Riding a bike is fun, earth-friendly, and a good way to stay in shape. Unfortunately, thousands of bicycle accidents happen across the county every year. And Marietta has seen more than its fair share—with devastating consequences for those who are injured. If you or a family member were hurt while bicycling, you have rights, and you may be able to recover a substantial amount of money. Let one of our Marietta bicycle accident lawyers help you.
Our lawyers have over twenty years of experience getting results for cyclists. We understand the laws that require motorists to share the road, and how to build cases around those laws. For decades, we have built a reputation as tough negotiators that force insurance companies to the table—and we want to help you. Put us to work getting you the financial settlement you deserve. Fill out the form to the right or call us at (404) 341-6555 for a FREE consultation.
What kind of injuries will a bicycle accident claim pay for?
You can potentially recover money for any type of injury related to the accident. Some of the most common injuries that we see in bicycle accidents include:
- Head injuries such as concussions and traumatic brain injury
- Broken bones, especially shoulder bones, arm and wrist bones
- Neck and back injuries
- Abrasions, cuts and other skin injuries
In more severe accidents we also see internal organ injuries, especially when a cyclist was hit by a car or truck moving at high speeds. These and other injuries can be life-threatening. Tragically, in some cases, cyclists die because of an accident, and their family must recover damages on their behalf.
As an accident victim, always seek medical treatment for any injuries you have. Even if you don’t feel a lot of pain and you don’t think they’re serious, still go see a doctor. A minor injury left untreated can get worse. And getting official documentation of your injuries from a medical professional will strengthen your case as you seek compensation.
How much money can I get from a bicycle claim in Marietta?
In Georgia, victims of bicycle accidents can recover compensation for all expense incurred as a result of a bicycle accident. The expenses you can recover from a bicycle accident claim include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages (if the accident resulted in you being unable to work)
- The cost of repairing or replacing your bike
- The cost of any prescriptions drugs
- Physical therapy or other rehabilitative therapies
But these are the costs that are covered. You can also recover additional money for any pain and suffering you endured, or other serious losses such as a permanent injury. Generally speaking, the more severe an accident is, the more the victim will be able to recover in damages. Often, pain and suffering will make up at least as much, if not more, in damages than the cost of your medical bills and other losses alone.
Hit by a Car While Biking? Follow These 7 Steps
Knowing what to do after getting in any kind of accident can be tough. Bicycle accidents can happen quickly, and trying to think clearly through all of the disorientation, shock, and possibly pain is difficult. If you’re able to, however, there are steps you can take to protect your rights from the start:
- Call the police: The police can officially document everything and provide you with a police report. This police report will be important evidence when you go to file a claim to seek damages. Car drivers often want to leave without getting the police involved—don’t agree to this. Your rights are on the line.
- Stay at the scene (if you don’t need to go to the hospital): It’s important that you do not leave the scene of a bicycle accident, unless you are being taken for emergency medical treatment. Wait for the police to arrive.
- Exchange information: The first piece of information you should exchange is insurance information, as well as names and contact info. Exchange insurance information even if you don’t see any damage or feel any pain. Once the adrenaline wears off, you may start feeling pain but you won’t be able to make a claim for it.
- Take pictures: Take pictures of the entire accident scene, including the car, your bicycle, the spot where the accident occurred, your injuries and the surrounding area. When you get home, write down everything you remember about the accident.
- See a doctor: Seek medical treatment for any injuries—whether they seem minor or serious. And do not say you’re “fine”! At the time of the accident, adrenaline is pumping through your veins, so you may not feel the full extent of your injuries. An evaluation by a medical professional can make sure injuries do not worsen.
- Call an attorney: Consult with a personal injury attorney to review your case. A good bicycle attorney will negotiate with insurance companies, connect you with the right doctors, and present the best possible case to the court if needed.
These steps aren’t always possible, especially if you’re badly hurt. If the accident was already days ago and you didn’t do everything on this list, it’s okay—but it’s more important than ever to get legal help right away.
Talk to a Marietta Bicycle Accident Lawyer for Free
Accidents of any kind can be jarring and unexpected. They have the ability to turn everything upside down and make it difficult to know how to proceed. Don’t face the process alone. Arm yourself with one of our lawyers, and use our twenty years of experience to get you the results you deserve. Fill out the form to the right or call us at (404) 341-6555 for a FREE consultation today.
