PERSONAL INJURY CAUSED BY BICYCLE ACCIDENTS

One of the most vulnerable travelers on the road is the bicyclist. Because the bicyclist is frequently moving in the midst of motor vehicles, most bicycle accidents are the result of the cyclist being hit by a car or truck. Even the most cautious and careful bicyclist may become the victim of a serious accident. There are several causes of bicyclist injuries and fatalities.

The following are some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents:

• Automotive hit and run accidents
  
  
• Bicyclist being crowded off the road
  
  
• Failure of the motor vehicle to come to a complete stop at an intersection
  
  
• Hitting potholes and roadway debris
  
  
• Car doors being suddenly opened in the path of bicyclist
  
  
• Poor street lighting
  
  
• Unsafe guard rails on curves
  
  
• Drunk, negligent or distracted drivers

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident where you were not at fault, you may be overwhelmed by the challenges ahead. Thankfully, you do not have to face them alone. The Personal Injury Attorneys at Nadrich & Cohen specialize in helping accident victims obtain the best recovery.

These few basic steps will help you deal with the after-effects of an accident:

• Get medical attention
  
  
• Take pictures of your injuries
  
  
• Take pictures of the accident scene and property damage, if possible
  
  
• Contact a personal injury attorney
  
  
• Let your attorney handle all communication with the insurance companies.

If claims will be filed against another party for reasons of fault or negligence, it is important for you to follow these guidelines. You will want to refrain from saying or doing anything that can compromise your claim.

MEDICAL ATTENTION

First, you must seek medical treatment for your injuries. Remember to always follow the instructions from your doctor. Do not make the assumption that, in spite of what the doctor says, you feel capable of getting back to work or engaging in any strenuous activity. If the doctor tells you to stay away from specific activities, do as he or she says.

DOCUMENT YOUR INJURIES

If you can, photograph your injuries with a camera, cell phone or tablet. Also, keep track of all records of your treatment such as: doctor’s instructions, prescriptions, reports from emergency personnel, etc. Any of these documents may hold a piece of crucial evidence for your case. Inform your lawyer of all treatment updates throughout your recovery.

DOCUMENT THE ACCIDENT

If possible, photograph the scene of the accident. Try to take photos of the dangerous condition that caused the accident, roadway debris and/or the general, physical condition of the accident site.

SEEKING LEGAL HELP

When an accident results in personal injury, find a lawyer. You will need the help of a legal advisor who can work with you to protect your health and recovery. Your attorney will explain all of your options and secure the best recovery for you. A lawyer is crucial to navigating the obstacles that stand in the way of your receiving compensation for your injuries.

LET THE ATTORNEY HANDLE EVERYTHING

It is very important for you to remember when making a bicycle accident claim, that will put you in the anything you say can hurt your claim. Because of this, you should refrain from talking about the accident on any social media site. As long as the case is active, be careful about what you say in public and online.

If you are contacted by the attorney for the other party of the accident, tell them to speak to your lawyer. If the other party’s insurance company makes you an offer, tell them to speak to your lawyer and do not say anything further. For example, refrain from saying something that might be taken as an agreement to the insurance company’s terms.

Being injured in a bicycle accident is very stressful. Finding a good personal injury lawyer provides peace of mind. At Nadrich & Cohen, we work in a quick and thorough manner to provide the best possible outcomes for our clients. Contact us immediately at (800) 718-4658 for a free consultation or complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page. A member of our injury team will contact you within 24 hours.

We have offices throughout California to serve you.