Understanding Bicycle Accidents and the Role of a Lawyer

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Understanding Bicycle Accidents and the Role of a Lawyer

Combining leisure, physical exercise and traveling is possible with the help of bicycles. However, as with any means of transport, there are some risks associated with the usage of the Bike. In case of an accident legal representation becomes important as the opponent may quickly use technicalities to exploit you for some cash, a knowledgeable lawyer can prevent it from happening.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Because accidents happen so often it is important to learn about the possible causes in order to avoid them. The primary causes include:

Driver Negligence:

Many bicycle accidents are attributed to car drivers who either do not see the cyclist or underestimate their speed. Driving while distracted, going to fast or under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is dangerous and can be deadly.

Poor Road Conditions:

While riding, bicycles may experience momentary failure in the road surface due to potholes, cracks, debris and poor design of road leading to accident.

Weather Hazards:

Rain, snow and ice increase the problem of lack of adhesion between the tires of the vehicles and the road meaning that an accident can happen easily. While cycling, even in light rain conditions the roads become more hazardous to cycles and their riders.

Cyclist Errors:

At other times, they are due to the cyclists; violating traffic rules that include cycling on wrong side, using hand signals and not yielding right of way.

Vehicle Door Accidents:

This also referred to as dooring takes place when a car door is opened alongside the cyclist’s trajectory forcing the cyclist to hit the car door or steer to another painful position.

Hit-and-Run Incidents:

Unluckily, some drivers run away after the collision and injured bicycle riders do not receive medical assistance they need and adequate compensation.

Common Injuries from Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists are open and exposed to various dangers and this exposes them to several injuries, minor and major. Some of the most prevalent injuries include:

Head and Brain Injuries:

Many cycling deaths and post-accident complications are caused by head injuries. Accidents such as the paralysis of the brain in concussions, major fractures in the skull and any type of head trauma may result to lifelong consequences.

Broken Bones:

Even though they may occur in different seasons, cyclists can break their wrists, arms, legs, or ankles. These injuries can be very sore and often need further treatment such as surgery, a cast or something similar.

Spinal Cord Injuries:

Injury to the spinal cord may cause some loss of movement and feeling, often below the neck, as well as with general coordination. These are severe injuries as they often involve technologies that need to be operated for a lifetime This invention is particularly damaging and normally needs life-long management.

Road Rash:

This kind of injury happens when a cyclist is thrown off the bicycle, and his or her skin rubs on the ground. Road rash can be as minor as Scraps, but often it goes as deep as to the muscles making patients go through skin grafts and occupational therapy.

Internal Injuries:

Bicycle accidents may sometimes result in internal injuries including internal organ injuries, bleeding, and injuries affecting the lungs or spleen. They are often severe and can be fatal and sometimes involve surgery on admission.

Psychological Trauma:

In addition to physical injuries, bike accidents can cause secondary effects such as fear, hopelessness, major depressive disorder or PTSD. These effects can have long-term consequences, personally, and socially on the victim and his or her relationship circle.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

It is important to be aware of which measures need to be taken following a bicycle accident so that you will not regret not acting or having your body damaged unfairly. Here’s what you should do:

Seek Medical Attention:

Your health should be the most important thing in your life. Even if after the accident, one does not feel any pain or discomfort, he/she should go for a check up in the hospital. Some of the effects may sometimes be hidden and quick treatment can help.

Document the Scene:

Photograph the accident scene and jot down the position and location of the bicycles, vehicles, and any other factors. When witnesses are present, ask them for their contact details.

File a Police Report:

It is especially important to report the accident to police so that you have a formal document on the accident. Request another copy of the report for your reference.

Preserve Evidence:

It is also important to keep every paper that is in any way connected with the accident – medical expenses, police reports, letters to/from insurance companies, etc.

Contact a Lawyer:

Contact a bicycle accident attorney who will guide you through the proceedings and ensure you do not violate your rights.

Why You Need a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

A bicycle accident lawyer can be a valuable resource in many ways:

Assessing Your Case:

A lawyer can look at your case and then make a decision on who is at fault and what should be done next.

Handling Insurance Companies:

Most of the time, dealing with insurance provider firms may be very stressful and complicated. A lawyer can complete negotiations and make sure that you will get the proper compensation.

Gathering Evidence:

Your lawyer will ensure that he/she compiles necessary documents for the case such as those of witnesses, doctors among others.

Calculating Damages:

This is because your lawyer will assist in estimating the full loss, which includes; medical bills, payment for time off work, damaged property, as well as the cost of physical and emotional distress.

Filing a Lawsuit:

If the dispute cannot be resolved, your lawyer will be able to sue and defend your case in court.

How to Choose the Right Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Selecting the right attorney is very important if one is to have a successful trial. Consider the following factors when selecting a bicycle accident lawyer in Waterbury:

• Experience: Find a lawyer who specializes in bicycle accident cases so that you are rest assured that you get good representation.
• Reputation: Become familiar with the lawyer’s experience and what others are saying about them by going through ratings and customer feedback.
• Communication: Make sure the lawyer is easy to contact, forthcoming, and completely understandable when it comes to explaining the proceedings.
• Fee Structure: Learn how the lawyer operates their billing structure and if they are involved in contingency fees.

Some cyclists Laws

Cyclists have many laws protecting them as they use the road to prevent cases of fatalities. These laws vary by jurisdiction but may include:

• Helmet Requirements: Most places make it mandatory for cyclists to wear helmets whenever they are operating their bicycles.
• Right-of-Way Rules: Cyclists are expected to operate within the traffic laws and also surrender the road where it is required.
• Safe Passing Distance: Motorists are required to slow down and give enough space while overtaking a bicycle rider that is in most cases three feet or more.
• Bicycle Lane Usage: Bicycles are expected to ride within bike lines where they are provided.

Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims

Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for various expenses, including:

• Medical Expenses: Included in this are the cost of treatment in emergency situations, hospitalization, surgeries, physical rehabilitation, and future medical care to manage chronic illnesses.
• Lost Wages: If you’ve been injured to the point you cannot work, you may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages and future earning capacity.
• Property Damage: You are likely to recover for your personal property which could have included bicycles that were damaged during the accident.
• Pain and Suffering: Pain and suffering mean compensation for the physical and mental injuries incurred in the accident by victims.
• Punitive Damages: Where the driver has been highly negligent, the court may order the defendant to pay punitive damages with the intent of punishing him and discouraging him from repeating the act in the future.

Conclusion

Bicycle accidents can have devastating consequences, but understanding your rights and seeking appropriate legal counsel can help you navigate the aftermath and pursue fair compensation. In the event that you are injured in a bike accident, it is important that you contact an experienced bike accident attorney to discuss your case and protect your rights.