Help from a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Every state in the country has a different state law pertaining to personal injury which encompasses bicycle accident laws.  Generally, a bicyclist has a duty to follow the applicable rules and regulations pertaining to bicycling; deviation from this law will frequently prevent or minimize liability of another party in the event of an injury.  Moreover, a bicyclist generally assumes the inherent risks of bicycling, but does not assume any unforeseen risks.  Thus, a bicyclist would assume the risk of a slight bump in a bike path but would not assume the risk of a suspended wire running across the bike path.

Types of Injuries

While not exhaustive, some of bicycle accident injuries include:

• broken bones and/or fractures
• brain damage
• contusions and lacerations
• paralysis
• organ damage

Determining Liability

When assessing liability for a bicycle accident injury, there are various factors considered.  The type of injury, current and projected medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and diminished quality of life are examined.  Moreover, if the injuries were due to gross negligence, such as a motorist’s driving while intoxicated, punitive damages may be sought.  Punitive damages are damages which seek to punish the wrongdoer for his or actions.

Suing for Injuries

When filing a lawsuit based upon a bicycle accident, there are various issues an attorney will consider prior to the commencement of the law suit.  Initially, the attorney will examine where the accident occurred.  Moreover, there is a review of the manner in which the injury occurred.  Furthermore, the attorney may subpoena other relevant witnesses or records of the parties involved. This research assists in the proper preparation for a lawsuit based upon injuries sustained in a bicycle accident.

How a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

If one has been injured in a bicycle accident, one usually has to deal with a range of issues, including but not limited to lost wages, medical bills, insurance and settlement offers.  All of these matters can be confusing and can detract from the injured party’s rest and recovery.  Retaining an attorney can eliminate this stress and allow for one to devote their energy to getting better.  In addition, an experienced bicycle accident lawyer can properly review a bicycle accident case, using both their knowledge and resources in order to protect one’s rights while also obtaining the most beneficial financial compensation for the injured party.

Finally, a bicycle accident lawyer can assist in reviewing a bicycle accident settlement and determine whether any settlement offer is fair compensation for one’s injuries; if the offer is not fair, the bicycle accident lawyer can negotiate a fair settlement to provide the most advantageous one to the injured party.