Riding a bike is not just a mode of transportation; it’s a way of life for many people. However, sharing the road with cars can sometimes lead to accidents, and when a car clips a cyclist, the consequences can be severe. If you’ve been involved in a bike accident where a car clipped you, it’s essential to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation.
Understanding Liability In Bike Accidents
When a car clips a cyclist, determining liability is crucial in seeking compensation for injuries and damages. In many cases, the driver of the car may be held responsible for the accident if they were negligent or reckless in their actions. Common causes of car-bike accidents include distracted driving, failure to yield, speeding, and violating traffic laws. However, liability may also be shared if the cyclist was partially at fault for the accident, such as by failing to obey traffic signals or riding in a dangerous manner.
Documenting Injuries And Damages
After a bike accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention for any injuries, no matter how minor they may seem. Even if you don’t immediately feel pain, some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be apparent right away. Keep detailed records of your medical treatment, including doctor’s visits, diagnostic tests, medications, and rehabilitation therapies. Additionally, document any damage to your bike and other personal property, as well as any other expenses incurred as a result of the accident.
Calculating Compensation For Damages
A lawyer, like a bicycle accident lawyer, knows that compensation for injuries and damages in a bike accident case may include:
- Medical expenses: This includes past, present, and future medical bills related to your injuries, such as emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and prescription medications.
- Lost income: If your injuries prevent you from working or require time off for recovery, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Bike accidents can cause significant physical and emotional pain, for which you may be awarded compensation to help ease your suffering.
- Property damage: You may be entitled to compensation for the repair or replacement of your bike and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Other damages: Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may also be entitled to compensation for transportation expenses, home modifications, and other related costs.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Dealing with the aftermath of a bike accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from your injuries and navigate the legal process at the same time. Attorneys can help you understand your rights, gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and pursue legal action if necessary to secure the compensation you deserve.
Find Help For Your Claim
Being clipped by a car while riding your bike can have serious consequences, including injuries, medical expenses, and property damage. If you’ve been involved in a bike accident, it’s essential to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation. Our friends at the Law Firm of Edward Blinder, PLLC know that a lawyer will help you navigate the complexities of a bike accident claim and fight for the fair compensation you deserve. Speak with a lawyer you can trust for help with your claim.