What to Do After a Bicycle Accident – How a Bicycle Accident Attorney Can Defend You
Bicycling is a practical and healthy way to travel, but accidents can happen without warning. Cyclists share the road with larger, heavier vehicles, which puts them at a higher risk of serious injury. Unlike drivers, they have no protective barrier, which makes even minor collisions dangerous.
When a bicycle accident occurs, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional stress can quickly become overwhelming. If another party’s negligence caused the accident, the injured cyclist has the right to seek compensation. Sarah Flack Law helps injured cyclists in Atlanta, GA navigate the legal process and recover the financial support they need.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle accident, taking the right steps can help protect both physical health and legal rights. The actions taken immediately after the crash can affect a future insurance claim or lawsuit.
If possible, move to a safe location, but do not leave the scene. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, it is important to be checked by a doctor. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately noticeable.
Gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. A police report can also serve as valuable evidence, so it is best to provide officers with accurate information about what happened.
It is important not to discuss fault at the scene. Anything said to the driver, witnesses, or an insurance adjuster could be used to reduce or deny a claim. Instead, seek legal advice from an experienced bicycle accident attorney who can handle communication with insurance companies and other involved parties.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Many bicycle accidents occur due to driver negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Failure to yield: Many drivers do not check for cyclists when turning or merging. This can lead to dangerous collisions at intersections and driveways.
- Distracted driving: Using a phone, adjusting the radio, or eating while driving can cause a motorist to overlook a cyclist.
- Running red lights or stop signs: Cyclists are especially vulnerable when crossing intersections, where some drivers fail to stop or yield.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, missing road signs, and lack of bike lanes make riding more dangerous. Local governments may be responsible for maintaining safe roads.
- Dooring accidents: A driver or passenger may open a car door without checking for cyclists, causing the rider to crash into the door.
- Drunk or reckless driving: Speeding, impaired driving, or aggressive maneuvers put cyclists in immediate danger.
Identifying the cause of the accident is key to proving liability and building a strong legal case.
How Insurance Companies Try to Limit Compensation
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, even when a cyclist is seriously injured. They may argue that the rider was partially at fault or use other tactics to reduce compensation.
One common strategy is blaming the cyclist. Insurance adjusters may claim that the rider was not following traffic laws, even if the driver was clearly at fault. They may also delay claims, hoping the victim will settle for a lower amount due to financial strain.
Some companies offer quick settlements before the full extent of injuries is known. While this may seem like an easy way to resolve the claim, it often results in less compensation than needed for medical treatment and recovery.
Sarah Flack Law fights back against these tactics. With experience handling personal injury cases, Sarah Flack knows how to counter insurance company strategies and negotiate fair settlements. If a reasonable agreement cannot be reached, the case can be taken to court to pursue full compensation.
What Compensation Can a Bicycle Accident Victim Receive?
A bicycle accident can result in significant financial and emotional burdens. Victims may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses: This includes emergency care, hospital visits, physical therapy, and any long-term treatment needed for recovery.
- Lost wages: If injuries prevent the victim from working, they may be compensated for both past and future lost income.
- Property damage: Repairing or replacing a damaged bicycle can be costly. Compensation may cover these expenses.
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can have lasting effects. Victims may receive compensation for these non-economic damages.
Every case is different, and the value of a claim depends on the severity of injuries, the impact on daily life, and the level of negligence involved. A skilled bicycle accident attorney can assess the case and determine the compensation that should be pursued.
What Makes Sarah Flack Law the Best Choice in Atlanta
Selecting the right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case. Sarah Flack Law provides dedicated legal representation with a client-first approach.
Sarah Flack is an experienced attorney with a strong background in personal injury law. As a former prosecutor, she understands legal strategies that strengthen a case. She has successfully handled complex accident claims and fought for favorable results for her clients.
At Sarah Flack Law, clients receive direct communication with an attorney, not just a case manager. Personalized representation means each case gets the attention it deserves. The firm is committed to protecting clients’ rights and fighting for the compensation they need.
Contact Sarah Flack Law for Legal Support
Taking legal action as soon as possible is important for building a strong case. Evidence can be lost, witnesses may forget details, and insurance companies may take advantage of delays. Georgia also has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, which means waiting too long could result in losing the right to compensation.
Sarah Flack Law offers free 15-minute phone consultations to accident victims. f you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, contact Sarah Flack Law today to discuss your legal options.
