Hurt On A Bicycle? How To Deal With Your Damages

Blog

The pandemic situation produced a number of surprising changes in the way people behave. One unexpected outcome is that more and more people are taking to the road on two wheels. Unfortunately, drivers have problems paying attention to those riding bicycles, and that means some have found themselves in the hospital as a result of an accident. To find out how to deal with your personal injury damages after an accident, read on.

Understanding Fault And Liability

It's rare for a bike vs. vehicle accident to come down on the side of the vehicle. Those driving vehicles must be watchful of cyclists and yield to them along the roadway. When an accident occurs, chances are, the fault lies with the vehicle driver. That also means that the driver's insurer will be eager to settle the case by offering a settlement since their client is liable for the cyclist's injuries and other forms of damage. Here is what most cyclists are owed by the driver after an accident with injuries:

• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages

What To Do After An Accident

Taking the below steps can help ensure you get paid what you deserve after your bicycle accident:

1. Gather evidence. If you are able or if you have a friend or loved one that can come and help, take photographs of the vehicle, your bike, and your injuries. If anyone witnessed the accident, gather their contact information. Also, be sure to get your hands on the accident report prepared by law enforcement. Once you contact a personal injury attorney, they will handle the remainder of the evidence gathering by speaking to eye-witnesses and accessing your medical records.
2. Seek medical help right away. Even if you think you only have bumps and bruises, see a doctor to make sure you don't have hidden internal injuries or a head injury, both of which might not show up at first. Head injuries with bike accident victims are distressingly common and can produce long-lasting physical and mental problems for victims. You cannot seek compensation and expect to be paid what you deserve if you don't also seek medical attention and obey all doctor's orders.
3. Talk to a lawyer before you do anything else. With drivers being liable for a bicyclist's injuries nearly 100% of the time, the driver's insurer may be extra aggressive about making contact with victims and offering them a settlement. Victims are not advised to communicate with the insurer about damages and other issues. Instead, let your lawyer handle all contact from the other side.

Speak to a personal injury lawyer to find out more. 

Share  

15 June 2021