Bicycle accident victims face numerous issues after an accident, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and more. An experienced attorney can help victims calculate the appropriate compensation for their losses and pursue it with a liable party.
1. What to Do After an Accident
The first thing anyone involved in a bicycle accident should do is get out of harm’s way. For example, if your bicycle is stuck on the roadway, trying to move may lead to additional injuries.
Next, seek medical attention. Seeking treatment helps you recover from the physical harm you suffered and establishes the severity of your injuries for insurance companies and other parties that may become involved in your claim. Take pictures of the scene and of your injury, if possible. If there are witnesses, talk to them and obtain their names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance information.
If the vehicle’s driver and passengers can stay at the scene, ask them to provide their statements. Avoid talking to any insurance company before speaking to an experienced bicycle crash attorney, as what you say can be used against you later. They may even try to record your statement, which is not a good idea.
2. Filing a Claim
The first thing a person must do after a bicycle accident is to contact their insurance company. This is best done with an attorney specializing in bike accidents who can help with a bicycle accident claim so the victim gets the compensation they deserve. When a person files their claim, the next step is to prove their losses and injuries. This requires a significant amount of documentation and the help of a trained expert.
An experienced personal injury attorney can work with medical professionals and a cycling specialist to document the full extent of your losses. Economic damages are the primary form of compensation that victims can receive. These include medical bills, property damage, lost income, and more.
Pain and suffering are another significant form of compensatory damages that can be awarded to victims. This compensates the victim for mental anguish, physical pain, and diminished quality of life. It is difficult to determine the appropriate amount of this award so a lawyer can assist.
3. Collecting Evidence
Taking photographs of the accident scene, including weather conditions and skid marks, can be a powerful piece of evidence in a case. Video footage from a helmet cam can also be beneficial. If possible, talk to witnesses and get their contact information. Witness statements can be crucial in proving negligence.
Take note of the driver’s name, address, phone number, license plate number, make of car, and insurance policy number. Exchange this information with the driver and anyone else who witnessed the accident. Ask you to give your statement to the police.
This may not always be included in the official report, but a statement can help establish your version of events. Keep receipts and invoices for medical care, property damage, lost income, and other expenses related to the accident. These are special damages and can be recovered from liable parties.
4. Representation
When injured in a bicycle accident, you must focus on recovery and returning to your daily routine. However, if you have medical bills and other expenses mounting up, you may be worried about how to go about pursuing a claim against the motorist who hit you. A bicycle lawyer can help you determine what damages you deserve and how much your case is worth.
You can recover both economic and non-economic compensation. Economic damages are easily calculable and pertain to specific monetary losses, while non-economic damages cover less tangible losses like pain and suffering.
Bike accidents with vehicles often occur because of driver negligence. Speeding, running a red light or stop sign, or drifting into the bike lane are all examples of negligent behavior that could lead to a serious crash for a cyclist.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bicycle accident claims can be complex and overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and guidance, you can navigate through the process successfully. It is crucial to gather evidence, document your injuries, and seek medical attention immediately after an accident. Working with an experienced personal injury lawyers who specializes in bicycle accidents can greatly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation for your damages.
Remember to report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible. By taking these steps and being proactive in protecting your rights, you can ensure that justice is served. Don’t hesitate to reach out for legal assistance today if you have been involved in a bicycle accident.