Accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists can be severely damaging, often leading to serious injuries. If you were hit by a bicycle you may be wondering what you can do and how you can be compensated for your injuries and associated expenses. Contact an experienced San Mateo County, California bicycle accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Allister R. Liao to discuss your situation and obtain skilled representation today.
What Are a Pedestrian’s Rights?
Pedestrians are afforded many rights under traffic laws. These laws generally state that drivers and cyclists must exercise a duty of care to avoid harming others including yielding the right of way to pedestrians, abiding by speed limits, etc. If you were hit by a bicycle it is imperative that you understand and fight for your rights.
What Should I Do After Being Hit By a Bicycle?
If you are hit by a bicyclist the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. While they may not seem as serious as car crashes, bike accidents can yield serious injuries and even fatalities. Call 911 to report the accident and get medically examined as soon as possible.
If possible, collect evidence at the scene of the accident. Exchange contact information with the biker, take photos and videos, note any surveillance cameras nearby, and speak with eyewitnesses. Make sure to give your statement to the responding officer. This information will be beneficial if you decide to pursue legal action against the biker.
How Can I Pursue Legal Action After Being Hit By a Bike?
If you are injured in a bicycle accident it is important to understand that you can pursue legal action if the biker was negligent or liable. If the bicyclist has umbrella insurance or some other type of insurance you may be able to pursue a claim to collect compensation for the damages caused by the collision. However, if the cyclist does not have insurance or if it does not cover the accident, you can seek compensation by filing a lawsuit against them.
If you were injured in a bicycle accident, consider filing a personal injury lawsuit against the cyclist. During a lawsuit, you and your attorney can use evidence to establish the cyclist’s negligence and therefore liability in causing the accident. Present evidence that proves that the biker breached a duty of care and directly caused your injuries and damages, as well as the various ways that the accident has negatively impacted your life. In a personal injury lawsuit, you can collect compensation to cover:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage repairs
- Loss of income
- Pain and suffering
Being involved in a bicycle accident can be a traumatic experience, but pedestrians have many rights that can help protect them and ensure they are fairly compensated. Work with an experienced attorney for skilled representation during your accident case.
