in the eyes of so many it is an all out assault to their right to drive if anyone on the road is slower than they are. I get it. I promise I really get it. I may or may not have lost my patience on more than one occasion while driving in areas of sunny Arizona where there may be an influx of retirees. But frustration is not even by a long shot any justification for hitting a cyclist nor is it a productive way to feel while driving.

Just today I was descending a well ridden road by cyclists in South Phoenix Arizona in South Mountain Park. I was nearly hit twice as drivers boldly crossed the double yellow line into my lane of traffic while out of frustration they aggressively and carelessly passed other cyclists in their lane. Each time the drivers holding up their hands and yelling in the car as if I was in their way! They illegally passed a cyclist and crossed a double yellow line almost hitting me just to get on their way a few seconds faster. And of course they blamed the cyclists for their inconvenience. What an over inflated sense of entitlement.

Driving with frustration like this leads to tragedy. On this very road not long ago an incredible cyclist and all round amazing human being was hit and killed on this very road by a young woman who also carelessly crossed the double yellow line. If a driver doesn’t hit and kill you with this sort of frustration and aggressive and careless driving, then you may end up permanently injured. If you’re lucky you may just end up having a close call like I did today.

What happens next? What happens after the dust settles and the legal case is over? What happens if it was merely a close call? I will tell you no matter the result, a close call, permanent injury or death, it seems that eventually the feeling in the room or the feeling of the drivers out there ever remains: Shhhhh no one cares. The drivers still drive carelessly, aggressively, and do everything they can to blame cyclists. Insurance adjusters, defense attorneys, and law makers still ignore the realities and dangers our current laws which do not protect cyclist enough. They still pretend that it isn’t that big of a deal since the collision was really just an accident and it was with a bicycle. I want to be crystal clear; that is a total lie that society wants us to believe. Lots of people care!

So listen, I don’t accept this mentality. I don’t accept our current legal state of affairs I don’t accept the blatant disregard for cyclists, for the lack of laws protecting them as vulnerable users of the roadways. I don’t accept that cyclists are inferior or at fault simply because they are exercising their right to use the roadway. I have a zero tolerance policy for drivers with entitlement and patience issues relating to cyclists. I am committed to changing this culture, the legal landscape as we know it, and serving and protecting cyclists. I am proud to be a bicycle accident attorney.

Next time you have a “close call” with one of these drivers or you encounter an attitude or paradigm of shhhhh no one cares then I challenge you to do something about it. Be someone who cares. Be someone who makes a difference.

For those of you who have been injured, or have lost a loved one in a bicycle wreck – please know that there are lots of us who care. This ridiculous mind set of shhhhh no one cares is simply NOT TRUE within our cycling community. I have witnessed so many random acts of kindness within the cycling community. Cyclists take care of each other, and look after one another. There is a bond of friendship formed and a strong community established with cycling. If you want to make some sincere and true friends who are incredible and who will inspire you to be better then get a bicycle and join a local bike club.

Loads of people care; and we are going to do something about it every single day!

-Ben Dodge

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Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben Dodge, Esq. Ultra Cyclist

Ben Dodge – Bicycle Lawyer

A bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. He can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire United States. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the world. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West 2016, he really knows what it’s like to ride and race a bike. Ben is competing in the first ever Race Across France – 2018. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the United States every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important, but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your rights as a cyclist, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. There is never an obligation past a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback Rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Many states have a safe 3 foot passing law required by motorists to pass/overtake bicycles. However, there are misconstrued exceptions and wrong interpretations that may leave you as a cyclist in the lurch. Know your rights for when you are protected and when you are NOT.

Lets break it down starting with the basics first. Arizona’s 3 foot passing law is found in A.R.S. 28-735. The basic gist is that a motorist is required to leave a safe distance of “not less than three feet” when overtaking a bicyclist. Want to venture a guess as to how often that happens? Yeah, like almost never. How about this interesting twist… a motorist can be fined for violating this law if he/she causes a serious physical injury up to $500, and only $1,000.00 for killing the cyclist. Wait for it, wait for it, it gets worse: then the notable exception found in subsection C where no fine is prescribed if there was a bicycle lane or path present and passable. Yep you got it, a motorist can violate this law subsequently hitting and killing a cyclist that is legally in the traffic lane (say turning left, etc.) and the driver won’t even be fined. Of course, the general 3 foot law traffic citation could still be given but no fines allocated in that scenario. CRAZY! No one ever said its fair, but it is the law.

Here is the full text of the Arizona 3 Foot Passing Law found in A.R.S. 28-735:

28-735. Overtaking bicycles; civil penalties

A. When overtaking and passing a bicycle proceeding in the same direction, a person driving a motor vehicle shall exercise due care by leaving a safe distance between the motor vehicle and the bicycle of not less than three feet until the motor vehicle is safely past the overtaken bicycle.

B. If a person violates this section and the violation results in a collision causing:

1. Serious physical injury as defined in section 13-105 to another person, the violator is subject to a civil penalty of up to five hundred dollars.

2. Death to another person, the violator is subject to a civil penalty of up to one thousand dollars.

C. Subsection B of this section does not apply to a bicyclist who is injured in a vehicular traffic lane when a designated bicycle lane or path is present and passable.

It should be mentioned that the minimum safe distance of not less than three feet (subsection A) applies to all streets in Arizona regardless of configuration or bicycle position. Streets in Arizona come in all kinds of varieties. Some have shoulders and some do not; some have designated bicycle lanes but most do not. Some streets are paved and some are not. Some streets are divided into lanes and some are not. You get the picture? If you are a cyclist on a street in Arizona then you have a right to be passed by a motorist with a minimum safe distance of not less than three feet. Period. End of story. Additional fines only don’t apply if you are in a traffic lane when there is a passable bicycle lane – again even if that is a legal place to be riding your bicycle.

What about a lane where it is not possible for a motorist to safely share the lane with you on your bicycle and still leave a minimum safe distance of not less than 3 feet? Lets be honest, some lanes if not most are simply not wide enough for this. So what then? Easy, the motorist is required to leave a safe distance of not less than 3 feet to pass you; so he or she must change lanes to legally pass you. Ir alternatively slow down and not pass until the lane width and safety permit a minimum of three feet distance. End of story. However, I highly recommend in that scenario for the good will of the cycling community and the safety of the cyclist that it may be wise to safely slow down and pull over (perhaps stopping) to allow the driver to pas you. This being the case even if necessary to temporarily dismount the bike and exiting off the street allowing for the minimum safe distance of three feet. If you are lucky enough to have a motorist behind you who knows this law and is abiding by t and your cycling is therefore causing a line up of cars to build up behind you then exit the road way and create your own three feet of space. Better that then get buzzed by lots of angry motorists zooming their way past the one car slowly following you waiting for three feet to show up.

On a final and sad note, there is reason to believe that only a few handful of these citations have ever been issued by the police here in Arizona since the bill passed in 2000. In a few notable fatality cases out of Tucson there have been glaring and obvious omissions of these citations where police reportedly forgot to even issue them. Luckily there is one documented case out of Scottsdale where a cyclist was hit and killed and it was reported that the driver plead guilty to violating the 3 foot law and was issued the maximum fine. Clearly we feel that this citation should be freely issued and investigated in nearly every bicycle wreck involving a vehicle and a cyclist. It should be looked at hard and then ruled out as oppose to omitted from the investigation entirely.

Summary: you are protected in Arizona by a Three Foot Safe Passing Law. By “protected” I mean there is a law out there that should be working in your favor but is likely never invoked by your local authorities. Secondly, even if invoked you are not protected by the motorist having to pay a fine if you were in a traffic lane while struck and there was a designated bicycle lane or path – in this scenario no fines to the motorist. Even if the cyclist was legally in the traffic lane when struck. Finally, the fines which I did not address in detail are so low they don’t adequately protect the vulnerability of cyclists and are therefore no deterrent at all for motorists to really give cyclists any space. I.e. A motorist can blatantly violate this law and cause serious injury to you nly to get fined $500, kill you and only get fined $1,000.

At least we have a three foot law… would be an even bigger disappointment if we didn’t.

-Ben Dodge

Keep the rubber side down!

 

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben-&-BikeA bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know were injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. Ben can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire united states. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the country. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West, 2016, he really knows what it is like to ride and race a bike. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches the police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the united states every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your cyclist’s rights, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of bike accident attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. there is never an obligation for a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

Finally settled for full policy limits with an insurance carrier who for months has denied any and all liability. Said insurance company hit and nearly killed our client while riding his bicycle in his neighborhood. Our client, who was 13 years old at the time, was hurt so badly that he had multiple brain surgeries and extensive medical procedures done just to attempt to save his life over the course of about a year.

After months and months of treatment this young boy not only lives but has made a seemingly full recovery! He is literally an inspiration to me and to many others. His case on the other hand was complicated from the start. The insurance company quite predictably tried to blame the young boy for the accident and refused any liability even from the very beginning.

The mother had actually retained another law office prior to consulting with me as a member of the National Bike Accident Attorneys Network. I recall listening to her story of the frustration she encountered and the roadblocks set up immediately by the insurance carrier. I remember thinking to myself that this case was going to be difficult and that without a committed and experienced bicycle lawyer this family would likely be stuck with significant medical bills. I was right.

We had a great conversation and she instantly agreed that our firm was a much better fit as all we handle are bicycle crash cases. We accepted the case and immediately went to work. After reviewing thousands of pages of documents provided to us by our client’s diligent mother it became clear that we were facing potential medical bills well over a million dollars and an insurance carrier that refused all liability. This was going to be a tough case with a high probability of my firm not getting paid a cent.

The policy limits in this case ended up being around $120K. Even if were to be successful in proving liability we had a massive medical bill issue as the liens alone were close to a million dollars. This is when as an attorney you have to be committed to your client more than to making a buck. Ask yourself as a client this important question: How committed is my lawyer? Will he/she do everything in his/her power to protect my interest or will they give up when it looks like they won’t make any money? If you even sort of hesitate with your answer then run away, and run away fast. Sadly, the personal injury side of the legal industry is full of greedy attorneys that only look for the quick buck or the big cases.

 

Obviously I am committed. I have been told many times that I am the most committed and determined person that most people will ever meet. Here is how this story goes condensed for your reading pleasure:

  • We rolled up our sleeves and went to work. Inviting the mother who already proved to be a valuable asset to help us dig up anything we could on the driver. We were all convinced that this girl driving the car was very distracted or she couldn’t have possibly hit our client.
  • Face Book SelfieWorking closely with the mother, we uncovered some damning photos posted on social media (Face Book) where this driver not only like taking selfies of herself in the car, but she may even have been addicted to “driving selfies”. She had posted hundreds of selfies while driving on her FB account. We downloaded every single one of them for use with her insurance carrier. Some of these pictures are posted here with her face blurred out to protect her identity (notice one of them even while she had her infant son in her car – yikes!).
  • Finally after proving liability sufficiently to the insurance carrier (the FB pictures proved to be most helpful) they agreed to settle at full policy limits. So far, no other firm was able to even get this far or was even willing to work this hard knowing that the medical bills far outweighed the settlement at 11:1. With over $1,000,000.00 in medical bills/liens and only $120,000.00 to spread around for our clients we rolled up our sleeves and went to work knowing that at the end of the day we would be lucky to get the medical bills even half paid for our clients and all this for free as there was not enough money to even pay a fee to our firm. That didn’t matter. We were committed to our clients regardless of our eventual payout.
  • After months of head banging negotiations we succeeded in getting $1,000,000.00+ in medical bills and liens waived and reduced to a total of about $35K! Our client was able to know that not only did he not have to worry about bills he could never pay, but now he had some money left over for a college fund. Awesome day.

Thank you Face Book. Thank you for making this case possible. 😉

Moral of the story: 1) Don’t post stupid pictures or comments on FB; and 2) if you ever get hurt in a bicycle crash make sure you find a bicycle lawyer more committed to you than to his/her own pocket book.

How committed is your attorney?

-Ben Dodge, Keep the rubber side down!

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben-&-BikeA bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know were injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. Ben can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire united states. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the country. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West, 2016, he really knows what it is like to ride and race a bike. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches the police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the united states every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your cyclist’s rights, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of bike accident attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. there is never an obligation for a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and has founded a national network of independent bicycle lawyers that can assist in representation in all 50 states.

In Arizona landscape companies are literally on every street and every corner with their large trucks and tow behind trailers parked in bike lanes, in traffic lanes, on top of sidewalks and just about everywhere you can imagine.

There is little regard for the safety of cyclists when these companies park their trucks and trailers. In fact, there is little regard for their own equipment as they just haphazardly and lazily park where it is most convenient for their landscaping tasks. Its as if they don’t want to walk “too far” when exiting their truck and trailers to jump on their sit down powered mowers or to trim some trees/bushes. Their trucks and trailers are littered through the streets, bike lanes, and sidewalks of Arizona making it very dangerous for cyclists. Bicycle accidents and crashes involving landscape trailers are sadly a common occurrence in Arizona.

Occasionally it is a landscape trailer or landscape truck that drives into or over a cyclist while turning or parking. And other times it can be dangerously parked landscape truck and trailer that proves nearly impossible for a cyclist to avoid crashing into it.

Landscape TrailerRecently we just finished our representation of a dear family who fatally lost a loved one in a bike crash with a dangerously parked landscape trailer. Initially the landscape company denied all liability trying to blame the cyclist for running into a parked landscape trailer. They played the blame game saying that it must be the cyclist’s fault since the trailer was parked and not moving. Of course they were wrong. After about a year they began to realize that their employees shouldn’t have parked so recklessly and dangerously in the traffic and bike lane. They began to realize that if so parked they really ought to have placed some traffic cones out or at least turned on hazard lights to warn other traffic (including cyclists) that they were dangerously parked there. They began to realize that they force cyclists into dangerous and compromising positions with oncoming traffic.

This was a difficult and sensitive case but eventually the landscape company agreed to settle out of court. Our clients, the family of a loved cyclist in town, were finally able to start to put this nasty and fatal wreck behind them. Moving forward we are eager to help put in place safer traffic laws and regulations to help protect cyclists against such reckless and intentionally dangerous parking practices of landscape companies.

Our advice, be safe out there and be alert to landscape companies because they are not aware of you.

-Ben Dodge

Bicycle crash and bicycle accident lawyer Ben Dodge

Ben-&-BikeA bicycle crash is not always an accident. If you, or someone you know were injured in a bicycle crash or accident caused by a road hazard or dangerous road condition, hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced and has a successful track record. Ben Dodge, a licensed bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona, has dedicated his entire firm to one purpose: representing cyclists. Bicycle accident cases are the only cases Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC handles. Home based out of the great state of Arizona, Ben can still help cyclists in the entire United States. Ben also founded Bike Accident Attorneys Network, a national network of attorneys who focus on representing cyclists. Ben can find you help anywhere in the country.

Ben Dodge has represented and assisted bicycle accident victims across the entire united states. As an avid and competitive cyclist himself, Mr. Dodge currently participates in national and local cycling events all over the country. It isn’t uncommon to spot him in early morning hours out riding his bike. Having competed in 8 Ironman triathlons, numerous local and national cycling races, and a successful finish in the Race Across the West, 2016, he really knows what it is like to ride and race a bike. The day he fell in love with his job was the day he devoted himself completely to bicycle accident cases.

Ben represents cyclists injured in bicycle accidents, at the police station, with insurance companies, and in the courts. He advocates for the rights of all cyclists, not just his clients. He teaches the police about bike laws and bike safety, he educates drivers about the rules of the road, and he trains cyclists and clubs to ride more safely.

A consultation with experienced Arizona bicycle accident attorney Ben Dodge is free

In recent years there has been approximately 700 bicycle fatalities in the united states every single year. Approximately 2,000 bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. approximately 30 fatal bicycle accidents are reported in Arizona every year. Bicycle fatalities are terrible and horrific tragedies that affect the lives of too many families and friends to count. Understanding your rights and obligations as a cyclist can bring clarity to your specific accident situation. It will always be in your best interest to be represented by an attorney who knows the bicycle laws and has a successful track record of winning bicycle accident cases. The negotiation tactics and strategies of winning a case are extremely important but should always take a back row seat to the litigation experience and knowledge of court room rules, local, state, and federal rules of civil procedure that can have significant impact on your bicycle accident case. It is wise to be represented by someone well versed in bicycle accident law, local and state bicycle ordinances, rules, regulations, policies, and laws. You should hire someone very familiar with negligence and tort law, civil procedure, and the rules of evidence as they all relate specifically to bicycle accident cases.

Ben Dodge always offers a complimentary in person consultation to all local cyclists and a complimentary phone consultation to any cyclist injured in a bike accident. Typically the consultations are schedule from 30-60 minutes depending on the severity of the accident. You can expect to get answers to questions, clarity, information, and reassurance of your personal bike accident liability and potential for recovery. In your free consultation you can generally expect to discuss such topics as:

  • your specific bike accident details, diagrams, and pictures from your perspective and then from the perspective of your bike accident attorney.
  • the applicable local, state, and federal laws underlying your case.
  • your cyclist’s rights, obligations, and any potential liability.
  • the process, procedure (in and out of court), and the time frame required to conclude your case.
  • the value of your case and what you might expect as compensation.

You can call Arizona bicycle lawyer Ben Dodge of bike accident attorneys, PLC at 1.855.663.3922. Mr. Dodge’s staff is standing and ready to accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year. Ben will personally return your call within 24 hours. there is never an obligation for a complimentary consultation with Mr. Dodge. His passion is in representing cyclists and his entire office stands ready to serve with kindness and patience.

Bike Accident Attorneys, PLC

Call Ben Dodge, the Bicycle Lawyer today at 1.855.663.3922. Reach him by fax at 1.800.958.8902.

Mr. Dodge can also be reached by email at ben@bikeaccidentattorneys.com

His main Arizona offices are located at:

Mesa Arizona (home base office)
4824 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 124
Mesa, Arizona 85206

Phoenix Arizona office
2415 e. Camelback rd., suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

Tucson Arizona office
One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor
Tucson, Arizona 85701

Mr. Dodge represents cyclists in the entire state of Arizona including but not limited to mesa, phoenix, tucson, yuma, gilbert, peoria, glendale, scottsdale, ahwatukee, tempe, chandler, prescott, sedona, flagstaff, surprise, kingman, page, lake havasu city, payson, goodyear, buckeye, queen creek, paradise valley, show low, winslow, maricopa, nogales, globe, avondale, cave creek, fountain hills, apache junction, carefree, wickenburg, pinetop-lakeside, strawberry, anthem, safford, and more. Ben Dodge is currently involved with bicycle accident cases all over the country and can assist in representation in all 50 states.