Although bicycle accidents are not as common as other types of traffic collisions, they often cause serious injuries when they do occur. A bicycle and rider stand virtually no chance in a collision with a motor vehicle, whether a small passenger car or a large commercial truck. The rider of the bicycle may experience catastrophic, life-changing injuries. Even wearing a helmet and other protective gear, the rider will likely be injured, even in a relatively low-speed collision. However, the extent of the injuries sustained will vary, depending on the particular incident.
Our legal team can help you navigate this legal matter by handling all communication with the at-fault party’s insurer and negotiating toward a fair settlement. Chances are that the compensation offered would not even cover your medical expenses, much less the other damages. With the legal understanding of this topic and the resources to properly investigate your personal injury claim, the legal team at the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote could assist you in recovering fair compensation. Call us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Bicycle accidents are often the result of negligence and are usually avoidable. These are some of the most common causes:
When drivers are distracted and not paying attention to the road, they might not see a bicyclist on the street, resulting in an accident.
When motorists are driving too fast, it limits their reaction time, which could make them more likely to hit a bicycle.
If a driver runs a red light or stop sign when a bicycle has the right of way, it could cause a terrible collision.
Drivers must check their blind spots before changing lanes, or they could easily miss a bicycle.
While fender benders between two passenger vehicles are generally not catastrophic, rear-end accidents with bicycles can be, which is why drivers should leave a big enough buffer if a bicyclist is ahead of them.
There are some crucial steps you should take after a bicycle accident to protect your well-being and your chances of successfully filing a claim:
What should I do immediately after being involved in a bicycle accident?
What are the common causes of bicycle accidents?
How can I determine if I have a valid legal claim after a bicycle accident?
What types of compensation can I seek after a bicycle accident?
How does insurance coverage factor into bicycle accident claims?
What should I do if the driver's insurance company contacts me after a bicycle accident?
What distinguishes a proficient bicycle accident attorney in handling legal claims?
After a bicycle accident, prioritize your safety and seek medical attention for injuries. Move to a safe location and exchange contact and insurance information with the other party. It's also essential to gather evidence by taking photos of the accident scene and obtaining contact information from any witnesses.
Common causes of bicycle accidents include driver negligence, such as failure to yield, distracted driving, speeding, and opening car doors in the path of cyclists. Poor road conditions, defective bicycle components, and inadequate signage or road markings can also contribute to accidents.
Determining the validity of a legal claim after a bicycle accident involves assessing factors such as the cause of the accident, the extent of injuries, and liability. If the accident resulted from the negligence of another party, such as a motorist or entity responsible for road maintenance, you may have a valid legal claim.
After a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and, in some cases, punitive damages. An experienced bicycle accident attorney can assess the full scope of damages applicable to your case and work towards securing fair and comprehensive compensation.
Insurance coverage is critical to bicycle accident claims, as it can provide financial protection for injured cyclists. Understanding the complexities of insurance coverage, including the at-fault party's liability coverage and potential uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, is essential for maximizing your benefits.
If the driver's insurance company contacts you, it's essential to be cautious about providing recorded statements or signing documents without consulting a bicycle accident attorney. Insurance adjusters may seek to minimize the value of your claim, so having legal representation can help protect your rights and ensure that you are not taken advantage of during the claims process.
A proficient bicycle accident attorney possesses the knowledge, experience, and resources to effectively advocate for your rights and pursue the maximum compensation available. At Stipe & Belote Personal Injury Law, we’re proud to have helped many clients with bicycle accident cases and are here to be your guide. Contact us today for a consultation.
