Understanding The Responsibilities Of A Bicycle Accident Lawyer

The rate of bicycle accidents is higher than bike accident lawsuits. In most cases, bicycle accidents cause self-inflicted injuries from a fall, where the cyclist is on the wrong side. But, there are instances where other parties like motorists may be at fault. If you’re faced with such a case, you have the right to pursue a bicycle accident lawsuit to seek compensation for damages and injuries sustained.

The right expert to help you get the compensation you desire is a bicycle accident lawyer. Such an attorney is responsible for taking care of your litigation process to ensure that you focus on recovering from the damage occasioned by the bike accident. Besides litigation, there are different roles played by bicycle accident attorneys. Here are a few to keep in mind.

1. The Lawyer Finds Out More Information About Your Case

When you present your case to a bicycle accident attorney, the first thing they’ll do is to evaluate your case. The lawyer will begin by asking questions about how the accident happened and how it has impacted you. Bicycle lawyers in Los Angeles listen closely for specific information, which helps build your case. Some of the details a lawyer may be interested in include:

• The insurance policies applicable to your case
• How has the bicycle accident affected your day to day life
• What are the injuries you have sustained
• Who is responsible for the accident?

2. Investigates Different Aspects Of Your Case

A bicycle accident lawyer will immediately commence an investigation on the circumstances leading to your accident. The attorney may choose to carry out an inquiry themselves or seek the services of an expert. If they require further information to help your case, they may choose to look at your accident damages or get copies of crash reports and medical records.

They can even go ahead to interview any potential witness. The information gathered by the attorney will be used in determining the party that is at fault.

3. Seeks Fair Compensation For Damages And Injuries Incurred 

When it comes to bicycle-related accidents, insurance adjusters can sometimes downgrade the amount of your loss. This is because they aren’t conversant with the different types of bikes and their price tag. It’s even possible for them to recommend bike repairs, which few people will consider given that they cannot be restored to their original condition.

With the help of a bicycle accident attorney, you’re guaranteed of receiving fair compensation for the damages to your bike. That aside, if you’ve suffered injuries that require hospitalization, seeking the services of a bike accident lawyer is important because they understand the need for proof in your injury claim. That’s why they’ll go ahead to obtain evidence of your damages like

• Mental trauma
• Pain and suffering
• Lost earning capacity
• Treatment costs  

A bike accident attorney will even factor in any future medical expenses and other “hidden” damages that may not be obvious immediately.

4. Handling The Parties Involved In A Case

When you seek the services of a bicycle accident lawyer, they will let the other party involved in a suit know that you’re representing them. If the car driver is at fault, your lawyer will get in touch with the driver’s insurance firm to let them know who’s representing the complainant. 

Following your bicycle accident, you’re most likely going to be contacted by the at-fault party insurance company. This may seem like a harmless move but understand that most insurers will tend to underestimate your injuries and get you to agree. 

They can even ask you to provide a written statement or get you to say something that they’ll later use when prosecuting your case.

When approached by the insurer, it’s best to let your bicycle accident lawyer handle the case. This is because they are better positioned to control communication and ensure that your rights are protected. 

5. Preparing Your Case For Trial 

There may be instances where an insurance company may choose not to negotiate a fair settlement. In such a case, your lawyer can choose to file a lawsuit. The first step will be preparing a complaint letter and beginning the discovery process.

Most lawyers will even try to negotiate before the start of the trial. But, if the negotiations prove unsuccessful, then the lawyer will represent you in the trial.

If you are involved in a bicycle accident, you know that you’re bound to face an uphill battle. Injuries resulting from bikes are the most severe a person can face, given that they offer no protection, except for the helmet. So, if you’re planning on hiring a bike attorney but don’t understand their role and how they may be useful to your case, this guide explores a few of their roles that should be helpful in your quest for justice.