Cycling has a lot of inherent benefits. This popular mode of transportation is a great form of exercise, helps avoid traffic jams, and can significantly cut back on fuel costs. However, sharing the road with motor vehicles is often perilous.
If you’re in a bicycle accident, I can help you get payment for your medical costs and loss of income. Here are five reasons to hire a bicycle lawyer, if you get in a cycling accident.
THOROUGH KNOWLEDGE OF THE LAW
I specialize in cycling accidents and have an in-depth knowledge of Vermont laws. As each state treats cyclists a little differently, so it’s valuable to have someone on your side who knows Vermont practices. Most of the time I can quickly be able to determine whether or not you have a case. Rather than deciding for yourself – with likely no prior legal knowledge – it’s worth calling me for a free consultation. I can be reached at [nap_phone id=”LOCAL-REGULAR-NUMBER-1″].
ABILITY TO EVALUATE NON-DRIVER CHARGES
When most cyclists think of a bicycle accident case, they tend to think of a motor vehicle collision. However, there are many other types of accidents that can create the foundation for legal proceedings.
For example, someone leaving things extended onto a sidewalk could also cause an accident. Or a box could fly out of the back of a pickup truck knocking the cyclist over. Additionally, if your bike malfunctioned, you could have a case against the manufacturer.
There are a lot of variables that could result in having an accident, beyond getting hit by a driver. I can look at the scene and find the right course of action.
BEST CHANCE AT GETTING COMPENSATION
If you get in a cycling accident with a vehicle, there’s a good chance you’ll sustain some kind of injury. Furthermore, your bike could be completely destroyed. As many cyclists spend thousands of dollars on their bikes, this can be a significant financial loss.
Working with me is the best possible way to get compensation for your injuries and damages. Otherwise, you may find yourself unable to work, suffer significant pain without compensation and facing unforetold medical bills. Hiring a lawyer isn’t about profiting from your accident — it’s about protecting your health and financial well-being.
HELP WITH UNCLEAR FAULT CASES
Everyone makes mistakes, even the most vigilant cyclists. So what happens when the accident has unclear blame or shared fault? For example, if you missed checking your blind spot and got sideswiped by a vehicle while changing lanes. If this is the case, an attorney can help protect your best interests and possibly get you a percentage of the settlement.
Depending on what transpired, the settlement may not be as much as if the accident was completely the other person’s fault. However, maybe it’s a comparative negligence case and the result is something is better than nothing. Your attorney will help negotiate on your behalf to minimize your financial risk.
LACK OF INSURANCE ON BICYCLES
Finally, while most drivers are required to have insurance on their motor vehicles, few cyclists have insurance on their bikes. However you may have medical payments and uninsured motorist coverage from your car insurance that could compensate you for your damages.
In the event of an accident, a driver will have an insurance company fighting against you to protect their client. Hiring an attorney can help you put a protective barrier in front of yourself, and then can handle communications on your behalf. By doing so, you mitigate the risk of saying the wrong thing or accepting a settlement below what you deserve.
Remember to practice safe cycling while on the road to reduce the risk of an accident. If you do get in an accident, however, have someone document the scene and seek medical help immediately.