While many cyclists enjoy riding through the streets of Beaumont for traveling convenience and exercise, the unfortunate reality is that there are risks when it comes to sharing the road with automobile drivers. One distracted driver alone has the power to turn what should be an enjoyable ride into a life-altering incident. If this has recently happened to you, a Beaumont bicycle accident lawyer can help you seek justice and the compensation you need to recover.
At Renick Law Firm, PLLC, we have spent decades proving our dedication to standing up for injured cyclists. We ensure that our clients feel like their voices have been heard. It’s true that cyclists face unique challenges when driving on the road, trying to avoid being injured, which is why our legal team will work hard to ensure that all negligent drivers across Beaumont are held accountable for any wrongdoing on their end.
Building a strong bicycle accident claim takes strong collaboration between you and an accident lawyer. It will require gathering substantial evidence to prove someone was liable for causing the accident and calculating the extent of the damages for which you want compensation. Some key types of evidence that can help support your bicycle accident claim include:
One of the most critical pieces of evidence that can be used in bicycle accident cases are police reports. This is because as soon as law enforcement arrives at the scene, they will start to document the details of the crash, like what the accident scene looked like and what witnesses were around who observed the incident. Police reports also include valuable information such as the location, time, and preliminary findings about who was at fault.
Providing photos or videos of the accident scene can also show a clearer picture of what happened. Be sure to take pictures of your damaged bicycle, the vehicles involved, and if there are any skid marks or other changed conditions on the road. Also, documenting traffic signs or road obstructions can be helpful if you believe they also contributed to the accident.
Eyewitnesses can provide an unbiased, third-party account of what happened. They can help to corroborate your version of the events. This is why if you see any bystanders at the accident scene, it’s important to chat with them and collect their contact details. This testimony alone could be crucial to establishing fault, especially if what the unbiased witnesses claim happened conflicts with the driver’s narrative.
Medical records are another essential element for demonstrating injuries from a bicycle accident and the impact they have on your life. These records can include hospital reports, doctor’s notes, the results from diagnostic tests, and treatment plans. You should follow through with all of the recommended medical care, as any gaps in treatment or lack of compliance following a doctor’s orders could be used by an insurance company to downplay your injuries.
If your accident occurred in an area where security cameras exist or if a nearby driver had a dash cam, using this footage in your case can be invaluable. This is because video evidence provides an unbiased account of what happened. Being able to see the chain of events can help bring all relevant stakeholders to the scene of an incident. This can support your claims of what happened and help maximize your compensation payout.
Yes, you can claim compensation for a bicycle accident if someone else has caused your injuries. This can cover your lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, and even the repair or replacement of your bicycle. To claim compensation, you will need to prove that the other party was at fault, whether that is through their own intentional actions or negligence. Having a bicycle accident lawyer can help guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
If your attorney is working on a contingency fee basis, it means they will only get paid if they win your case. The exact percentage they take in the end is something that is mutually agreed upon before they start working on your case. Any cases that proceed to trial may result in higher fees due to the extra time and resources needed. You should always discuss the fee structure before hiring an attorney to avoid any financial surprises.
Determining fault in a bicycle accident depends on the specific circumstances of the collision in question. Drivers are often found at fault if they fail to yield, are distracted while driving, or do not respect a cyclist’s right-of-way. However, this doesn’t mean that cyclists are always free of blame. If they neglect to follow their own set of traffic laws, like riding against traffic or ignoring stop signs, it could put them in a position of vulnerability as well.
If you are hit while riding your bicycle in Beaumont, it’s important to prioritize your safety and health first. Move to a safe location to avoid being hit by another vehicle and call for emergency services. You should also call the police to report the accident and have them on the scene as a witness. Avoid admitting any mistakes to the driver’s insurance company until you have had the chance to consult with an attorney.
If you have recently been hit while on a bicycle in Beaumont and are looking for legal support, contact us today. We know the exact legal avenues to take to ensure you are able to maximize your compensation award and ensure no one is able to evade liability. With our legal team engaged, we can help you explore the full extent of your legal options.