In the aftermath of a bicycle accident, you need an experienced attorney on your side to help you navigate the legal process and also provide you with much-needed support so you can focus on your recovery. Bicycle accidents are known to cause serious injuries. In some cases, the bicyclists may suffer from temporary or permanent disability.
If the bicycle accident was the fault of any party, whether an individual or company, you have the legal right to seek compensation for the damages caused by the accident.
At Jacobs and Jacobs Personal Injury Law, we understand the challenges and complexities that come with bicycle accident claims. Our team is committed to fighting for injured cyclists and securing the compensation they deserve. Let us help you through the process. Contact us to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our personal injury attorneys.
How to Know If You Have a Bicycle Accident Case
- Were you injured? – If you require medical treatment, hospitalization, or physical therapy, you may have a claim.
- Was another party at fault? – If a driver, road hazard, or defective bicycle part contributed to the accident, you may be entitled to compensation.
- Does the responsible party have insurance? – A lawyer can help navigate claims against auto insurers, city agencies, or product manufacturers.
Why Choose Jacobs and Jacobs Personal Injury Law for Your Bicycle Accident Case?
At Jacobs and Jacobs Personal Injury Law, we have experience in all types of personal injury cases. Our attorneys understand the intricacies and challenges of each type of case, including bicycle accident cases.
Challenges of Bicycle Accident Claims
Bicycle accident cases are often challenging, especially when it comes to securing full and fair compensation for the victims. As bicyclists aren’t protected by airbags, seat belts, and the frame of a vehicle, such accidents often result in more serious injuries. One of the primary challenges in such cases is proving the severity of the injuries
The more severe injuries like head trauma, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and internal bleeding can require long-term medical treatment, rehabilitation, and, in some cases, lifelong care. Additionally, these injuries can affect your quality of life, and the compensation you seek should reflect the full extent of your injuries.
Another common challenge in such cases is the bias faced by cyclists. Many people assume the cyclists would be at fault. These might be people that you come across while dealing with the insurance company, the law enforcement officials at the accident site, or the judge or jury in court.
To overcome this challenge, you can provide evidence showing who was at fault. In the state of Washington, you can recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. So, just because your actions contributed to the accident doesn’t necessarily rule you out from receiving compensation for your losses.
Another challenge is related to establishing liability. In bicycle accident cases, it may be unclear who was responsible for the accident, especially if multiple parties are involved. Whether it’s a negligent motorist, a government agency responsible for road maintenance, or a bicycle manufacturer whose equipment failed, a bicycle accident lawyer Washington can help sort out the facts and hold the responsible party accountable.
What Sets Us Apart?
At Jacobs and Jacobs Personal Injury Law, we believe that every client deserves personalized attention and dedicated support. It allows us to tailor our legal strategy based on the needs of each case. This is one of many aspects that set it apart.
In addition to our personalized approach, our attorneys have extensive experience and a proven track record of success in bicycle accident cases. We use our knowledge and expertise to aggressively advocate for your rights and achieve the best possible results.
Not only do we have the experience and legal knowledge to handle bicycle accidents, we also have an unwavering commitment to ensure our clients get the best possible legal outcome from the case.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Washington State
Victims of bicycle accidents are often unsure about what steps they need to take to protect their rights and ensure their safety. Here’s a quick guide on some of the key actions that you need to take in the aftermath of a bicycle collision. Unique circumstances may apply to your case, but these general steps can help you navigate the situation.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Seeking medical attention after the bicycle accident not only protects your health but also creates a record of your injuries, which can be important if you decide to pursue a claim.
Even more importantly, getting timely attention can help you protect your health and safety. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show immediate symptoms.
Remember to keep a record of all your medical treatment, including your expenses. The emergency treatment you get can also help demonstrate the severity of your injuries and also support your account of how the accident happened.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you can, start gathering evidence that can be used in your insurance claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party. This includes taking photos of the location, your bicycle, the vehicle involved, and any visible injuries you sustained.
It’s also crucial to get contact information from any witnesses and obtain the driver’s details, including their insurance information. If law enforcement is present, ask for a copy of the police report, as it can be a vital piece of evidence in your claim.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Without a Lawyer
If you have insurance coverage for the damages suffered in the accident, you need to notify the insurance company about the incident. While the insurance company is legally bound to meet its obligation to the policyholder, it can employ various tactics to reduce its payout.
It’s best to avoid making any statements or accepting settlement offers without first consulting a Washington bike injury attorney. Anything you say could be used against you later. An experienced lawyer can help protect your interests and ensure you don’t inadvertently harm your case. If needed, they can also handle the communications with the insurance company on your behalf.
Contact a Bicycle Accident Attorney
One of the most important yet overlooked steps to take after a bicycle accident is to consult with an attorney. Victims often make the mistake of not including the attorney early in the process, only to regret this later. The earlier you engage the attorney in the process, the greater impact they can have on your case.
Reaching out to a personal injury attorney who specializes in bicycle accident cases is crucial. An experienced attorney will help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the complex legal process.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Washington State
Bicycle accidents can happen due to various causes. Knowing some of the common causes can help you make informed decisions about your case. It can also help you avoid such accidents. In the following, we have highlighted some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in Washington State.
Human Error
Unfortunately, a high percentage of bicycle accidents are caused by someone’s negligence or wrongdoing. This can include drivers who are distracted, speeding, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Motorists may fail to yield the right of way, not check blind spots, or run red lights, leading to collisions with cyclists. Cyclists can also contribute to accidents by not following traffic laws, riding in unsafe conditions, or making sudden maneuvers.
Road and Environmental Factors
The road and environmental conditions are another leading cause of bicycle accidents in Washington. While some regions in Washington have adequate road infrastructure, other regions need improvement. Poorly maintained roads, potholes, debris, and insufficient lighting can create hazardous conditions for cyclists. The state also has a fair share of harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and fog, which can further complicate safe cycling
Bicycle Equipment Malfunctions
If you’re pedaling down a path when suddenly, your brakes fail or a tire blows out, then it could be the fault of the bicycle or parts manufacturer. Such mechanical glitches can quickly turn a peaceful ride into a hazardous ordeal. However, the manufacturer would only be at fault if the defect wasn’t caused by a lack of regular maintenance.
Bicycle owners are expected to regularly inspect and maintain their bikes to ensure they’re in good working condition. Regular checks for wear and tear, proper inflation of tires, and timely replacement of worn-out parts can prevent many accidents caused by equipment failure.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bicycle Accident?
- Negligent motorists
- Government agencies
- Bicycle manufacturers
- Property owners
- Construction companies
- Bicycle repair shops
- Public transportation operators
- Pedestrians
- Other cyclists
How a Washington State Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
An attorney who has experience in bicycle accident cases can help you in many ways. Initially, they can guide you on how to handle the immediate aftermath of the accident, including seeking medical attention and preserving evidence. They can assist in gathering crucial information such as witness statements, police reports, and photos from the crash site.
Once the lawyer have gathered evidence, they can use that to form their legal strategy to maximize compensation for your suffering. They can negotiate with insurers to seek a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages you may have incurred.
If needed, they can take the case to court, where they can represent you in front of a judge or jury and advocate on your behalf. Beyond legal representation, a dedicated bicycle accident attorney provides emotional support and guidance throughout the process.
Compensation Available for Bicycle Accident Victims
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, home modifications)
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship
- Mental anguish
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
Punitive Damages (When Applicable)
- Awarded in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm
- Designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future
- Reflects the severity of the defendant’s misconduct
- Acts as a warning to others to avoid similar actions
Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents in Washington State
How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Claim?
You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim in Washington State. If you miss this deadline, you may no longer be able to recover compensation for your losses. Check with your attorney if your case qualifies for any exception or exceptions that can provide you with more time to take legal action.
Can I File a Claim If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
Yes, you can still file a claim even if you weren’t wearing a helmet. However, not wearing a helmet may affect the compensation you receive. The state allows you to recover compensation even if you’re partially at fault.
What If the Driver Fled the Scene?
If the driver fled the scene, you can still file a claim. This may be a case of hit and run. The police will investigate to identify the driver, and you may also use your uninsured motorist coverage.
Call a Washington State Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
Have you or your loved one suffered injuries in a bicycle accident in Washington? If you find yourself in a situation where you have been harmed in an incident, you need to take strong and swift action to protect your rights. However, it can often be a complex process to recover full and fair compensation.
Allow us at Jacobs and Jacobs Personal Injury Law to help you through the process. We offer free consultations. Call us at 253-342-4965 to set up a meeting with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys. There are no upfront fees, we only get paid if you win the case. There’s nothing to lose and a lot to gain. Contact us today to get cyclist accident legal help Washington.