When a bicyclist is hit by a motorist, it can be quite catastrophic. You and your loved ones can be left with huge medical bills. On top of that, there could be serious injuries inflicted on the cyclist. Here in Victorville, CA, the laws protect both the motorist and cyclist, but most of the times insurance companies tend not to offer a fair settlement when these types of cases are brought to their attention.
Being in such a delicate situation can be quite confusing and at the same time very difficult due to the bills incurred. You should not get worried as you can always get a good Victorville bicycle accident lawyer to help you seek things out and get the necessary compensation.
If you want a trusted Victorville car accident lawyer for your bike accident case, call Crockett Law Group today at (800) 900-9393 for a free consultation.
Table of Contents
Why Should I Hire a Bike Accident Lawyer?
Below are some of the benefits of hiring a Victorville bicycle accident bicycle lawyer from Crockett Law Group.Your Full Recovery Is Their First Priority
Health comes first. Having a good bicycle accident lawyer will smoothen your recovery process as they make sure that you receive the best possible treatment to help you recover fully.You Get the Best Legal Advice on Proving Fault
Most of the time these kinds of cases have proven to be very difficult to deal with. Having a good bicycle lawyer provides you with a good opportunity to get your full compensation. The success of your claim can only be determined by the ability of your lawyer to determine that the other party was at fault.You Get Peace of Mind
Having a good bicycle accident lawyer provides you with the right state of mind and more importantly, the peace of mind that you deserve. Your lawyer is obligated to handle all the matters about your case, hence you have enough time to recover and rest well.What Are the Bicycle Laws in Victorville, California?
Are you looking for a bicycle lawyer who is well conversant with the rule of law here in Victorville, CA? Then look no further. Here at Crockett Law Group, we will have your compensation case started with immediate effect. Our top priority is to get you the compensation you deserve as soon as possible. Below are some of the laws that every cyclist should be aware of here in Victorville, CA.All Bicyclists Are Expected to Adhere to Vehicle Codes
Both vehicle drivers and adult bicyclists have the same duties and responsibilities. They are expected to follow all traffic laws. For instance, stop at stop signs just like all other road usersKeep on the Right Side of the Road
If you can ride as fast as the traffic, then you can ride right in the traffic lane. If you notice you are moving slower than the traffic, then you are expected to ride on the edge of the road and the right-hand side of the road. It is also necessary to avoid conditions that make it dangerous to ride along the right-hand side edge such as pedestrians walking nearby.Stop at the Crosswalk
Crosswalks are strictly for pedestrians and not for bicycles or cars. This is to ensure that you give the pedestrians ample time to cross the road and eliminate any confusion that may cause an accident.
Have a Reflector and Lights on While Riding At Night
Having a reflector on or a white light enables the other road users to notice your presence. Ensure that your white light is visible at least 250 to three hundred feet. Ensure that your bike has the following; a red reflector and a well flashing red light.How Is Fault Determined in Bike Accidents in California?
Your lawyer must prove that defendant was negligent. There are four elements of negligence:- Duty of Care: Everyone using the road has a duty to obey traffic laws and take care to avoid accidents.
- Breach of Duty: Your lawyer must prove that the defendant failed in their duty of care, for example by running a red light.
- Causation: Your lawyer must prove the defendant’s actions caused the accident.
- Damages: Your lawyer must prove you suffered injuries in the accident.
What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?
A bike accident is a frightening experience. It’s important to keep these steps in mind.Contact Police
Do not leave the scene of the accident before the police get there, as there may be injuries or property damage. Call them immediately or have a witness call 911 to the scene of the accident. The police will verify who is at fault, and the evidence they gather will be crucial during your compensation case. Police will also have evidence of fault.Exchange Information
Exchange information on insurance with the other party. Ensure you get their name, address, license plate number, insurance policy number, and the make of their vehicle.Record the Scene
Use your phone to record any injuries, property damage, and to get witness statements. These will be a crucial part of determining exactly what happened. You should also record any landmarks and road signs that can help your case.Never Admit Fault
Do not take responsibility for the accident even when you feel sure it was your fault. There may be other aspects in play. Admitting fault may cause you to lose the right to compensation, and may also mean that the motorist can sue you for compensation. Do not negotiate with the motorist either, as you may not be aware of the full extent of your injuries.Seek Medical Attention
Get treatment from a professional and keep the documents to show that your injuries (if any) were caused by the bicycle accident. Do not ignore any injuries even if you feel that they are minor. You should also record your symptoms over the next few days.Call a Bike Accident Lawyer!
Do not hesitate to call a Victorville bicycle accident lawyer to represent you. Avoid speaking to insurance companies before getting the advice of an experienced bicycle accident lawyer as insurance company lawyers will do all they can to protect their companies. They may use what you say against you and try to deny your rightful compensation.
What Types of Damages Can You Recover From a Bicycle Accident Claim?
There are three types recoverable in a bicycle accident claim:- Economic damages compensate the victim of the costs related to the injuries. They include damages such as medical costs, lost income, damage to property damaged during the crash, loss of future income, etc.
- Non-economic damages include pain and suffering endured as a result of the accident, loss of companionship, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of affection, and such. They are to compensate the victim for the emotional and psychological trauma that they suffer from the accident.
- Punitive damages are awarded when the at-fault party was guilty of intentional harm or extreme recklessness.
