Have you or a loved one been injured in a bicycle accident? If so, the aftermath can be overwhelming and confusing. With so many questions swirling around your head, it’s easy to feel lost and unsure of what steps to take next. As Bellingham bicycle accident attorneys with decades of experience, we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions about bike accident cases to help guide you through this challenging time. From understanding your legal rights to navigating the claims process, our goal is to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions and get back on track as quickly as possible. Let us be your go-to resource for answers and support!
If you are involved in a bike accident, take pictures of your injuries and the damage to your bike if you are able. Otherwise, seek medical attention right away. Keep copies of medical records, bills and expenses related to your injuries and contact an experienced bike accident lawyer who can help you understand the value of your accident claim.
Not wearing a helmet does not prevent an injured bike rider from recovering damages, but it can reduce the amount of the settlement if an expert witness can show that your failure to wear a helmet made your injuries worse.
It is wise to contact a local accident lawyer if you are in a bike accident. He or she can assess the cause of the accident (fault), the severity of your injuries and the amount that your claim is worth. If the insurance company has offered a settlement, it is a good idea to have it reviewed by a personal injury attorney; insurance companies will offer the lowest settlement possible. If your attorney negotiates a settlement on your behalf, you pay only a portion of the settlement and consultations are free.
Like all accident cases, there is no set worth. When determining the value of a claim, a bike accident lawyer will consider many factors including the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical bills and other damages such as lost wages. Bike accident cases vary in value from a few thousand dollars to more than a million dollars.
Personal injury claims in Washington State must generally be filed within 3 years from the date of the accident, but there are exceptions such as when the victim is a minor child. Talk to a bike accident attorney to discuss the statute of limitations that applies to your case.
If you have bike insurance and you are hit by an unidentified driver, you may be able to file a claim to recover damages under your own policy.
In Washington State, fault can be shared in a personal injury case. Damages are awarded based on contributory fault law, which says that you may only be awarded damages proportionate to the percentage of fault contributed by the defendant and nothing for the amount of fault that you contributed. For example, if you were 10% at fault and your damages were $100,000, you would receive only $90,000.
We look forward to answering all of your questions and speaking with you about your legal needs. When you call our office or send us a message through our consultation request form we will provide a FREE initial consultation and case evaluation. Our attorneys offer home and hospital visits with evening and weekend appointments available.