Step 3: Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer and File a Claim
Contact a bicycle accident lawyer to file a claim against the other driver. A bicycle accident lawyer can also help you calculate the value of your claim. This includes financial compensation for:
- Hospital bills
- Lost wages
- Injuries sustained
- Property damage
- Punitive damages (if applicable)
When filing a claim, you need to send a demand letter to the driver’s insurance company. It should outline your injuries, damages, and liability. They will then respond with either an acceptance, a rejection, or a counteroffer. A personal injury lawyer can aid you in evaluating the offer.
You can file a lawsuit if you cannot reach a settlement with the insurance company. Georgia law gives you two years from the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. An attorney from the Dressie Law Firm can help you prepare and file the necessary paperwork and evidence.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
There are various bicycle accident injuries ranging from minor to severe injuries. Bicycle riders suffer the following injuries:
- Head injuries: Head injuries include concussions, skull fractures, contusions, cranial hemorrhages, and traumatic brain injuries.
- Neck and back injuries: They can include herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, and nerve damage.
- Fractures: They are more likely to occur in the legs, feet, arms, hands, ribs, collarbone, pelvis, and face.
- Lacerations: They are cuts or tears in the skin that can occur during a bicycle accident. Lacerations can lead to bleeding, scarring, and disfigurement.
- Bruises: Bicycle riders can get bruises due to the impact of hitting a vehicle or pavement during an accident. Bruises can also signify more severe injuries like contusions, deep tissue bruising, and broken bones.
- Internal organ damage: Bicycle accident victims may suffer from internal bleeding or organ damage due to the force of impact during an accident. These injuries can have long-term effects on a person’s health if not treated immediately.
Avoiding Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can cause serious injuries and even death. Here are some tips for avoiding bicycle accidents:
- Always wear a helmet: Wearing a helmet can protect you from head injuries in an accident.
- Use hand signals: Signaling your intentions to drivers can prevent collisions.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing: Make yourself visible to drivers, especially at night.
- Follow traffic rules: Bicyclists are subject to the same traffic laws as cars and should follow them accordingly. This includes obeying traffic signals, riding in the same direction as traffic, and using bike lanes when available.
- Stay alert: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of potential hazards. Avoid distractions such as headphones or cell phones while riding.
- Use lights and reflectors: Ensure that your bike has working lights and reflectors so that you are visible to drivers at night.
Why Hire an Atlanta Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
A lot goes into getting compensation for a bicycle accident injury. In most cases, the negligent party or their insurance company will do everything possible to avoid paying for your damages. This is where an experienced Atlanta bicycle accident attorney can significantly help.
A bicycle accident lawyer specializes in handling personal injury cases related to cycling accidents and can provide you with the necessary legal representation to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Not only can an Atlanta Bicycle Accident Lawyer help you navigate the complex legal process and deal with insurance companies, but they also have a deep understanding of bicycle laws in Georgia. This can be especially valuable when proving fault and holding the responsible party accountable for their actions. With the help of a skilled lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while they handle all the legal aspects of your case.