A bike accident can cause serious physical and emotional trauma. If you were injured while riding your bike, a Duncan personal injury lawyer can help you pursue damages.
Dealing with the insurance company after a bike accident can be overwhelming. A Duncan bicycle accident lawyer from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC can negotiate on your behalf and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why Do I Need a Duncan Bicycle Accident Attorney?
Bicycle accident cases can be difficult to win. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Duncan can:
- Investigate the accident: A lawyer can gather evidence like witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reports to build a strong case.
- Assess your damages: They can determine the full extent of your financial losses, including medical bills, lost income, and future care costs.
- Deal with insurance companies: An attorney can handle communications with insurance adjusters and fight for a fair settlement.
- Represent you in court: If your case goes to trial, a lawyer will argue your case and push for a fair outcome.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Duncan
Understanding how bicycle accidents happen can help you and your lawyer prove fault. Common causes include:
- Driver negligence: Failing to yield, speeding, or distracted driving often leads to collisions with cyclists.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, or uneven pavement can cause a cyclist to lose control.
- Bike defects: Faulty brakes, tires, or other equipment failures can result in accidents.
- Cyclist error: Sudden lane changes, running stop signs, or riding without proper safety gear can contribute to a collision (though it does not necessarily eliminate the driver’s responsibility).
Types of Injuries from Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts to serious, long-term damage. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Cuts and bruises
- Sprains and strains
- Internal injuries
If you sustained any of these in a bike accident, a bicycle accident attorney in Duncan can help you recover compensation.
Types of Compensation You Can Recover
Types of compensation you can pursue after a bike accident include:
- Medical expenses: You can recover compensation for hospital stays, surgery, medication, and ongoing therapy.
- Lost wages: You can be compensated for income you lost while recovering from the accident.
- Pain and suffering: Your compensation can cover physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage: You can be reimbursed for the repair or replacement of your bicycle and any other personal items damaged in the accident.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can strengthen your case. Here’s what you should do:
- Call 911: Notify the police and file a report. This will provide an unbiased account of the incident.
- Document the scene: Take photos of your injuries, the bicycle, the vehicles involved, and the surrounding area.
- Get witness information: Collect the names and contact information of anyone who saw the accident.
- Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries don’t seem serious, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
- Contact a lawyer: Reach out to our bicycle accident lawyers to discuss your options.
How Much Compensation Can You Get for a Cycling Accident?
Bicycle accident settlements in Duncan can range from a few thousand dollars for minor injuries to $100,000 or more for serious, long-term injuries. Compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. An attorney can review your case and provide a more precise estimate.
How Hard Is It to Win a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit?
Your odds of winning a lawsuit depend on your ability to prove who caused the accident and demonstrate the extent of your injuries. Cases are more likely to succeed if:
- There is clear evidence.
- Witnesses support your claim.
- Medical records show injuries.
- Liability is straightforward.
A lawyer can help gather evidence and present your case effectively.
Who Is At Fault for a Bicycle Accident?
Fault in a bicycle accident can fall on several parties, depending on the circumstances. Those who may be held liable include:
- The cyclist: The cyclist may be at fault if they ride against traffic, ignore signals, make sudden lane changes, or fail to use proper safety equipment.
- Drivers: Drivers can be responsible if they speed, drive distracted, fail to yield, or violate traffic laws.
- Government entities: Local governments may be liable if poorly maintained roads, missing signs, or hazardous conditions contribute to an accident.
- Manufacturers: Companies that produce defective bike parts or safety equipment may be held responsible if the defect causes a crash.
A lawyer can help identify all liable parties and work to hold them accountable for your losses.
Talk to a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Duncan
Bicycle accidents can lead to a variety of financial challenges. A dedicated Duncan bicycle accident attorney from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC can take on your case, build a strong claim, and fight for a fair settlement so you can focus on healing from the accident.
Book a free case review to discuss your legal options today.