What Every Cyclist Should Know About Bicycle Accident Claims

When Can You File a Bicycle Accident Claim?

As mentioned, if you have been hurt in a bicycle accident and someone else was at fault, you may have the right to file a claim. These claims are often based on negligence. This means the other person failed to act responsibly, and their action caused your injuries.

For example, if a driver ran a red light and hit you, or if a city did not fix a dangerous pothole or guardrail that caused you to crash. In such cases, you may be able to hold them responsible. Claims can be made against the following parties, depending on what caused the accident:

• Drivers
• Businesses
• Government entities
• Bike manufacturers

The statute of limitations for filing a bicycle accident claim varies from one state to another. However, the timeline ranges from one to three years, depending on where you reside and the circumstances of the accident.

What a Bicycle Accident Claim Can Cover

A bicycle accident claim is meant to help the cyclist get back on their feet by covering the costs tied to their injury. For example:

• Medical bills for doctor visits, surgeries, and therapies
• Lost wages if the accident forced you to miss work
• Pain and suffering from the emotional and physical impact of the accident
• Repair or replacement costs

In some cases, if the other party acted extremely recklessly, you might be able to receive punitive damages, which are compensation awarded to the victim to punish the offender.

How Can You Strengthen Your Bicycle Accident Claim?

There are some steps you can take to make your claim stronger. First, get medical attention as soon as possible, even if the injuries seem minor. This will provide a record of your injuries.

Next, try to gather enough evidence. You can take photos of the scene, get a copy of the police report, keep your medical records, and take witness information. Also, save receipts and records of anything you have spent out of pocket because of the accident. All of this information helps prove your case and show the extent of your damages.

How to Deal With Insurance Companies

After an accident, you may get a call from the other party’s insurance company. The first offer is typically an attempt to lowball you. Therefore, don’t give a recorded statement or accept any amount without consulting an attorney. If you have any form of insurance, your policy can be used to cover your injuries. This is mostly the case when the driver at fault did not have enough insurance or fled the scene.

Why Is Legal Help Important When Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim?

Handling a claim on your own while trying to recover from your injuries can be difficult. Insurance companies have tactics to try and shift blame or minimize your injuries. An experienced lawyer can deal with the insurance company, make sure your claim is properly filed without missing the timeline, and fight for the full amount you deserve.

Conclusion

A bicycle accident can turn your life upside down. However, understanding the claims process can help you take control. Gather evidence, get medical attention, and talk to a lawyer so that they can handle the legal intricacies and you can focus on recovering.

Erwin writes on Health and Wellness Matters