I Was Hit By a Car While on a Bicycle—Can I Sue?
A big percentage of bicycle accident injuries are caused by reckless and negligent car drivers. Unfortunately, cyclists are the ones who bear the brunt of such crashes because they have minimal protection compared to car occupants.
This is wrong and you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden of the accident as well, such as medical bills and property damage. You can hold the driver accountable by suing them for these and other damages. Where do you start and what will you need to file a successful claim? Talk to an accident lawyer near you for help.
Bicycle Accidents Caused by Car Drivers
Reckless drivers are a road hazard because not only do they endanger their lives, but also those of their passengers and other road users. Some of the things that can cause a driver to hit a cyclist include:
- Distracted driving
- Intoxicated or impaired drivers
- Speeding
- Drivers who turn without looking
- Failing to yield
- Unsafe lane changes
- Running a stop sign
- And so on.
When you allow a car accident lawyer to help you with the case, they can investigate and even use advanced tools to reconstruct an accident scene just to ensure that you’re fully compensated.
Who Should Pay for My Bicycle Accident Injuries?
One of the most common dilemmas among victims of bicycle accidents caused by a car is who will be financially liable for their losses. The answer to this depends on the unique circumstances of your case or accident.
Such wrecks can cause severe injuries to a cyclist, including life-long illnesses and complications. It is, therefore, crucial to fight for a settlement that considers all these damages.
Workers Comp Insurance
If you were working when the accident happened, such as for a delivery services company, you might qualify for workers compensation, depending on your employment status. This will cover things like medical bills, disability benefits, wages lost when out of work, and costs for ongoing care.
No-Fault Insurance
Another option to pursue compensation is from the at-fault’s driver no-fault auto insurance. New York’s state laws require all drivers to have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, which should be sufficient to pay for your injuries.
If the motorist is uninsured, fled the scene, or PIP insurance doesn’t fully cover your damages, you can further seek compensation from your no-fault insurance or any member of your household who owns a car.
However, none of the above options will compensate for your pain and suffering, among other non-economic damages. For serious injuries, your attorney may be able to pursue compensation for all other non-monetary damages as well.
Get in Touch with an Accident Lawyer
Damages resulting from a bicycle accident, especially medical treatment costs, can run into millions of dollars. When you decide to sue, you should have a car accident lawyer who has years of experience helping victims like you pursue justice.
Schedule a free consultation meeting with a bike accident attorney from Greenstein & Milbauer, LLP, to assess your case and determine the parties you can sue. To reach us, call 1-800-VICTIM2 (842-8462) or fill out the contact form below and someone will contact you.