Many Spring Hill residents ride bikes to commute to work or simply enjoy the outdoors. Not only is biking enjoyable, but it is also a healthy, eco-friendly mode of transportation. Despite all the benefits of cycling, it can be a potentially dangerous activity.
Bikes are obviously much smaller than cars, and unfortunately, many motorists fail to take caution of cyclists sharing the road. When a motor vehicle collides with a bike, the force of impact can result in devastating injuries for the cyclist. These types of accidents are often life-threatening. Common injuries from cycling accidents may include:
- Back or Neck Injuries
- Brain Injuries
- Fractures
- Nerve Damage
- Paralysis
No one should have to suffer due to another person’s carelessness. So, if you or a loved one were harmed while riding a bike, talk to a Spring Hill personal injury attorney about your legal options. If someone else caused your accident, you have the right to pursue a lawsuit against them.
Retaining a Spring Hill bicycle accident lawyer could be the best thing you do for your claim. Get in touch with Hancock Injury Attorneys to learn more about what we can do for you and how we will protect your interests.
What Are The Leading Causes Of Bicycle Accidents?
Bicycle accidents can occur for a number of reasons. Some of the more common causes of bicycle accidents include the following:
- Improper merging of lanes
- Inattentive or distracted driving
- Failure to yield properly
- Left-hand turn collisions
- Speeding
Often, there are many factors leading to a severe collision. Additionally, if there is more than one negligent party, the case can become much more complex. We have also represented clients who had a bike accident caused by improper trail conditions, which a city or municipality can potentially be liable for.
A skilled bicycle accident attorney can review the facts of your case to determine who is primarily at-fault and whether you have a valid case.
Avoiding Accusations Of Partial Fault In Bicycle Collision Cases
Proving that the other party was negligent is a vital step in any personal injury case. However, you must be prepared for allegations of partial fault. Florida is a comparative negligence state, meaning you can have your damages award reduced by your percentage of fault.
Taking the following safety precaution can also help you avoid any accusations of partial fault in the event of an accident:
- Obey traffic laws
- Navigate around hazards when possible
- Ride with the flow of traffic
- Wear bright clothing and reflectors
A seasoned lawyer in Spring Hill can help you show evidence of the safety precautions you took to avoid a cycling accident.
What Are The Steps To Take Following A Cycling Collision?
If you were injured in a bicycle accident, the first thing you should do is seek medical help. Once you have gotten a proper medical evaluation and begun treatment, consider speaking with a legal professional about your case.
To effectively initiate a civil injury claim, you must draft, file, and serve a complaint (i.e., a legal document expressing your grievances and legal recourse) against the at-fault party. You will then need to proceed with pre-trial negotiations, including the exchange of interrogatories and depositions. If you cannot settle the issue in negotiations, you may have to go to court.
Completing all of these steps can be challenging, especially if you are still recovering from the accident. This is why it is best to have legal representation with pursuing a bicycle accident case.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help?
The legal process for personal injury cases is complex, and it is crucial that you comply with all procedural requirements. Failing to follow these critical legal processes can be detrimental to your case. A simple error could result in the court dismissing your case, ruining your chances of obtaining compensation.
As a victim, you often have questions that are hard to find answers to, such as is the insurance company going to compensate me fairly? Although an insurance company may offer you a settlement quickly after the accident, many times they are offering the least amount of money they can, to get you to accept. We can make sure you completely understand this process and feel confident that we will always protect your rights and best interests. Instead of attempting to handle a case alone, seek legal help, and improve your chances of success.
Schedule A Consultation With A Spring Hill Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
Cycling injury claims can be difficult for injured parties to pursue independently. Due to the high rates of severe injuries and fatalities, you must pursue compensation for all your current and future economic and non-economic losses.
If a bicycle accident has left you or your beloved family member reprehensibly and detrimentally impaired, you may have a viable legal claim through which to recover monetary damages. For more information on the legal services that our Spring Hill bicycle accident lawyers can provide you, call our firm today.