Bicycle Accidents Lawyers in Savannah Giving Our Clients the Legal Help They Deserve
Bicycling is a great way to get exercise, save money on gas, and help the environment, but it can also be dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2020, there were 938 bicyclist fatalities and 49,000 bicycle-related injuries. Chatham County has the highest rate of cycling accidents in the State of Georgia, according to previous studies. The fatality percentage has jumped by 25% since 2010. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you need an experienced Savannah injury attorney who understands the law and will fight for your rights.
At Jarrett & Price LLC, we have been representing injured cyclists for years. We know that when you are hit by a car while riding your bike, you are likely to suffer serious injuries. These injuries can include head trauma, spinal cord damage, broken bones, lacerations, and road rash. We will work with experts to determine the full extent of your injuries and how they have impacted your life. We will then negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation possible for your losses.
Georgia law requires motorists to share the road with bicyclists. Unfortunately, many drivers do not take this responsibility seriously, and as a result, cyclists are often injured in preventable accidents. If you have been hit by a car while riding your bicycle, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, lost wages, medical bills, and other losses. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Jarrett & Price LLC will fight to get you the money you deserve. Call us today at (855)-909-3021 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
What Are the Most Typical Causes and Injuries in Bicycle Accidents?
Bicycling is a healthy, eco-friendly activity that has many benefits. However, cyclists are also vulnerable to accidents on the roadways. Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed in bicycle accidents.
Most bicycle accidents are caused by the negligence of drivers. For example, a driver may fail to yield to a cyclist at an intersection or make a sudden turn into the path of a cyclist. Other common causes of bicycle accidents include:
- Road hazards such as potholes or debris
- Poorly maintained bicycles
- Dangerous weather conditions
- Reckless driving
- Disregard traffic laws
Bicycle accidents can result in serious injury, including broken bones, internal bleeding, road rash, and concussion. In some cases, cyclists may even be paralyzed or killed. These bicycle accident injuries can have a profound impact on the victim’s life.
Broken bones can take weeks or months to heal properly and may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Internal bleeding can be life-threatening and may require hospitalization. Road rash can cause severe skin irritation and infections and may require long-term treatment. Concussions can cause long-term health problems, such as memory loss and headaches. In some cases, cyclists may be paralyzed or killed in a bicycle accident. These injuries can have a devastating effect on the victim’s life. They may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation and may prevent the victim from returning to work or enjoying activities they once loved.
What Damages Can I Get After a Bicycle Accident?
After a bicycle accident, you may be saddled with hefty medical expenses, missed income, and other losses. If the incident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you might be able to recoup these damages via a personal injury lawsuit.
The number of damages you can recover will depend on the specific facts of your case. Some of the most common types of damages that are awarded in bicycle accident cases include:
- Medical expenses: You may also recover the costs of any medical care related to your injuries, including hospitalization, operations, medicine, rehabilitation, and other expenses.
- Lost wages: If you are unable to work as a result of your injuries, you can recoup your lost earnings. This covers both past and future lost income.
- Pain and suffering: You can seek compensation for the physical and emotional suffering you have endured as a result of your injuries.
- Property damage: If your bicycle or other property was damaged in the accident, you can recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
- Punitive Damages: Punitive damages can be awarded in certain circumstances. These are intended to penalize the negligent party and deter others from doing the same thing.
What Will My Bicycle Accident Claim Look Like?
The first thing you should know is that every case is different, so it’s impossible to say for sure what yours will entail. However, some elements are common in many bicycle accident claims. Here’s a look at some of the things you can expect:
1. Initial Investigation
The first step in any personal injury claim is an investigation. Your lawyer will need to gather evidence to support your claim. This may include things like police reports, witness statements, and photos or videos of the accident scene. Your medical records will also be important in showing the extent of your injuries.
2. Demand Letter
Once the investigation is complete, your lawyer will draft a demand letter and send it to the at-fault party’s insurance company. This letter will outline your injuries and damages and request a fair settlement amount. If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, your lawyer may file a lawsuit.
3. Negotiation and Settlement
In many cases, the insurance company will agree to negotiate after receiving the demand letter. Your lawyer will work to get you the best possible settlement, which may include payment for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. If an agreement can’t be reached, your case may go to trial.
4. Trial
If your case goes to trial, a judge or jury will hear evidence from both sides and decide who is liable for your injuries. If you win, you will be awarded damages. If you lose, you may still be able to appeal the decision.
Why Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer After My Bike Accident?
While you are not required to hire a lawyer after a bike accident, it is often in your best interest to do so. Personal injury lawyers have the experience and knowledge necessary to build a strong case on your behalf. They will also be able to handle all of the paperwork and red tape involved in filing a claim.
At Jarrett & Price LLC, we understand how difficult it can be after a bicycle accident. We will work with you every step of the way to make the process as easy as possible. We will handle all communication with insurance companies and the at-fault party so you can focus on healing. We will fight for the money you deserve so you can cover your medical expenses and other damages. To learn more about the potential damages you could recover in your case, contact our firm today at (855)-909-3021 to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced bicycle accident lawyers.