A bicycle accident typically involves more than just the driver. Other cars or hazardous road conditions are frequently liable for causing a bicycle accident. When this happens, the bicyclist may be entitled to compensation from the responsible party. Suppose you were injured in a collision caused by a motorist’s negligence. In that case, it’s a good idea to speak with an experienced Memphis bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. The length of time you must prepare and file a claim is regulated under state law. A reputable personal injury attorney knowledgeable about bicycle incidents can analyze your case and explain your recovery alternatives.
Before an injured cyclist can receive compensation, it is necessary to prove that the negligence or recklessness conduct directly caused the accident. Even if the bicyclist were partially to blame for the collision, shared responsibility would only limit the amount the accident victim receives; it will not prevent the victim from seeking compensation from other persons who are culpable. A Memphis bicycle accident lawyer can investigate the accident to discover what caused it and who was at fault. Although most bike accidents are unintentional, this does not absolve anyone of responsibility for the harm inflicted. When an automobile driver or other person fails to exercise reasonable care, and their mistake is shown to contribute to the cause of an accident, that party should be held accountable.
Suppose a bicyclist can show that a defendant was negligent in causing an accident. In that case, compensation may be available, and it may cover various damages. Payments could be made to compensate for both economic and non-economic losses. A bicycle accident can cause the following financial losses:
- Loss of wages
- Medical bills
- Decreased future earning potential
- Anticipated medical expenses
- Non-economic damages, such as pain or emotional distress, can have an even bigger negative influence on the life of a bicycle.
Although these intangible qualities have no monetary worth, a Memphis bicycle accident lawyer could calculate a reasonable sum to demand based on legal precedent.
When it comes to claiming damages, quick action might make a big difference.
It’s a good idea to start looking into and preserving evidence as soon as possible after a bicycle accident to prove the cause. Because the accident scene may change over time, acquiring detailed images as quickly as possible is preferable. Traffic cameras may have captured the incident, but unless someone intervenes, the recording may be lost. Witnesses may also become more challenging to locate as time passes, and their memories may become less precise. A Memphis bicycle accident lawyer can begin gathering evidence right away. Furthermore, a legal advocate can ensure that the lawsuit is ready to file before the one-year statute of limitations runs out, giving you the best chance of success.
When insurance adjusters and investigators interrogate you and demand statements after a bike accident, it might be challenging to focus on your physical recovery. When you engage with an experienced Memphis bicycle accident lawyer, they can answer your concerns.
Our dedicated legal attorneys can fight for fair compensation that covers your losses and meets your future needs. Although a lawsuit will not restore your health or the time you have lost due to another’s wrongdoing, it can provide you and your family with financial relief. Call today at (800)-560-5059 for a free consultation to understand how to help you with your problem.
Why Choose Us?
Accidents involving bicycles and their consequences can be severe, if not fatal. Suppose you or a loved one has been injured or died due to any of the injuries mentioned above. In that case, you are entitled to compensation and justice. Due to Tennessee’s statutes of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death, you have one year from the date of the accident to submit a claim. A Memphis bicycle accident attorney can assist you with this when you contact our law firm. Our experienced lawyers in Memphis will manage your case from start to finish. We can help you gather pre-filing evidence and then file a personal injury or wrongful death claim on your behalf. We are familiar with Tennessee filing procedures and will file papers and court documents, meet filing deadlines, and handle other time-consuming tasks. Call us today for free consultation at (800)-560-5059 to discuss your case.
Common Questions About Bicycle Accident Lawsuit
What Should You Do If You’ve Been in a Bicycle Accident?
After a bicycle accident in Memphis, you may be unsure of what to do next. After an accident, the measures you follow can have a big impact on your ability to make a claim and get the most money possible. After a bicycle accident in Memphis, take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention.
- Make a 911 call.
- Request a police report.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions and treatment plan.
- Inform the at-fault driver of your findings.
- Obtain information from eyewitnesses
- Obtain accident-related evidence.
- Keep your bike from becoming damaged.
- Keep a pain journal to track your progress.
- Consult a lawyer before speaking with an insurance company.
- Do not sign anything until you have spoken with an attorney.
- Avoid using social media.
What Causes Bicycle Accidents?
Because of other drivers, bicyclists in Memphis face numerous problems and dangers. Even the highways in Memphis, though, may be dangerous. Potholes, debris, and other road hazards can cause bicycles to lose control when riding.
We understand that bicycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. Our attorneys are dedicated to thoroughly examining each accident to determine what caused it and who is to blame.
The following are few of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in Memphis:
- Drivers who are not paying attention
- Drunk motorists
- Distracted drivers
- Tired drivers
- Careless pedestrians
- Roads in poor condition
- Accidents involving doors
- Speeding
- Too close to the action
What are the Injuries Caused by Bicycle Accidents?
Bicyclists are unprotected against the forces of an accident. They can sustain severe and fatal injuries even if they are wearing a helmet. After a tragic accident, our Memphis bicycle accident lawyers work tirelessly to assist injured riders to obtain the justice they deserve. We understand how serious bike injuries may be and how they can have a long-term impact on your life and future.
We’ve assisted bikers in Memphis who have sustained a range of injuries, including:
- Bones are broken.
- Injuries to the brain
- Paralysis
- Injury to the spinal cord
- Injury to the head and neck
- Bruises and lacerations
- Damage to the muscles
- Burns
- Whiplash
- Damage to internal organs
What Kinds of Payments Can You Expect?
You can seek compensation for economic and non-economic damages following a bicycle accident. These damages must be paid by the driver who caused your collision. Bicyclists who have been injured can seek compensation for the following:
- Expenses for medical treatment: After a bicycle accident, medical fees are frequently expensive. Hospitalizations, treatments, rehabilitation, and long-term care may necessitate financial assistance.
- Medical costs in the future: Injuries can take months or even years to heal. They may never fully recover in some cases. Future medical expenses should be factored into whatever payment you get.
- Wages have been lost: When you’re hurt in a bicycle accident, you’re likely to miss work for a while. You have the right to demand compensation for your lost earnings.
- Future earnings are lost: You may be unable to return to work if your cycle injuries result in a permanent disability. Your settlement should compensate you for the loss of future earnings that you would have been able to generate if you hadn’t been hurt.
- Suffering and pain: It can be tough to enjoy life in the same way after a bicycle accident. It’s possible that you won’t be able to pick up your children, participate in active activities, or even attend parties.
Have you ever been hit by a car while bicycling?
Drivers frequently forget that bicyclists share the road with them. While a bicycle has the same legal rights as a car, it is far more vulnerable to accidents. An accident between a vehicle and a cycle might result in serious injury to the rider. Bicycles, like any other vehicle, are required to observe the rules of the road. However, vehicles may fail to pay attention to bicyclists or forget to share the road, resulting in an accident appropriately.
Why Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Memphis?
After a bicycle accident, insurance companies frequently blame the cyclist for some or all of the fault. They also pressure injured bicyclists who are still in the hospital or healing since they know they are desperate for money. They aim to persuade people to sign low-ball settlements that aren’t even close to what they’re owed. They do so to limit their liability.
As a result, bicyclists who have been hurt need an accident attorney on their side who will fight for them. The first step toward obtaining maximum compensation is to hire a bicycle accident attorney in Memphis. When an injured cyclist has legal representation, insurance companies often negotiate differently.
Questions To Ask Your Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Do I Have a Case?
You might be wondering if you have a case if you were in a bicycle accident in Memphis. According to the law, the driver who caused the accident is also liable for the damages. Because Tennessee is an “at-fault” state, this is the case. You could submit a claim or a personal injury lawsuit if you were injured in a bicycle accident that wasn’t your fault. Our Memphis bicycle accident lawyers are dedicated to assisting you following a collision. We can evaluate your accident to see if you have grounds to initiate a case against the at-fault party.
How can your Law Firm’s Bicycle Accident Lawyer assist me with my case?
It might be challenging to determine who is responsible for a bicycle accident involving a vehicle when you have been wounded. We understand that you have any concerns and questions, and we will do all possible to assist you. The bicycle accident lawyers at our law firm will review your case and assist you in gathering any evidence necessary to prove that the driver or another party’s negligence caused the bicycle accident and injuries, such as witness statements, police reports, photos from the accident, documents with damage details, speaking with experts about the accident, and anything else. Furthermore, if your injuries are extremely severe, your insurance or driver’s insurance may not cover them. These injuries could include:
- Concussions
- Injuries to the brain
- Injuries to the back
- If you break your neck, you’ll be in serious trouble.
- Injuries to the spinal cord
- Paralysis from Broken Bones
- Death
Insurance companies may also try to persuade you to settle. However, it would be best if you talked with one of our attorneys before signing anything.
One of our knowledgeable and compassionate bicycle accident attorneys will assist you in recovering compensation for different injuries, as well as future medical expenses, lost wages due to an injury, and any compensation for physical, mental, or emotional pain and suffering that you may have suffered as a result of the accident.
Bicycle Accident Lawsuit Process
Suppose you have experienced a bicycle accident. Your life has changed completely by getting expensive medical bills and lost wages. In that case, you should file a claim against the person responsible for all of this. Memphis lets people who have suffered from bicycle accidents file a lawsuit to receive compensation. This amount of money can be used to pay your medical bills, cover your lost wages and other financial problems. These are the steps to take if you or your loved one has recently experienced a bicycle accident:
Take pictures and collect data
When you arrive on the scene, take photos of the stage, the damage, your injuries, and the contact information of any involved parties or witnesses. It is critical to obtain the at-fault party’s names, addresses, phone numbers, and motor insurance information. Obtain the officers’ names, badge numbers, and police report numbers when they arrive.
Seek medical assistance
If you suspect you have been hurt in any way, go to the hospital as soon as possible for an official medical evaluation.
Seek legal advice.
While you may be able to pursue legal action on your own, you may overlook crucial procedures that could make a difference. Seek out a local squad as soon as possible and get going. The more serious the accident, the more critical it is to retain legal counsel.
Negotiation
A lawyer can frequently settle a personal injury claim outside of court by demanding the insurance company or the defendant’s attorney. Injuries that result in long-term disability may necessitate filing a lawsuit. If filing a lawsuit is the best option, it will take time. After analyzing the facts and medical records related to your injury, an attorney will be best qualified to explain this.
File a Claim for Personal Injuries
You have one year to go to court and file a case. The following items may be included in the trial discovery stage:
- The two parties are interrogating each other, as well as a request for documentation.
- Relevant witnesses are called to testify, and a settlement discussion is held. Many times, the legal teams can reach an understanding.
- In some circumstances, a mediator is brought in to help the parties reach an agreement outside of court.
If necessary, go to trial
If mediation fails to reach an amicable agreement, the court will schedule your case for trial. Depending on the case, the trial could last a single day or several weeks. The trial may be postponed after the stated date to accommodate the judge’s schedule, so plan.
Make a decision
The court will announce the conclusion of the trial and, if necessary, issue a judgment award. If money is collected, your attorney will be paid a contingency fee. If no money is received, you will not be required to pay a fee to your lawyer.