Azusa Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Azusa Bicycle Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Our experienced Azusa bicycle accident lawyers can help you navigate California’s complex personal injury laws so that you recoup everything you deserve.

Bicycling can be dangerous, even in small cities like Azusa. Bicyclists can be subject to the negligence, recklessness, or carelessness of motor vehicle drivers just like anywhere else. Poor roads or weather can also contribute to dangerous conditions. Accidents while bicycling can be terrifying and cause significant bodily injuries.

With years of experience dealing with cases like yours, we understand the intricate and nuanced legal issues victims face. As you heal, we believe you should be able to rest knowing that your knowledgeable bike injury attorneys are advocating tirelessly on your behalf.

Medical expenses, property damage, and emotional damages are a few examples of the inconveniences a victim of a bicycle accident may encounter, all because of someone else’s negligence. Bike injury attorneys perform thorough investigations into the circumstances of your accident. They’ll start with gathering relevant evidence, assess fault, and communicate with insurance companies.

In the event that a settlement is not reached, it is wise to have an Azusa bicycle accident attorney represent you in court.

What Is the Leading Cause of Bicycle Accidents in California?

Automobile collisions with bicycles are the leading cause of bicycle accidents and bicycle fatalities in California. Distracted drivers, speeding drivers, or drivers who fail to yield to bicyclists often cause unfortunately fatal accidents. Bicyclists are extremely vulnerable in collisions because of the stark difference in mass and speed.

What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?

After a bicycle accident, it’s important to follow these very specific steps to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

• Seek Medical Attention: First, medical assistance. You may have sustained injuries even if you can’t see or feel them at the time of the collision.
• Gather Evidence: When it is safe, take photos of the accident scene. Also, be sure to collect any witness statements and/or contact information.
• Avoid Admitting Fault: Do not accept or admit blame at the scene.
• Call 911: Call the police and wait for them to arrive. Be sure to request a copy of the accident report.
• Call An Attorney: An experienced bicycle injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process.

What Type of Compensation Can Injured Bicyclists Seek?

Injured bicyclists may seek compensation for the various accident-related damages. This includes medical expenses for past and future medical bills (i.e., surgery, hospital stays, therapy, medication, or rehabilitation.)

Victims may also be entitled to recover lost wages while recovering from their injuries. If they are unable to work in the future or at the same capacity due to a new long-term disability, compensation may be due as well.

Victims may seek compensation for pain and suffering, known formally as emotional damages. A victim may suffer from PTSD due to the trauma of the accident, so monetary compensation may be awarded as a result.

Lastly, victims may seek compensation for reimbursement of the costs to replace or repair their damaged bike.

Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accidents in California

In California, personal injury claims, including those for bicycle accidents, have a statute of limitations of two years from the day the incident occurred. If you fail to file within this timeframe, you could lose your right to seek compensation for any injuries and damages sustained.

There are exceptions to this general rule, however. If your accident involved a government entity like a city bus driver, then you must file a claim within six months of the incident. If a minor was injured in a bicycle accident, the statute is paused until they reach 18 years old, and they have two years from their 18th birthday to file a claim.

In the event your injuries are not immediately noticeable, the statute may be extended to one year from the date the injury is discovered. It is very important to speak with an experienced bicycle accident attorney about your specific scenario to understand how the statute of limitations applies to you.

FAQs

Q: Who Is Usually at Fault if a Bicycle Is Involved in an Accident?

A: Drivers are usually at fault unless a cyclist disregards traffic signals. When determining fault in bicycle accidents, various factors, including California’s traffic laws and the accident’s circumstances, are considered. The responding police officers investigate the accident scene, gather all evidence, and deliver an accident report to determine fault. Their decision is not final and can be countered by insurance companies.

If a case proceeds to trial, a judge will ultimately determine fault.

Q: What to Do in a Bicycle Accident?

A: After a bicycle accident in Azusa, California, you should follow the following crucial steps for fair compensation:

• Seek immediate medical attention for unseen injuries.
• Gather evidence by taking photos and obtaining witness statements.
• Avoid admitting fault.
• Call the police and request an accident report.
• Contact an experienced bicycle injury attorney to guide you through the legal process. Following the crucial steps can ensure you receive both justice and fair compensation.

Q: How Much Do Bike Accident Lawyers Charge in California?

A: California bicycle accident lawyers have varying fee structures that range from contingency fees to hourly rates or flat fees. Contingency fees refer to payments that amount to a predetermined percentage of the settlement amount. You should contact a California bicycle accident lawyer to discuss your specific case, circumstances, and fee options.

Contact an Azusa Bicycle Accident Lawyer

At Belgum, Fry & Van Allen, we are committed to aggressively pursuing justice for you. With our decades of experience in handling personal injury cases involving bicycle accidents, you can rest assured our legal team is prepared to focus on getting you the results you need to cover your expenses.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bike accident, contact our office to schedule a consultation.