Many people love riding bicycles around Sacramento. Not only does riding a bike offer exercise, but it also is more environmentally friendly than driving a car to get around. Whether someone is commuting to work, school, or simply out to enjoy the beautiful weather, the potential for an injury when riding a bicycle is greater than if someone were to get in their car.
While getting around Sacramento using a bicycle, if a rider is struck by a car, they may need help seeking compensation for their injuries. Remember, bicycle riders have very little protection from injury when they are put up against a car. A thirty-pound bicycle is no match for a car. A Sacramento bicycle accident lawyer can help victims seek compensation for their injuries.
When a bicycle rider is struck by a vehicle, they will have to file an insurance claim to retrieve compensation for their financial losses. Keep in mind this involves multiple steps and may include:
To prove fault in an accident, one must demonstrate the driver who struck the bicycle operator owed them a duty of care. The breach of the duty of care must also be demonstrated. In addition, the injured party needs to show proof of injury and establish their financial losses. A skilled Sacramento injury lawyer can help a victim establish fault.
Most of us are unaware of what rights we are entitled to when we suffer an injury because of someone else’s negligent conduct. An attorney can help explain the victims’ rights.
An attorney can negotiate a settlement on behalf of a victim. Insurance company adjusters are well-trained. In many cases, they will advise a victim that their first offer is the best one they will get. An attorney can explain why this is seldom the case.
Anyone who suffers an injury through no fault of their own should seek legal advice. This is the best way to protect themselves and ensure they understand their rights and legal options.
When someone is injured in an accident, there are certain types of compensation they may be entitled to seek for their injuries and losses. Every accident is different, and every accident victim’s losses are different. Some typical claims a bicycle operator may have include:
When someone is operating a motor vehicle in Sacramento, they must maintain a specific amount of insurance. According to the California DMV, the minimum for injuries is $15,000 and $5,000 for property damage. Unfortunately, this may be insufficient to cover the damages suffered in a bicycle accident.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common injuries following a bicycle accident are head injuries. A bicycle helmet offers some protection, but head injuries are common. Some of the other injuries victims may face include:
It is no surprise that someone being thrown from a bicycle may suffer broken bones. These injuries can be more complicated than setting a bone and letting it heal. Some victims have to deal with compound fractures which could result in surgery.
We never think about the possible damage road rash can cause for a bicycle rider. Keep in mind, there are several stages of road rash. In addition to being painful, victims may develop infections in the wounds, and it is common for debris to have to be removed from these wounds.
An average car weighs more than 4,000 pounds. When someone travels on a bike, which typically weighs less than 25 pounds, the chance for internal injury can be significant.
Victims can suffer painful injuries that could impact the rest of their lives. Head injuries can mean a Sacramento bicycle accident victim has to live with the results of a traumatic brain injury. Back and neck injuries could result in a victim being in pain for the rest of their lives.
While not every bicycle accident victim will face life-altering injuries, they may still be entitled to collect more than the driver’s insurance company offers. When you contact Kash Legal, we can help hold the responsible driver accountable for their actions.
Jonathan M. Kashani is the founder of Kash Legal Group, specializing in personal injury law with a commitment to providing personalized client services and high-quality legal representation. He holds a Juris Doctorate with honors from the University of West Los Angeles School of Law and is admitted to practice in all state courts of California and the United States District Court for the Central District of California.
Kash Legal is a top personal injury law firm serving victims across California. When someone is injured in a Sacramento bicycle accident, they need someone willing to serve as their advocate. The insurance company will have a team of lawyers on their side, and victims should ensure they have the best possible representation to even the playing field. We have experience dealing with insurance companies and a proven track record of getting results.
If you, or someone you love, suffered an injury in a Sacramento bicycle accident, do not try to represent yourself. Before you consider filing an insurance claim, contact us at (888) 527-4128 or use our contact form to schedule a free consultation.
We will be in touch within 24 hours.
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