Right to Compensation for Cycling Accident Victims:
As a cyclist, you are undoubtedly aware that you face more hazards than anyone using the roadways. You have far less physical protection than occupants of a vehicle and much less ability to increase speed to avoid a collision, such as a motorcyclist. In addition, most bicyclists have no insurance other than their health coverage to provide financial assistance if they are involved in an accident. So, seeking compensation is even more critical to bike riders.
Why do I need a Cycling Accident Attorney?
Being a comparative negligence state, California drivers can be found liable for only a portion of the expenses or losses of a cycling accident victim if they are assigned only partial responsibility for causing the incident. That leaves the cyclist paying out of pocket for any expenses deemed their responsibility or share of the negligence that caused the incident. Even if you feel you did everything right and were not negligent in your actions, unless you can apply the correct legal terminology, laws, and examples, you will lose at least some of the compensation you need to cover your bills. However, the expert Cycling Accident Attorneys at LA Injury Attorneys will work diligently and apply their knowledge of the law to ensure you are fully compensated for your losses.
Insurance Companies/Claims Adjustors
As a cyclist, you are likely to be dealing with a motorist’s insurance company and claims adjustor to secure the compensation that is owed to you. However, the critical factors are that it is not your insurance company, and they are not working to protect you or your best interest. Their first goal is to make money for the insurance company by paying you as little as possible. Their second job is to protect their insured, reduce their liability, and claim as much as possible.
The only time you will have an expert working to protect you and your financial interest is when you hire a Cycling Accident Attorney from LA Injury Attorneys to represent you. Your Cycling Accident Attorney is legally obligated to work to protect your interests and rights. And no one will work harder and more diligently than our team to protect the rights and financial future of our clients.
What you need to know about Cycling Accidents
Any cyclist knows that the main traffic risks come from three sources: reckless, belligerent or blindsided motorists; swinging car doors; and jaywalking pedestrians. Cyclists must somehow be alert to these dangers while simultaneously keeping a close eye on the pavement for potholes, metal plates and other ground-level hazards. However, many other hazards might contribute to an injury accident and open the door for others to share in the negligence that caused your accident. Issues such as low tree branches blocking the Los Angeles bike lane you were using or landscape features that obscured a Pasadena road sign or traffic signal could mean that a property owner or even the city could share in the liability for your losses. These are only a few of the factors that could change the outcome of your case in your favor, thanks to the expertise and knowledge of your Cycling Accident Attorney from LA Injury Attorneys. Please do not hesitate to contact our staff to discuss your case.
Statute of Limitation to file a Cycling Accident Claim
The time-limit to file a Personal Injury Claim for the injuries occurred in an auto accident is 2 years, for property damages it is 3 years from the date of accident. If the defendant is a government entity, the time limit is 6 months from the date of accident. If the government entity denies the claim, you have another 6 months from the date of denial.
What you need to know about Cycling Accidents
Any cyclist knows that the main traffic risks come from three sources: reckless, belligerent or blindsided motorists; swinging car doors; and jaywalking pedestrians. Cyclists must somehow be alert to these dangers while simultaneously keeping a close eye on the pavement for potholes, metal plates and other ground-level hazards.
How to Act Before Calling a Cycling Accidents Attorney
- Dial 911: call the police or an ambulance immediately. If you are unable to do so, ask someone to help.
- Always wait for the police to arrive and file an official accident report. A police report provides documentation detailing the incident, including the identity of witnesses.
- Get the business card of the officer.
- Leave your bike in the same state it was after the accident, if possible. It is best if the police see the accident scene undisturbed.
- Obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
- Immediately seek medical attention, either at the scene, the emergency room, hospital, or doctor’s office. When in doubt, go to the ER! Give all complaints to the doctor. Medical records are proof that you were injured and document the extent of your injuries.
- Take photos of injuries and keep a diary of how you feel after the accident.
- Never negotiate with the driver of the vehicle, regardless of who may be at fault. Get the driver’s name and his or her insurance information, along with the names of any passengers.
- Give no written or recorded statements to anyone.
If another party was responsible for your injuries, you may be entitled to substantial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages (past and future) and pain and suffering.
