It is, therefore, the worst experience to get into a bike accident, not to mention if the incident happens in Los Angeles. Congested roads, inattention, and poor bicycle facilities make cycling in such places very dangerous for cyclists as they always risk being hospitalized. Any person involved in a bike accident should be able to protect their legal rights and get compensated for the losses. This legal process is quite complex, so when you come to Crown Law Group, PC, you will be entitled to a free consultation. To better understand how seeking a car accident attorney in Los Angeles may change your bike accident case, they will discuss this issue further in this article.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
The first thing that any bicycle accident victim needs to do after the accident is to learn more about their legal entitlements. People often do not realize that bike accident rules are the same as car accident rules. For example, if a motorist was negligent in causing the accident, you can sue for your injuries, physicians’ fees, and other losses.
A Los Angeles car accident lawyer from Crown Law Group, PC, can help you understand:
- Whether you have a valid case for compensation
- What damages you may be entitled to, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- The timeline for filing a claim under California’s statute of limitations
This initial consultation is vital to laying the groundwork for your case and providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions in the future.
The Importance of Evidence Collection
Bike accident claims often rely heavily on the evidence gathered at the accident scene. However, if you were seriously injured, you may not have been able to collect evidence yourself. An experienced car accident lawyer in Los Angeles from Crown Law Group, PC, will ensure that crucial evidence is obtained, which can include:
- Police reports
- Traffic camera footage
- Witness statements
- Photos of the accident scene, damage to the bicycle, and your injuries
Negligence regarding the at-fault driver is established with solid proof and reliable witness eye-witnessed testimony. For example, a traffic camera can prove if the driver violated the traffic sign by going through a red light or if he/she failed to give way to a cyclist. Hiring a Los Angeles car accident attorney means making sure that all the necessary evidence will be collected and used to bolster a case.
Determining Liability in a Bike Accident
Determining liability in a bike accident is often more complex than it seems. While the motor vehicle driver may appear to be at fault, other factors could contribute to the accident, such as defective bike parts or dangerous road conditions. A skilled car accident attorney in Los Angeles will conduct a thorough investigation to identify all potential sources of liability.
In some cases, multiple parties may share liability for the accident. For instance:
- A driver could be responsible for failing to see or yield to a cyclist.
- A government entity could be liable if poor road maintenance or faulty traffic signals contributed to the crash.
- A bike manufacturer could be held accountable for defective parts that failed during the ride.
By consulting with Crown Law Group, PC, you’ll have an attorney who understands the nuances of liability in bike accident cases and can help you pursue all avenues of compensation.
Navigating California’s Comparative Fault Law
California operates under a “comparative fault” system, meaning that you can still recover damages even if you are partially responsible for your bike accident. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault for the accident (perhaps you weren’t wearing a helmet or followed a risky maneuver), your total compensation could be reduced by 20%.
An experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer can help protect your rights under California’s comparative fault law by minimizing your level of liability. They will work to demonstrate that the majority of the fault lies with the negligent driver or other responsible parties, ensuring that you receive the maximum possible compensation for your injuries.
Calculating Your Damages
After a bike accident, victims often face extensive physical, emotional, and financial burdens. These can include medical bills, lost wages, ongoing rehabilitation costs, and psychological trauma. Without legal assistance, it can be challenging to accurately calculate the total damages you are entitled to. A car accident lawyer in Los Angeles from Crown Law Group, PC will help ensure that all of your damages are considered, including:
- Immediate medical expenses
- Future medical costs for ongoing treatment or surgeries
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity if you are unable to work for a long period
- Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress
By thoroughly evaluating your case, Crown Law Group, PC can ensure you pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Negotiating with insurance companies may well rank as one of the most hairs-raising parts of handling a bike accident case. Insurance adjusters are specially educated to pay out as little as possible, and without a legal advocate, you might agree to far less than you should. By hiring an experienced car accident attorney in Los Angeles, you can avoid the pitfalls people make while dealing with insurance companies.
At Crown Law Group, PC, their attorneys will handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf. They will:
- Review all settlement offers to ensure they are fair and just
- Negotiate aggressively to secure the best possible outcome
- Advise you on when it’s in your best interest to settle versus going to trial
This allows you to focus on your recovery while they take care of the legal complexities of your case.
Preparing for Trial if Necessary
While many bike accident cases are settled outside of court, some cases may require litigation to obtain the compensation you deserve. If your case goes to trial, you’ll want an experienced car accident attorney in Los Angeles from Crown Law Group, PC. Their attorneys are skilled litigators fully prepared to represent your interests in court.
During the trial preparation process, They will:
- Gather additional evidence
- Secure expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals
- Prepare you for depositions and courtroom testimony
Their team will fight vigorously to ensure that justice is served and that you are compensated for the full extent of your injuries and losses.
Conclusion
A bike accident can have life-altering consequences, but you don’t have to face it alone. By consulting with a Los Angeles car accident lawyer at Crown Law Group, PC, you’ll gain valuable insights into your case, ensure that crucial evidence is gathered, and receive expert guidance through every step of the legal process. Whether you’re dealing with an uncooperative insurance company or need to navigate the complexities of California’s comparative fault laws, their experienced attorneys are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
