Glendale Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycle Accident Attorney in Glendale, CA

Bicyclists throughout Glendale depend heavily on motorists driving carefully near and around them. They also rely on pedestrians to be careful whenever they cross bicycle paths. The high number of bicycle accidents in the area each year shows that not everyone is as attentive as they need to be.

If you were recently involved in a bicycle accident that wasn’t your fault, then Wax & Wax, A Law Corporation wants to hear from you. We have a strong reputation in the region for being able to take on the toughest personal injury cases and successfully pursue compensation. Thanks to our contingency fee policy, you can file a claim at virtually no financial risk to you. We don’t get paid attorney fees unless we win.

Our commitment to each client goes beyond just courtroom advocacy. At Wax & Wax, A Law Corporation, we believe in educating our clients about the entire legal process, ensuring you feel empowered and informed at every step. We provide personalized attention to detail, reviewing every aspect of your incident meticulously to craft strategies that best serve your needs.

Explore Our Legal Services:

• Why a Bike Accident Lawyer is Essential
• Types of Damages You Can Recover
• Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
• Steps to Take Following a Bicycle Accident
• Legal Rights Without a Helmet
• Get a Free Case Evaluation Now

Do You Need A Lawyer For A Bicycle Accident Case?

Hiring a Glendale bicycle accident lawyer at the beginning of your claim is a strong starting point, even though you technically don’t need to have a professional counselor represent you. Even a bicycle accident case that can seem straightforward can become rife with legal complications. If you don’t understand California’s liability laws and courtroom procedures, then you could be putting yourself at a significant disadvantage.

Any insurance company working on the opposite side of the claim will be excited to see that you aren’t represented, too. Insurance adjusters are hired to save insurance companies money by finding ways to defeat, deny, or depreciate the value of claims filed against their policies. When you aren’t represented by a professional attorney, you could give them ample opportunities to use subtle tactics to manipulate your case until its value drops.

What Damages Can You Claim in a Bicycle Accident?

A bicycle accident claim can help you find peace of mind by holding the driver who hit you accountable for their mistake. Of course, it is often more important to be financially compensated for what they did. When we are working on your case, we will look far and wide for insurance policies to file against, which can help increase the chances of you receiving full compensation for your injuries. We also need to know how many damages you can claim based on what you have incurred or endured due to the accident.

Damages in your bicycle accident claim could include:

• Medical bills: Whether you need to go to the hospital once or require an extended stay, all of your medical bills and treatment costs should be covered fully by the liable party’s insurance provider.
• Lost wages: When you miss work due to your injuries, it will hit your finances, which are probably also low because of your medical bills. You can demand your missing wages and lowered income capacity in your claim.
• Property repair: The cost to replace or repair your bicycle and any other property damaged in the crash should be provided by the liable party. Property damages are sometimes handled in a separate claim than bodily injury-related damages, but we can help you with that claim, too.
• Pain and suffering: You can be financially compensated for your non-economic damages, like your pain, suffering, and trauma. Calculating those damages can be difficult because there is no bill or receipt that reports them.
• Permanent disability: If your injuries are severe enough to cause a permanent disability, then you can be further compensated for the hardships you are likely to endure in your life because of them, like losing your freedom of mobility or independence.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Glendale

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that in 2019 there were 846 cyclists killed in traffic crashes. Most of these fatal accidents occurred between the hours of 6pm and 9pm. Cycling accidents are most common in urban areas compared to rural areas. Both cyclists and motorists can contribute to causing bicycle accidents by doing any of the following:

• Driving/biking while intoxicated
• Driving/biking while distracted
• Failing to obey the rules of the road
• Failing to properly share the road

Immediate Actions After a Bicycle Collision

If you are hit by a car while riding your bike, here’s what you should do to ensure that your bicycle accident claim starts off on the right foot:

1. Do not leave the scene of the accident; stay until the police arrive and take your statement
2. Do not accept cash or any offer of compensation at the scene of the accident
3. Do go to the doctor immediately after the incident; do not assume you aren’t injured
4. Do not give the insurance company a recorded statement and do not admit fault
5. Do keep your damaged bicycle and any other damaged property as evidence
6. Do take photos of your damaged property and your injuries
7. Do speak to a personal injury lawyer immediately about your claim

Acting swiftly after a bicycle collision can have a significant impact on the outcome of your legal proceedings. By gathering evidence and maintaining a record of events, you reinforce your position against counterclaims or diminished liability. Keeping a daily log of your symptoms and any emotional distress can also substantiate your demand for full compensation.

Can You Sue If You Didn’t Have a Helmet?

Bicyclists in California can decide to wear a helmet or not when riding. Although, wearing a bicycle helmet is something you should do whenever you ride on public roads.

The Two Benefits of Bicycle Helmet Use Are:

• It helps prevent a brain and head injury if you get into a bicycle accident.
• It helps keep your liability low for your own injuries.

Liability is how much you are at fault for your injuries and damages. If you didn’t have a helmet on when you were riding your bicycle and a driver hit you, then you can still sue them, but your chances of getting a complete recovery will probably go down.

Discuss Your Options with Our Bicycle Accident Attorneys in Glendale

Starting a bicycle accident claim doesn’t need to be difficult. Dial (818) 247-1001 to connect with our Glendale bicycle accident attorneys. We can help you understand and act upon your rights as an injured bicyclist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents in Glendale

How Does Comparative Negligence Affect My Claim in Glendale?

California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault in an accident. For instance, if you are found 20% at fault, your compensation is reduced by that amount. Understanding this can critically affect your legal approach, so having a knowledgeable attorney from Wax & Wax, A Law Corporation can help navigate this complexity and aim for maximum compensation.

Are There Time Limits for Filing a Claim?

In California, you typically have two years from the date of the bicycle accident to file a personal injury claim. Known as the statute of limitations, missing this deadline could forfeit your right to pursue compensation. It’s crucial to act promptly after an accident and consult with our legal team to ensure that all deadlines are met and paperwork is efficiently handled.

What Compensation Can I Expect for a Bicycle Accident in Glendale?

Compensation for a bicycle accident could cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damages. The total award depends on factors such as the severity of injuries and the degree of negligence involved. Our lawyers meticulously evaluate each element of your case to secure the best possible outcome, advocating vigorously to uphold your rights and interests.