Serious bicycle accidents happen more frequently than people realize. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the number of bicycle accident fatalities has been increasing over the last decade, with an average of around 800 deaths yearly. Also, injury-only bicycle crashes are estimated to be around 45,000 annually.
The aftermath of a bicycle accident can change your life instantly. You may be overwhelmed with medical bills and physical pain. In these moments, having an experienced bicycle accident attorney by your side is important for the following reasons.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
You may be confused about what you are legally entitled to after a bicycle accident. Many cyclists do not realize that they have the same rights as drivers on the road or that they could hold another party responsible for their injuries.
A lawyer will help you understand your rights and explain how the laws apply to your situation. Whether the accident was caused by a negligent driver, unsafe road conditions, or even faulty bike equipment, an attorney will guide you through the legal framework and ensure you are treated fairly.
Dealing With Claims Adjusters
Dealing with claims adjusters can be incredibly frustrating. They might seem friendly at first, but the truth is, they are hardly on your side. If you handle negotiations alone, you could unknowingly say something that hurts your claim or accept a very low settlement.
A personal injury lawyer knows how these companies operate. They will speak on your behalf, push back against unfair offers, and make sure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Proving Liability and Gathering Evidence
Proving the party at fault after a bicycle accident is not always straightforward. In some cases, there might be no witnesses, or the other party can straight up deny responsibility. A lawyer will know what evidence to look for:
- Traffic camera footage
- Eyewitness statements
- Police reports
- Accident reconstruction experts, when needed
This experience can mean the difference between having a weak case or a solid one that shows what happened and who should be held accountable.
Calculating the True Value of Your Claim
When you are injured in a bicycle accident and bills are quickly piling up, it might be very tempting to settle quickly and put the whole ordeal behind you. However, doing this could leave you short on funds when you need them most.
A lawyer will assess your immediate medical expenses and long-term costs like physical therapy, lost wages, and the emotional toll the accident has taken on you. They make sure every angle is considered so that you do not settle for less than what you’re entitled to.
Navigating the Legal Process
Filing a claim, dealing with legal documents, and attending court hearings are, quite frankly, a lot to handle when you have to recover from serious injuries. A lawyer will take care of all the legal heavy lifting. They will file paperwork correctly and on time.
Additionally, they will keep you updated and represent you if the case goes to trial. With their help, you will not have to worry about missing a deadline or making a costly mistake.
Peace of Mind
Apart from a lawyer improving your chances of getting fair compensation, they also give you peace of mind. During this difficult time, you can focus on healing, knowing someone with the right experience and the best interests at heart is handling the legal side of things.
Conclusion
You do not have to go through all the legal technicalities alone after getting injured in a car accident. A lawyer will help you get the compensation you deserve. Additionally, you will always have someone in your corner supporting you.
