Imagine you’re cycling through Las Vegas, enjoying the city’s sights on a sunny day, when suddenly, a car fails to yield, colliding with your bike.
In a flash, everything changes. You find yourself dealing with bruises, broken bones, and a mountain of medical expenses.
According to the Nevada Department of Transportation’s (NDOT) traffic crash map, the Las Vegas metro area had 50,312 car accident injuries. What are the chances that you could be the next victim of a bike accident and need to handle bicycle accident claims?
Bicycle Accident Claims: What To Remember
Beyond the pain, bicycle accident victims have to deal with much more. There’s the frustration of lost workdays, mounting bills, and a complex insurance system that seems designed to make things harder.
In situations like these, where another driver’s negligence disrupts your life, seeking a personal injury law firm can be essential.
Yet, the thought of hiring a lawyer, especially when you’re already overwhelmed, might feel daunting. Questions pop up—how much does a bicycle accident lawyer cost?
Can they really help manage the insurance claim? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about working with a bicycle accident lawyer after a bicycle crash. We will help you understand costs, benefits, and how to pursue the compensation you deserve.
What Do Bicycle Accident Lawyers Charge?
Most bicycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t have to pay them unless they win your case.
Typically, a contingency fee is about one-third of the compensation awarded, though it can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s experience.
Make sure you have a written agreement to clarify all details about fees, including additional costs like filing fees or expert witness fees.
Additional Costs Associated with a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
In addition to the contingency fee, there may be other costs associated with hiring a lawyer for a bicycle accident claim.
These could include costs for obtaining medical records, filing fees, and expert witness fees. While these expenses are relatively low, some personal injury law firms may require you to repay these costs if they help secure a settlement.
It’s essential to clarify any conditions in advance, so you understand the financial commitments involved in pursuing your case.
Why Hire an Experienced Bicycle Accident Attorney?
Hiring an experienced bicycle accident attorney offers several benefits. They understand the complexities of personal injury claims and know how to counter the tactics used by an insurance company trying to reduce your settlement.
If you’ve suffered serious injuries, a skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal system, manage paperwork, and handle all communications with the insurance company.
1. Maximize Your Financial Compensation
Insurance companies are often focused on minimizing payouts to injury victims, which is why having an experienced lawyer is so important.
A bicycle accident attorney can calculate all damages associated with your bicycle accident case, ensuring you receive compensation that reflects the full scope of your losses, including lost wages, medical expenses, and non-economic damages for pain and suffering.
2. Manage the Legal Process
From filing your personal injury claim to negotiating with insurers, an experienced attorney handles every aspect of your bicycle accident claim.
They can gather necessary documents, including:
Police reports
Medical records
Witness statements
to strengthen your case. With their expertise, they can pursue the best outcome for your bicycle accident injuries.
What to Expect from a Bicycle Accident Claim Process
Filing a bicycle accident claim can seem intimidating, especially if you’re recovering from severe injuries. Here’s what you can expect from the process.
1. Settlement vs. Trial
Most bicycle accident cases settle out of court. However, if the insurance company refuses a fair offer, your lawyer may advise taking the case to trial. An experienced Las Vegas bicycle accident lawyer will guide you through the process, whether the case is settled or goes to court.
2. Claiming Different Types of Damages
When you pursue a personal injury lawsuit after a bike accident, your lawyer will help you seek compensation for a range of damages:
Medical Expenses:
This includes immediate costs like hospitalization and physical therapy, as well as future medical bills related to your injuries.
Lost Wages:
If the injuries prevented you from working, you may be able to recover lost income, including wages and bonuses.
Property Damage:
This covers the repair or replacement costs for your damaged bicycle or other personal property.
Pain and Suffering:
Non-economic damages like physical pain and emotional distress fall under this category.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life:
For those facing long-term disabilities, you may be entitled to damages for reduced quality of life.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycle accidents can lead to a range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-changing trauma. These injuries not only cause physical pain but often result in emotional distress and financial burdens. Understanding the types of injuries that can occur can help victims prepare for the road to recovery and the legal options available to them.
1. Head Trauma
Head trauma is one of the most severe types of injuries in bicycle accidents. Even with helmets, cyclists remain vulnerable to concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) when they hit the ground or another object.
A concussion, while sometimes considered “mild,” can still result in headaches, memory loss, and cognitive difficulties. More serious TBIs can cause permanent brain damage, affecting speech, motor skills, and behavior.
Victims of head trauma may need extensive medical care, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, potentially impacting their ability to work or engage in daily activities.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries from bicycle accidents can lead to conditions ranging from herniated discs to complete paralysis. These injuries are typically caused by sudden, forceful impacts on the spine, especially in cases where the cyclist is thrown from the bike.
The effects can be long-lasting, often requiring surgeries, physical therapy, and assistive devices like wheelchairs. The loss of mobility and chronic pain associated with spinal injuries can have a profound impact on a victim’s quality of life, often requiring lifelong care and support.
3. Broken Bones
Broken bones are among the most common injuries in bike accidents, including fractures in the arms, legs, collarbone, and ribs. These injuries often occur when cyclists use their arms to brace themselves during a fall or when they are struck directly by a motor vehicle.
Recovery can be lengthy, involving casts, surgeries, and physical therapy. Fractures, while common, shouldn’t be taken lightly, as they can sometimes lead to complications like nerve damage, chronic pain, or limited mobility.
4. Internal Injuries
Internal injuries, including organ damage and internal bleeding, are particularly dangerous because they may not be immediately apparent after an accident. For example, a hard impact to the abdomen can cause liver or spleen injuries, which can become life-threatening if not treated quickly.
Internal injuries often require emergency surgery and can have long-term health implications. The risk of delayed diagnosis is high, as some symptoms may not appear until hours or even days later, making it critical for bicycle accident victims to seek medical care immediately.
5. Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, such as cuts, bruises, and lacerations, might seem minor, but they can lead to significant pain and discomfort. In some cases, deep cuts or road rash (abrasions caused by sliding across the pavement) can lead to infections and scarring.
Damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments can also result in long-term issues, including chronic pain and stiffness. Soft tissue injuries may require ongoing treatment, like physical therapy or pain management, even if they initially seem manageable.
Each of these injuries can have serious implications for a victim’s health and finances. Bicycle accident injuries often require not only immediate medical care but also follow-up treatments and therapies that can stretch over months or years.
For victims, pursuing fair compensation with the help of an experienced bicycle accident lawyer can make a crucial difference in covering the extensive medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages associated with recovery.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
Knowing what to do immediately after a bicycle accident can make a big difference in your case outcome. Here’s a guide to steps you should take if you’ve been in a bike accident:
1. Seek Medical Attention:
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to seek medical care as some injuries may not show symptoms immediately. Having medical records is also important for your case.
2. Report the Accident:
File a report with the police and obtain a copy of the police report. This documentation will support your personal injury claim.
3. Document the Accident Scene:
Take photos of the accident scene, damages to your bike, and any other vehicles involved. Collect contact information from witnesses as well.
4. Consult a Bicycle Accident Lawyer:
An experienced attorney can help you understand your options and guide you on the best course of action.
Can You Handle a Bicycle Accident Claim Without a Lawyer?
While you could handle your claim without a lawyer, it’s usually not advisable. Insurance companies have legal experts on their side, and they often attempt to minimize payouts. Without an experienced attorney, you may struggle to secure fair compensation, especially if the insurance company refuses to negotiate.
Finding the Right Bicycle Accident Attorney
Choosing the right lawyer for your case is essential. Here’s how to find the best bicycle accident attorney:
Experience with Bicycle Accident Cases: Look for an attorney with a successful track record in bicycle injury lawsuits.
Positive Reputation: Check online reviews or ask for referrals.
Trial Experience: If your case goes to trial, having a lawyer who is comfortable in court can make a big difference.
Clear Communication: A good lawyer will keep you informed and explain the legal process clearly.
Many personal injury law offices offer a free consultation, allowing you to discuss your case and evaluate if the attorney is a good fit.
Understanding the fees and costs associated with hiring a bicycle accident lawyer can make the process less daunting. With an experienced Las Vegas bicycle accident lawyer by your side, you stand a better chance of receiving fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
Contact Bourassa Law Group Today for Your Bicycle Accidents!
Don’t try to handle your case alone—contact a skilled attorney for a free consultation today. They can help you manage the complexities of a bicycle accident claim and work to secure the financial compensation you need to move forward.
Our experienced Las Vegas bicycle accident attorneys understand the complexities of personal injury claims and are dedicated to getting you the fair compensation you deserve. From medical bills to lost wages, Bourassa Law Group handles the details so you can focus on recovery.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s discuss how we can support you through every step of your case. Don’t face this challenge alone—reach out now to start your path toward justice.
1-800-870-8910