A bicycle accident usually involves more than just the rider. Other vehicles or hazardous road conditions typically play a critical role in causing a bike crash, and when that happens, the bicyclist could be entitled to receive compensation from the responsible party.
If you have suffered injuries in a collision caused by a motorist’s negligence, it could be beneficial to talk to knowledgeable Memphis bicycle accident lawyer David E. Gordon sooner rather than later. State law provides only a limited amount of time to prepare and file a claim. A trustworthy personal injury attorney who is familiar with collisions involving cyclists can review your case and explain your options for recovery.
Who is at Fault in a Bike Accident?
Before an injured cyclist can receive compensation, it is necessary to prove that the negligence or recklessness conduct of another directly caused the accident. Even if the bicyclist was also partly to blame for the collision, the shared responsibility would only reduce the amount the accident victim receives, but it will not prevent the victim from recovering compensation from other liable parties.
A Memphis bicycle accident attorney can investigate to determine the cause of the collision and determine the parties responsible. Although most bike accidents are truly accidental, that does not mean that no one is liable for the harm caused. When an automobile driver or other party fails to exercise reasonable care and their mistake is shown to contribute to the cause of the accident, that party should be held liable for their negligence.
What Damages Could be Available for Recovery in Memphis?
Compensation can be provided if a bicyclist can prove a defendant’s negligence for an accident, and it could cover a range of consequences stemming from the collision. The payments could cover both economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages can include:
- Loss of wages
- Medical bills
- Decreased future earning potential
- Anticipated medical expenses
Non-economic losses such as pain and suffering or emotional anguish can have an even greater adverse impact on a bicyclist’s life. Although these intangible factors do not have a quantifiable value, a Memphis attorney with experience handling bicycle accidents could calculate a reasonable amount to demand based on legal precedent.
Prompt Action Can Make a Difference
It is wise to begin investigating and preserving evidence to prove causation as soon as possible after a bicycle accident. As time passes, the scene of the accident could change, so it is best to take comprehensive photographs right away. Traffic cameras could have caught the incident, but the recording may get erased unless someone acts to preserve it. Witnesses also may be more difficult to locate, and their memories less accurate over time.
A qualified bike crash attorney in Memphis can begin collecting evidence right away. Moreover, a legal advocate can work to ensure the case is ready to file before the one-year statute of limitations expires, to give you the best chance of a successful outcome.
Work with a Dedicated Memphis Bicycle Accident Attorney
It can be hard to focus on physical recovery after a bike accident if you are being bothered by insurance adjusters and investigators asking questions and demanding statements. When you work with an experienced Memphis bicycle accident lawyer, they can answer your questions and guide you through the process of filing a claim, prevent mistakes, and allow you to turn your efforts toward healing from your injuries.
Dedicated legal advocate David E. Gordon can fight to obtain fair compensation that covers your losses and meets your future needs. While a lawsuit cannot restore your health or the time you have lost because of another’s negligence, it can give you some financial relief for you and your family. For a free consultation to learn how we can assist you in your situation, call today.