Thousands of bicycle accidents happen every year across the United States, and Johns Creek, Georgia, is no exception. What should be a fun way to get exercise and get around can turn scary in a split second. Unfortunately, trying to deal with the aftermath of an accident can be even scarier. Mounting medical bills and uncooperative insurance companies can make the road to recovery difficult. But it doesn’t have to be. Take the time to talk to an experienced Johns Creek bicycle accident lawyer.
We can help you. Our lawyers draw on more than twenty years of experience to get results from you. We know exactly what you’re going through—because we’ve dealt with hundreds of cases just like yours and can guide your through every step of the process. We charge bicyclists NOTHING unless we recover money for you, and we start you off with a FREE consultation so you can get answers with no obligation. Let us help. Fill out the form to the right or call us at (404) 341-6555 to get your free consultation today.
What are my rights if I was hit by a car?
We firmly believe that too many vehicle drivers ignore the safety and rights of cyclists, and drive far too aggressively around bikes. Here are your rights:
- You can file an insurance claim with the driver’s insurance. If the driver was at fault, you can recover money just like any other accident victim.
- You may be able to recover money for medical costs, long-term care or treatment, missed work time, damage to your bicycle and more.
- Even if the driver does not stop, or their insurance is not enough for your costs, you may still have a case. We can help you.
What if I hit a pothole or obstacle? Who is liable?
Even the most cautious and experienced bicyclists can hit a pothole or other road obstacle and become injured. Initially, it may seem that getting injured form a pothole or other road obstacle is nobody’s fault, but that’s not always the case. When it comes to determining who is at fault, there are things to keep in mind:
- Where is the pothole? Determining who is liable depends on where the pothole is. If the pothole is on a city street, then the local government agency may be liable. If, however, the pothole is on a major highway, then the Georgia Department of Transportation may be responsible.
- How recent is the pothole? Whether the state or local city government can be held liable or injuries depends on how new the pothole is. If the pothole has existed for a while and has been reported as needing repair, then the state or city may be held liable for failing to fix it. If, however, the pothole is newer and has not been reported yet, then it may be more difficult to hold someone liable.
- How visible is the pothole? Was it marked? If the pothole was easy to see or had cones by it, you might not have a strong claim. But if you were biking safely and still missed it until it was too late, then local or state government may be liable.
All of these apply to other poorly marked hazards, like open sewer grates, as well.
In some cases, a biker doesn’t actually hit a hazard, but swerves to avoid hitting one, becoming injured in the process. If this is the case, you may have a case as well. A good bike accident lawyer will go over your case detail by detail to get you the settlement you deserve.
What kinds of injuries are most common in a bicycle accident?
Bicycle accidents are an unfortunate yet common experience. Bicycle accident injuries can range from minor to extremely severe. The type and severity of an injury depends on several factors, such as whether the bicyclist was hit by a car or rode over a pothole, and if the bicyclist was wearing a helmet. Below are a few common injuries victims of bicycle accidents may experience:
- Fractured clavicle
- Broken Leg
- Hand or wrist fracture
- Brain injury
- Elbow fracture
- Head and neck injuries
- Nerve damage
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it can be used as a good starting point. We always encourage victims to get evaluated by a medical professional, no matter the injury. Injuries that seem minor at the time can become chronic if left untreated.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
If you are hit by an uninsured driver, it can be difficult to know what to do. However, it’s important to know that you still have options available to you. Below are some steps to take if you were hit by an uninsured driver.
- Call the police and get a police report: If you are involved in a bike accident, you should immediately call the police and file a police report. You will need this documentation of the accident if you have to pursue legal action to get the driver to pay. You’ll also need it if you turn to your own insurance (see below).
- Remember that even an uninsured driver is liable if they’re at fault: If their insurance cannot pay for the damages, you may be able to get a court judgement against them. The money could be paid to you over time and taken directly out of their wages if need be.
- Review your car insurance policy: Before filing a claim, be sure to review your car insurance policy. You may have uninsured or underinsured motor vehicle coverage. Insurance companies offer this type of coverage if you are hit by a driver without car insurance or with poor car insurance. It usually covers car repairs, property damage, and medical bills. You can often draw on this policy even if you were on a bicycle, not your car.
Talk to a Johns Creek Accident Lawyer for Free
The weeks after a bicycle accident can be a vulnerable time. Don’t try to wade through the emotional and chaotic aftermath of the accident alone. Let our lawyers give you a FREE consultation and put our decades of experience to work for you. We charge nothing if we don’t get you money. Call us at (404) 341-6555 or fill out the form to the right to schedule your free consultation today.
