Motorists often do not share the road with cyclists.  Worse yet, some motorists detest the presence of cyclists on the roads so much, that they swerve towards the cyclist, intending to scare them, run them off the road, or even to injure them.  Cyclists deserve to ride on the roads just as much as cars deserve the right to drive on them.  But the consequences of a motor vehicle hitting a cyclist can be catastrophic.  Lycra, spandex, and carbon fiber are no match for a multi-ton vehicle. 

A large portion of Hottman's personal injury practice is devoted to cyclists.  Whether hit by a car, run off the road by a car, attacked by a “road-raging” motorist, or knocked off the bike by an errant animal, Hottman has seen the injuries that cyclists sustain while out riding.  As a commuter and road cyclist herself, Hottman has experienced these behaviors herself while riding. 

Cyclists are very passionate about riding their bike -- whether it is a competitive cyclist preparing for a race season, or a recreational rider who commutes to work and enjoys cycling as their emotional outlet -- either way, when the ability to ride is taken from them, frustration is a predictable response.  As a competitive cyclist herself, Hottman knows how difficult it is to have an injury prevent her from riding.  

A cyclist is likely to experience moderate to extreme injury when hit by a car.  This results in medical bills associated with hospitalization, ambulance transport, physical therapy sessions, and more.  The cyclist may have to miss work for their recovery and doctor appointments.  Often their bike is damaged or destroyed.  Their cycling clothing, helmet, and accessories may be completely ruined.   The cyclist then incurs the hassle of having to purchase a new bike and new cycling equipment before they can resume riding again.