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Injured in a Bicycle Accident in Virginia? Call Daggett Shuler Now For a Free Consultation. A Virginia Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Daggett Shuler Will Fight To Recover The Maximum Compensation For You.
Many injured bicyclists do not get fair treatment from the insurance companies. Recent studies show that settlements for injuries suffered in cars are up to 30% to 40% higher than for the same type of injuries sustained by cyclists.
In many cases, a bicycle accident results from a motorist’s negligence or inattention while operating his or her vehicle. The following are some common types of collisions that a cyclist may be injured in:
A motor vehicle driver turning directly in front of a bicyclist;
An automobile driver entering the street from a driveway or parking spot and pulling out into traffic in front of the bicyclist;
A motorist’s failure to yield at an intersection or running a stop sign or red light;
A vehicle driver’s inattention while driving past a bicyclist;
An automobile driver’s failure to look both ways when resuming travel after stopping at a stop sign;
An automobile driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Our Virginia Bicycle Accident Attorneys will investigate and, where appropriate, closely analyze any damage that occurred to the bicycle, such as chipped paint, stressed metal, bent wheels, and torn brake pads; examine the remains of a bike wreck and seek to counter a motorist’s typical claims that a cyclist was speeding or squeezed the brake levers too hard or swerved into traffic.
Due to increased bike traffic throughout the United States and Virginia, many cities have constructed special bike lanes. Parks now have trails that are accessible to bicycles, and some vehicle manufacturers are even offering bike racks as standard equipment. However, many motor vehicle drivers do not respect the bicyclists’ rights to share the roads, and more importantly, many cyclists have not been adequately educated on how to legally and safely share the roads with automobiles.
Every 6 hours, a bicyclist is fatally injured;
Approximately one million children are injured each year in bicycle-related accidents;
Nearly half of all bicycle fatalities occur in children under the age of 16;
Head injuries account for about 75% of all severe injuries and fatalities from bicycle accidents;
While collisions with cars account for only 1/3rd of all bicycle accidents, they account for most catastrophic injuries and deaths.
Motor vehicle operators must be attentive to all bicycle riders. They must equate a bicycle with a motor vehicle and observe the same laws. For example, if you are sharing the right lane with a bicyclist and planning to turn right at an intersection, you must yield to the bicyclist.
You may not drive in a designated bike lane unless you immediately intend to turn off the road. There are many “new” traffic laws concerning bicycles and ignorance of the laws will not protect you against negligence if you injure a bicyclist.
Suppose you need more specific advice, particularly regarding legal aspects. In that case, it’s a good idea to consult a reputable bicycle accident attorney who can offer guidance based on your situation.
Even if your injuries seem minor, getting evaluated by a healthcare professional is essential. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent.
If you haven’t already, contact the local police to file a report. This can be important for both legal and insurance purposes. Get a copy of the police report if possible.
If you can, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bike or other vehicles involved. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Collect contact and insurance information from any drivers involved in the accident. Also, get contact information from any witnesses who saw what happened.
Report the accident to your insurance company immediately. They can guide you through the claims process and help you understand your coverage options.
Consult with a personal injury lawyer, especially if the accident involves significant injuries or disputes about who is at fault. A lawyer will help you understand your rights and navigate legal claims.
Adhere to your doctor’s treatment and follow-up care recommendations. Keep records of all medical treatments, prescriptions, and any related expenses.
Maintain a detailed record of your injuries, treatment, and how the accident has impacted your daily life. This can be helpful for insurance claims and any potential legal action.
Be cautious about discussing fault or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of liability. Stick to the facts when talking to insurance companies or legal representatives.
Prioritize your health and recovery. Dealing with an injury can be stressful, so take care of yourself physically and emotionally.
In Virginia, bicycle laws are in place to promote safety for both cyclists and motorists. These include:
These laws are intended to ensure the safety of cyclists and integrate them into the flow of traffic. It's always recommended to check local regulations for any additional rules that may apply in your specific area.
As an injured bicyclist in Virginia, you have several legal rights and protections. Here’s an overview of what you should know:
You can seek compensation for medical expenses related to your injuries. This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, rehabilitation, and other related medical costs. If your injuries cause you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. You can also seek damages for pain and suffering, which includes physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
You can file a claim with their insurance company if a motorist is at fault. Virginia operates under a fault-based insurance system, meaning the at-fault party’s insurance covers damages. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, or involved in a hit-and-run, you may need to file a claim with your own insurance company if you have coverage for such situations (e.g., uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage).
You have the right to hire a personal injury attorney specializing in bicycle accidents. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary.
Suppose a settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company. In that case, you can file a lawsuit against the responsible party to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
You have the right to be treated fairly by insurance companies and legal representatives. This includes receiving a reasonable settlement offer and being informed of your rights and options throughout the claims process.
You have the right to access evidence related to your case, including police reports, witness statements, and medical records. Your attorney can help obtain and review this evidence.
Our attorneys have helped clients with legal support through workers’ compensation, Social Security Disability, personal injury, car accident claims, and more. Our clients know that we stand beside them when they are going through a difficult time. Read reviews from real clients, and if you had a positive experience with Daggett Shuler Law, please consider leaving a review.
Contact the attorneys at Daggett Shuler today for a consultation about your case. You can depend on us.
