Bicycle Accident Lawyer

 

How Should I Handle My Bicycle Accident?

bicycle accident lawyer in GreensboroBicycling is one of our nation’s favorite forms of exercise and getting outside.  Unfortunately, a bicyclist is by definition a very vulnerable target in a collision with a car or truck, and severe injuries and even death can easily result.  Interestingly, bicyclists must follow many of the same traffic laws as drivers of cars and are required to have certain types of lighting and reflective gear if cycling at night. If you are injured in a Greensboro Bicycle Accident, you should contact an attorney right away to make sure your rights are protected. Bicyclists are entitled to use the road to the same extent as motor vehicles, provided they keep to the far right of the travel lane. Greensboro and other major cities often will have dedicated bicycle lanes, but in the absence of such bicycle lanes, you may ride your bicycle in the right-most lane of travel.

Bicyclists can be injured when drivers:

-Fail to stay in their lane
-Attempt to pass the bicycle in an unsafe manner
-Are distracted by technology or other vehicle occupants
-Become aggressive with the slower-moving bicycle

personal bicycle injury attorney

In much the same way as motorcycle accidents, bicyclists often sustain more serious injuries like spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and wrongful death in accidents due to the lack of protection while riding. One way for bicyclists to protect themselves is to carry a significant amount of medical payments coverage in their automobile insurance policy. Medical payments coverage is a no-fault coverage that is available as a part of your automobile insurance policy which provides for payments if you or family members are struck by a motor vehicle in a collision. It is not required to be purchased by state law, but can provide you with significant peace of mind and protection in the event you are struck while cycling. Medical payments coverage can help you pay your medical bills immediately while you pursue the at-fault party’s liability coverage for your injuries. A Greensboro Bicycle Accident attorney can help you to identify policies with medical payments coverage which will cover you after a Greensboro Bicycle Accident.

The defense of contributory negligence applies when you are riding a bicycle, just as if you were driving a car. Since there are different laws that apply to bicyclists as opposed to motor vehicles, it is important to consult with a Greensboro Bicycle Accident attorney before giving a recorded statement to the at-fault party’s insurance company. They know what questions to ask and how to ask them to coax you into making a statement that will help them deny your claim on this basis. Be sure you consult a Greensboro Bicycle Accident attorney before you speak to the insurance company!

Handling a Bicycle Accident: Important Steps to Take

When it comes to handling a bicycle accident, there are certain steps you should take to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are some important guidelines to follow if you find yourself involved in a bicycle accident.

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe, it’s essential to get a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical professional can assess your condition and provide necessary treatment.
  2. Contact the Authorities: Call the police and report the accident. It’s crucial to have an official record of the incident, which will help with insurance claims and legal proceedings. Provide the police with accurate details about the accident and any visible damages or injuries.
  3. Gather Evidence: If you can do so safely, collect evidence at the accident scene. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages to your bicycle or other involved vehicles. Get the contact information of any witnesses who can provide statements about what they saw. This evidence will be valuable in building your case.
  4. Preserve Your Bicycle: Preserve your bicycle in its current condition as evidence. Do not repair or dispose of it until you have consulted with a bicycle accident lawyer. Your attorney may need to inspect the bike to determine the extent of the damages and how they relate to the accident.
  5. Document Your Expenses: Keep track of all expenses related to the accident. This includes medical bills, rehabilitation costs, transportation expenses, and any other out-of-pocket expenses you incur. These records will be important when calculating the compensation you are entitled to.
  6. Report the Accident to Insurance Companies: Notify your insurance company about the accident, even if you believe the other party is at fault. Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters and avoid admitting fault or providing a recorded statement without consulting with your bicycle accident lawyer. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, so it’s essential to have legal representation to protect your rights.
  7. Consult a Bicycle Accident Lawyer: It’s crucial to consult an experienced bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. They will provide expert guidance and handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. A skilled attorney will assess the circumstances surrounding your accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court.
  8. Know Your Rights: Understanding your rights as a bicyclist involved in an accident is crucial. A knowledgeable attorney will ensure that you are aware of your legal entitlements and fight for your rights to fair compensation. They will work diligently to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.

skilled bicycle accident lawyer

Remember, time is of the essence in personal injury cases. Statutes of limitations apply, meaning there are deadlines for filing a lawsuit. Contacting a bicycle accident lawyer promptly will ensure that your case is handled effectively and within the required timeframes.

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal representation. A skilled bicycle accident lawyer will guide you through the legal process, advocate for your rights, and work tirelessly to help you receive the compensation you deserve.