Cycling is a more environmentally friendly alternative to driving but also carries greater risks. Much of this danger comes not from the rider’s actions but from the severe harm a motorist can cause with a single reckless or negligent act. If you have been hurt in a bike crash caused by the negligence of a driver, a bicycle manufacturer or mechanic, a government body responsible for maintaining bike paths and lanes, or anyone else, you likely have legal options that a skilled personal injury attorney could help you enforce. By working with a Portage bicycle accident lawyer from the Law Offices of David W. Holub, you will have far better chances of securing fair financial restitution than you would likely ever have trying to sue on your own.
What to Do After Getting Hurt in a Bike Wreck
When a bicycle accident caused by another’s negligence results in serious injuries, the rider’s top priority should be seeking immediate medical care to minimize long-term harm. In less critical situations, gathering or documenting key evidence can be invaluable for a Portage bicycle injury attorney in building a strong case.
Some of these steps are legal requirements, like remaining at the scene until police arrive after a collision with a motor vehicle and summoning emergency medical services for anyone in need of them. Additionally, documenting evidence can be crucial. This includes photographing property damage, traffic patterns, visual obstructions, and injuries throughout the healing process. Collecting contact information from eyewitnesses and individuals with security or dashboard camera footage can also strengthen a case.
Building a Strong Civil Claim for Compensation
Courts do not assume a bicyclist is free of fault simply because they sustained the most severe injuries in an accident. To succeed in a bicycle accident lawsuit, the injured bicyclist must present substantial evidence proving that another party’s specific negligent act directly caused the incident. The burden of proof rests entirely on the bicyclist seeking civil restitution.
With help from a bicycle wreck lawyer in Portage, it will be much easier to construct a comprehensive case and recover for damages like:
- Medical bills
- Lost enjoyment of life
- Physical pain and discomfort
- Emotional and psychological trauma
- Lost work income and/or earning potential
- Bike repair/replacement costs and other personal property damage expenses
We can also ensure your claim is filed within the time limits set by the statute of limitations, which often fall much sooner than many injured people expect.
Talk to a Portage Bicycle Accident Injury Attorney Today
Bicycling injuries can have severe and lasting consequences, particularly in crashes involving negligent motor vehicle operators. Without experienced legal representation, securing fair compensation through a lawsuit or settlement can be challenging.
A skilled and dedicated Portage bicycle accident lawyer can provide the support needed to pursue a favorable outcome. Contact the Law Offices of David W. Holub today to schedule a consultation.