Finding Legal Help After the Crash

Cyclists finding legal help and happy marriages thanks to legal network

Here are two cases of people who were injured or killed while cycling and the results of their cases. If you need legal advice from a lawyer who knows cycling find one at our legal directory.

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Dear League:

In early April, a jury convicted Anthony Gerike of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide in the deaths of two popular local cyclists in July 2006. The evidence that led to his conviction included the testimony of the State's forensic toxicologist that Mr. Gerike had alcohol, cocaine and marijuana in his system. This case has been followed by the Cincinnati Cycle Club, with several members attending parts of the trial. I've been discussing this case with the prosecutor, who is encouraging cyclists to send letters relative to their thoughts on sentencing to her, which she will pass along to the judge for the May 31 sentencing hearing. The judge may also allow community members to speak at the sentencing hearing and I am hopeful of being able to participate there as well. I've been in touch with a writer at the Cincinnati Enquirer who's going to do a big story on the sentencing, the families and the cycling community.

One thing I think the LAB, and the legal team the LAB has put together, can do in cases like this is to monitor criminal cases, advise the cycling community of what is going on and provide assistance in keeping these cases in the public's eye. In a case like this, where we can have input at sentencing, it is good to have folks do so. Judges read our letters and strong, passionate, reasonable arguments from the community can definitely sway the courts to issue longer sentences.

Steven M. Magas
Phillips Law Firm, Inc.
9521 Montgomery Road
Cincinnati, OH 45242
(513) 484-BIKE [2453]
(888) 883-2600 (Toll Free)
bikelawyer@aol.com
www.bicycleattorney.com

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Amanda Benedict [mailto:amanda@amandabenedict.com]
Sent: Thursday, October 19, 2006 9:23 PM
To: League Staff
Subject: Need information regarding Personal Injury Lawyer for cyclist

In June, you forwarded me someone who needed help after a cycling accident. I just wanted to thank you for the referral and to let you know there was a positive outcome for Bill, the cyclist. First off, Bill and Shrai are two wonderful people and it was a pleasure working with them. As Shrai mentioned, Bill was severely injured in this accident. Fortunately, he was wearing a quality helmet and is making a great recovery. We were able to obtain a favorable settlement with the insurance company that will cover all of Bill's expenses relating to the accident (and then some). With good fortune shining on Bill and Shrai, there will be no "hobbling" as he walks down the aisle at their upcoming wedding.

Please continue to encourage all your members to always wear helmets. In Bill's case, the ER doctors stated that if Bill had not been wearing a properly fitted helmet, he would not be alive. The impact his helmet was able to absorb and disburse was simply incredible. I had chills the first time I examined his fractured & dented helmet. Bill donated the helmet to me for use at area health fairs to stress the importance of helmets to kids and cyclists.

Keep up the great work!
Sincerely,

Amanda F. Benedict
Appeals & Bicycle Accident Litigation
(619) 236-0054 (phone) / (619) 236-0153 (fax)
law@amandabenedict.com

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