Bicycle accidents have become an increasing concern in the United States. Fatalities and injuries have been climbing steadily over recent years.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shared bicyclist fatalities rose from 623 in 2010 to 966 in 2021, marking a high point not seen since the 1970s. Florida, California, and Texas stand out with disproportionately high numbers of fatalities, with Florida having one of the highest rates of bicyclist deaths per capita, reaching 7.6 deaths per million people. This troubling trend highlights the risks cyclists face on U.S. roads, particularly in states with limited cycling infrastructure and high vehicle traffic density.
Furthermore, cyclists frequently experience inadequate compensation for their injuries. This adds to their burdens as they face medical bills, lost wages, and often long-term disabilities.
Why Hiring A Bicycle Accident Lawyer Is Important
Despite these high rates of injury and fatality, compensation following bicycle accidents can be challenging to secure. A large portion of bicycle accident victims do not receive fair settlements due to various barriers, including aggressive defense tactics by insurance companies and a lack of legal representation.
Studies indicate that insurance companies often deem cyclists at fault or assign partial fault, reducing their ability to receive full compensation. In this complex legal landscape, the services of an experienced bicycle accident lawyer become invaluable.
A bicycle accident lawyer helps accident victims receive adequate compensation. Here’s why investing in the services of a personal injury attorney is essential:
Navigating Liability Complexities
Bicycle accidents frequently involve contested liability, especially in cases where a vehicle hits a cyclist at an intersection or fails to yield.
Lawyers help establish fault. They consult experts and gather eyewitness testimonies, surveillance footage, and accident reconstruction data. This evidence helps counter insurance claims that may try to reduce their financial responsibility.
Dealing With The Insurance Company
Insurance adjusters settle claims quickly and for minimal payouts. A skilled lawyer negotiates with insurers on behalf of the victim. They will ensure all damages, including medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering, are accounted for.
Moreover, lawyers prepare for court if settlement negotiations fail, which increases the chances of a fair outcome.
Ensuring Proper Valuation Of Claims
Bicycle accident victims face various expenses, from emergency treatment and rehabilitation to possible modifications in lifestyle due to long-term injuries. Lawyers understand the long-term costs associated with serious injuries. Thus, they ensure these are included in the bicycle accident case or claim.
Legal Knowledge And Advocacy
Lawyers specializing in bicycle accidents are well-versed in traffic laws and cyclist rights. They are adept at identifying negligence by motorists or infrastructure issues that may have contributed to the accident. Their advocacy is essential in highlighting these factors, especially in states like Florida, where traffic laws around cycling remain complex and less favorable to cyclists.
Maximizing Compensation
In cases involving severe injuries, a good lawyer can seek compensation that covers not only immediate medical expenses but also long-term care, physical therapy, loss of future income, and emotional trauma the bicycle accident caused. Many settlements or judgments account for both current and projected expenses, ensuring victims of bike accidents are financially protected in the long run.
Parting Thoughts
With high rates of injury and fatalities affecting bicyclists each year, hiring a knowledgeable and experienced bicycle accident lawyer can significantly improve a victim’s chances of securing adequate compensation and recovering with financial peace of mind.
If you or a loved one becomes a victim of a bike accident, make sure to contact a reputable firm like Sweet Lawyers. From handling insurance negotiations to advocating for fair liability assessment, these legal professionals provide essential support in helping you rebuild your life.
FAQ’s:
How Much Will It Cost To Hire A Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
Most bicycle accident lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis. They only get paid if they win the case or settle it successfully. This fee can be from 25% to 40% of the awarded settlement.
What Should I Look For In A Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
Look for a lawyer with experience in bicycle accident cases specifically, as they’ll be more familiar with traffic laws related to cycling, common motor vehicle accident scenarios, and effective negotiation techniques. Key factors also include positive client testimonials and a successful track record in getting fair compensation.
Can I Still Claim Compensation If I Was Partially At Fault?
In many states, partial fault does not eliminate your right to compensation, though it may reduce the amount you can recover. For example, in comparative negligence states like California, your compensation might be reduced based on your fault percentage. Your Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer will work to minimize your fault percentage and maximize your claim amount.
What If The Driver Who Hit Me Didn’t Have Insurance?
If the at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured, your lawyer can help you seek compensation through other means, such as your own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy, if applicable. Bike accident attorneys can also pursue compensation from other liable parties, like a municipality if road conditions played a role.
How Long Will It Take To Resolve A Bicycle Accident Claim?
The timeframe for resolving a claim varies widely, depending on the case’s complexity and whether it goes to court. While some cases settle within months, others, especially those involving severe injuries or disputed liability, may take over a year to conclude.
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