Seattle is known for its bike-friendly culture, but accidents still happen. If you’ve been injured in one, a Seattle personal injury lawyer can help you pursue damages.
A bike accident can result in costly property damage and long-lasting injuries. When they occur, those at fault deserve to be held responsible.
The attorneys at NextLaw have over 100 years of combined experience. Dan Gerl, our lead attorney, has represented thousands of clients in Washington State. If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, a Seattle bicycle accident lawyer can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Hire Our Seattle Bicycle Accident Attorneys?
Bicycle accident cases can be complex. If you’ve been involved in one, bicycle accident lawyers in Seattle can:
- Investigate the accident: Attorneys can gather evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports to build a strong case.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurers often try to minimize payouts. Lawyers can help counter their tactics and fight for a fair settlement.
- File legal paperwork: Attorneys can handle all deadlines and documentation, ensuring your claim is submitted correctly and on time.
- Represent you in court: If your case goes to trial, a lawyer can argue on your behalf and present evidence to support your claim.
For a free legal consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer serving Seattle, call (253) 238-2558
How Much Compensation Can I Get for a Cycling Accident?
Bicycle accident settlements can range from a few thousand dollars to upwards of $1 million. The value of your claim will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, their impact on your life, and the extent of your financial losses. In general, the more serious the injuries, the higher the potential compensation.
Bicycle accident attorneys in Seattle can estimate the value of your claim and help you pursue the maximum possible payout.
Seattle Bicycle Accident Lawyer Near Me
Call: (253) 238-2558Types of Damages You Can Recover
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be eligible to recover damages for a wide range of losses, including:
- Medical expenses: You can recover the cost of hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and any future medical treatment related to your injuries.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim the income you’ve lost during your recovery period.
- Loss of earning capacity: If you suffer a long-term or permanent disability, you can recover compensation for your reduced ability to earn a living.
- Pain and suffering: You can receive damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage: You can seek reimbursement for damage to your bicycle and other personal property.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries limit your ability to engage in activities you once enjoyed, you can be compensated.
- Punitive damages: In cases of egregious negligence or recklessness, you may be able to recover additional damages meant to punish the at-fault party.
Seattle bicycle accident attorneys can help calculate your damages and ensure you’re fairly compensated.
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How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Claim in Washington?
According to Washington State Rev. Code § 4.16.080(2), the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the incident. If you don’t file your claim within that window, you’ll risk losing your right to seek compensation.
Seattle personal injury attorneys can help you file on time.
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Tips for Dealing With Insurance Companies
After a bicycle accident, you’ll likely receive a call from an insurance adjuster representing the at-fault party. While they may seem helpful, keep in mind that their goal is to save the company money, not provide you with fair compensation.
Here are a few tips for handling communications with insurers:
- Do not admit fault: Even a casual apology can be used against you.
- Avoid giving recorded statements: You are not obligated to provide one, and it could be used to discredit your claim.
- Don’t accept the first offer: Initial settlements are often lower than what your claim is truly worth.
- Speak to a lawyer first: Let your attorney handle all communications with insurance adjusters so you can avoid costly mistakes.
Who is At Fault in a Bicycle Accident?
Liability in bicycle accidents can be complicated. While drivers are often at fault, cyclists, pedestrians, and even city agencies responsible for road maintenance can share liability. Parties who can be held liable for a bike accident include:
- Motorists: A driver can be held responsible for actions like distracted driving, speeding, or failing to yield to cyclists.
- Cyclists: In some cases, a cyclist may contribute to the accident by ignoring traffic signals or riding recklessly.
- Government entities: Poor road design, unmarked hazards, or lack of signage can make the city or county liable.
- Product manufacturers: If a defective bike part caused the accident, the manufacturer may be held responsible.
Washington enforces a pure comparative negligence rule, which means that even if you’re partially at fault for a bicycle accident, you can still recover compensation. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Seattle roads can be dangerous for cyclists, especially in areas with high traffic or poor infrastructure. Common causes of bicycle accidents include:
- Distracted or inattentive drivers
- Dooring accidents (when a parked car’s door opens into a cyclist’s path)
- Unsafe lane changes or turns by vehicles
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Poor visibility due to weather or lighting
- Defective bicycles or components
- Hazardous road conditions like potholes or debris
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident:
- Call 911: Report the accident and, if necessary, request medical assistance.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the scene, your bike, your injuries, and any vehicles involved.
- Collect information: Obtain contact and insurance details from all parties involved, as well as contact information from witnesses.
- Get medical treatment: Even if you feel fine, visit a doctor to undergo an evaluation and document your condition.
- Avoid admitting fault: Do not discuss fault with anyone at the scene or any insurance adjusters who call you.
- Contact a lawyer: Contact a Seattle bicycle accident attorney to discuss your case.
Call Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Seattle
A bicycle accident can leave you with serious injuries and costly medical bills. If you’ve been on the wrong end of one, Seattle bicycle accident lawyers from NextLaw can handle the legal process so you can focus on your recovery.
Injured in a bicycle accident? Call Dan Next for a free consultation.
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form