If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, you may have suffered serious injuries. Be sure to seek medical care as soon as possible. Then, reach out to an experienced attorney to discuss filing a bicycle accident claim.At Lerner Law Injury & Accident Firm, we fight for every bicycle accident victim with a personal injury claim. We have seen firsthand how serious bike accidents can be. Learn more about our services below, and give us a call to schedule a free case review.
Working with an experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney will significantly improve your chance of a positive outcome. They offer invaluable support in several ways:
Bicycle accidents in Los Angeles have been rising. This highlights the importance of taking safety measures and understanding your rights as a bicycle rider. There are countless bike accidents in LA annually; in 2022 alone, 26 people died. These numbers underscore the critical role of a competent attorney in helping victims seek justice and compensation.
As a cyclist on the bustling streets of Los Angeles, it's essential to understand the myriad risks that can lead to accidents. Awareness is a crucial first step in mitigating potential harm. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include:
By understanding and staying alert to these common accident causes, cyclists can adopt preventative measures to enhance their safety. However, despite the most diligent precautions, accidents can still happen due to the actions of others. In such cases, remember that legal remedies are available to help you recover and seek justice for your ordeal.
Bicycling, while being a great form of transportation and exercise, carries certain risks, especially in busy city environments like Los Angeles. In the unfortunate event of a bicycle accident, cyclists may suffer a variety of severe injuries. Common bicycle accident injuries include:
Beyond physical injuries, a bicycle accident can also lead to substantial financial and emotional burdens. Medical bills can pile up quickly, and the income lost from time off work can add to the financial strain. The emotional trauma associated with such an incident can also have long-lasting effects on mental health.
Additionally, the bicycle and any personal belongings involved may be damaged, requiring repair or replacement. It's important to remember that victims have rights and can seek compensation to help offset these costs and hardships. An experienced bicycle accident attorney can provide invaluable assistance. This enables you to navigate the legal process.
Preserving evidence after a bicycle accident is vital to building a strong case. This includes photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bicycle. Also, keep medical records and receipts related to the accident, and jot down any memories of the event while they're still fresh. Memories can fade over time, so be sure to have hard evidence and photographs you can use to back up your claim.
There are several steps you should take after a bike accident, and a few crucial ones include:
Your safety is the top priority after an accident. If you are capable, try to move out of traffic to a safer location to avoid further harm. Immediately dial 911 to report the accident and summon medical assistance if necessary. Even if you feel okay, shock and adrenaline can mask injury symptoms, and a record of the accident is important for future claims. Remember to stay at the scene until help arrives to ensure all pertinent details are correctly recorded.
Gathering evidence is a crucial step that could significantly impact your potential compensation. If possible, take clear photos of the accident scene, the vehicle involved, any damage to your bicycle, and your visible injuries. This visual evidence can powerfully illustrate the severity of the collision. Moreover, get the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident unfold. Their statements could corroborate your account and strengthen your case. Lastly, ensure that a police report is filed. This official document often serves as a critical piece of evidence when proving fault.
Always seek medical attention after an accident, even if your injuries seem minor initially. Some injuries might not show immediate symptoms. But they could have severe consequences if left untreated. This includes concussions and internal bleeding.
A prompt medical examination can uncover such issues and provide necessary treatment, reducing the likelihood of complications. Moreover, medical records are valuable evidence of your injuries and the treatments you received. They link your injuries directly to the accident. Make sure to document all treatments, medications, prescriptions, and follow-ups. This comprehensive medical record can justify your claim for medical expenses.
Reporting the accident promptly to the authorities is crucial in the post-accident process. This ensures that the incident is officially recorded. It also initiates your potential claim process with the insurer. However, be cautious while making statements, especially to the other party's insurance company.
It's wise to limit your conversation to basic facts about the accident and avoid commenting on fault or the extent of your injuries. Insurance companies may use your statements against you to minimize their payout. Therefore, consult with an experienced bicycle accident attorney before making detailed statements. It would help if you talk to your attorney before agreeing to any settlements. Your attorney can guide you on what to say and help prevent you from unknowingly undermining your claim.
Insurance companies often aim to minimize their payout. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf, preventing you from accepting less than you deserve.
Establishing liability is central to your case. A skilled attorney can help demonstrate that the other party breached their duty of care and caused your injuries.
Under California law, you can still recover damages even if you're partly at fault for an accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
In California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, makes timely legal action crucial. However, under certain circumstances, such as a claim against a government or government entity, you may have as little as six months to file a claim.
Victims can seek compensation for current and future medical expenses related to the accident. This includes surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication.
If your injuries cause you to miss work or limit your ability to earn in the future, you can claim these losses.
Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident is also available.
You're entitled to compensation for your damaged bicycle and other personal property.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a bicycle accident, don't hesitate to reach out for a free consultation. Our experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney at Lerner Law Injury & Accident Firm will evaluate your case. We will pursue your rights and guide you through the steps toward getting the compensation you deserve. Contact us today.
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