Hit by a Car While Riding a Bike?
Call a San Diego Bicycle Accident Attorney with a Passion for Representing Cyclists
According to California law, a bicycle is a vehicle, meaning that cyclists must follow the same laws and have the same rights as motorists. However, unlike car and truck drivers, bicycle riders are especially vulnerable in the event of a crash, particularly a wreck involving an automobile. Without the protective shell and safety features of a vehicle, a cyclist may suffer serious injuries or wrongful death. After a crash, you may face thousands of dollars in medical bills, weeks or months of lost wages and other expenses. Additionally, you may be unable to return to cycling. While you may be able to file an insurance claim with the at-fault driver’s provider, it can be difficult to get fair compensation. The insurance company may undervalue your bike, downplay the seriousness of your injuries or try to blame you for the wreck.
San Diego bicycle accident attorney Bonnici Law Group is as passionate about cycling as he is about the law. He regularly bikes to work and proudly supports the Blind Stokers Club. If you are hurt in a bike accident, then he can help defend you against the insurance company’s tactics and will work to ensure you get the full compensation you deserve. As a cyclist himself, Joshua understands the physical and emotional toll a bike accident can take. Therefore, he takes a particular interest in advocating for Californians injured in cycling accidents. In a free initial consultation, he can explain your legal options and answer your questions with no further obligation.
What Should I Do After a Bike Accident?
If you are hurt while riding, taking certain steps can help you avoid difficulties when you later file a bicycle accident claim. Steps to take immediately after a bike accident include:
- Call an ambulance. Your first priority after any type of bike accident is your health. Many bike accident victims require immediate, life-saving treatment at a hospital. However, even if you initially feel fine, allow the EMTs and medical professionals at a hospital to check you for injuries that may not appear right away.
- Speak to the police. A police report can be valuable evidence in an insurance claim and/or personal injury lawsuit. Give your side of the story, but only stick to the facts as you know them. Do not speculate as to what may have happened if you are unsure.
- Take pictures. If you are able, take photos or a video of the crash site, including your injuries and damage to your bike.
- Get information from the driver and witnesses. Write down the name and contact information for the at-fault driver as well as anyone who witnessed the accident.
Once you are safe at home or recovering in the hospital, you should take additional steps to protect your claim. As soon as you are able, you should:
- Contact an attorney. An attorney can advise you on what to do and what mistakes to avoid. Additionally, he or she can take over all communication with the insurance company.
- Keep a record of all medical treatment. Preserve hospital and doctor bills as well as keep a journal of all treatments and medications you receive.
- DO NOT give a statement to an insurance adjuster. You do not have to give a statement to a car driver’s insurance adjuster. Instead, direct any calls to your attorney or refuse to answer questions until you have time to get legal advice.
- DO NOT repair your bike. Your attorney and the insurance company will need to examine the extent of the damage to your bike.
How Can a Bicycle Accident Attorney Help After a Crash?
After a bike accident, you may be able to recover compensation through an insurance claim or lawsuit. However, navigating these legal processes is difficult, even without the added stress of your injuries or a loved one’s wrongful death. A bicycle accident attorney can handle the technical aspects of filing a claim and can give you the best chance of a fair recovery by:
- Explaining California bicycle laws. Your lawyer can advise you of your rights according to bike laws and regulations. You can get this legal guidance with no obligation in a free initial consultation.
- Preserving evidence. While you focus on healing, your attorney can visit the crash scene, speak to witnesses, examine your bike and take charge of other evidence.
- Working with experts to find fault. Accident reconstructionists and other experts can reinforce your claim and help prove your damages.
- Handling negotiation and/or litigation. An attorney can relieve the stress of handling a legal claim. Additionally, knowing that a professional is looking out for your best interests can give you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on healing.
- Finding the true cost of your accident. Since Joshua Bonnici is a cyclist himself, he has insight into the sport and the costs associated with repairing or replacing your bike. Additionally, he has the experience necessary to handle the tactics insurance companies use to downplay your injuries.
Learn More in a Free Consultation with a San Diego Bicycle Accident Attorney
If you sustained serious bicycle injuries or lost a loved one in a cycling accident, then our law firm may be able to help. As a San Diego bicycle accident attorney, Bonnici Law Group has the experience and industry knowledge required to evaluate your situation and offer you legal guidance. Call (619) 853-5101 or contact us online to schedule your free initial consultation today.