Bicycle Accident Attorney St. Louis Mo
Introduction
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 857 bicyclist fatalities in the United States in 2018. In Missouri, there were 16 bicyclist fatalities in the same year. Bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries and fatalities, leaving victims and their families with emotional and financial damages. When a bicycle accident occurs due to the negligence of another party, a bicycle accident attorney can help the victim pursue legal action to seek compensation for their losses.
What Does a Bicycle Accident Attorney Do?
A bicycle accident attorney is a legal professional who represents individuals who have been injured in bicycle accidents. They help their clients navigate the legal process and work to secure maximum compensation for their damages. Some of the tasks a bicycle accident attorney may perform include:
- Investigating the accident to determine liability
- Gathering evidence to support the victim's case
- Negotiating with insurance companies on behalf of the victim
- Filing a lawsuit and representing the victim in court, if necessary
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include:
- Motorists failing to yield to bicyclists
- Motorists driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Motorists distracted by their phones, GPS devices, or other distractions
- Motorists failing to check their blind spots before turning or changing lanes
- Poorly maintained roads or bike lanes
Types of Injuries Resulting from Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor scrapes and bruises to more serious injuries such as:
- Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Bone fractures
- Internal injuries
- Disfigurement or scarring
What Damages Can a Bicycle Accident Victim Recover?
If a bicycle accident victim can prove that another party was negligent and caused their injuries, they may be able to recover damages to compensate them for their losses. Some of the damages a victim may be able to recover include:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills, doctor's visits, and medication costs
- Lost wages or income due to missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
Why Hire a Bicycle Accident Attorney?
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced bicycle accident attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. They can also help you pursue maximum compensation for your damages. Some of the benefits of hiring a bicycle accident attorney include:
- Experience with bicycle accident cases
- Knowledge of the law and legal process
- Negotiating skills to deal with insurance companies
- Access to expert witnesses and other resources
- The ability to take your case to trial, if necessary
How to Choose a Bicycle Accident Attorney
When choosing a bicycle accident attorney, it is important to find a lawyer who has experience handling these types of cases. Some other factors to consider when choosing an attorney include:
- Reputation and track record of success
- Communication skills and availability
- Fees and payment structure
- Location and accessibility
Conclusion
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced bicycle accident attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. They can also help you pursue maximum compensation for your damages.