The following contribution is from another author.
Most people would think that the safest way to go around and travel is on a bicycle, but they may be wrong. Statistics from Georgia Bikes, a website for all bicycle lovers and enthusiasts in the state, say that there were:
- 6,293 bicycle crashes
- 140 bicycle fatalities
- 12,000 serious injuries
- 2,378 visible injuries
Alpharetta is one city where a lot of these bicycle accidents occurred. An Alpharetta bicycle accident attorney is of great help to victims. They help file an insurance claim and seek fair compensation for the accident that occurred. But still, there are many bicyclists who do not know what to do in case an accident happens.
Here are 6 frequently asked questions victims of bicycle accidents in Alpharetta may have.
1. Do I have to report my bicycle accident to the police in Alpharetta?
Yes! According to the 2022 Georgia Code – 40-6-273, it is a duty to report an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage. It is said that if there is $500 worth of property damage or more, a police report should be done. But first, don’t do the math; you need to make sure that you’re fine before calling the police. Your well-being is more important than property damage.
2. What are the steps for protecting my rights after a bike accident?
- Contact your local law enforcement or the police to report the accident. Make sure that an official report is filed. Police records are valuable when dealing with insurance claims.
- Seek medical attention after a bike accident in order to be treated for injuries. Seeing a doctor and having medical records is also crucial for personal injury claims.
- Taking photos or videos of the scene where the accident happened will help you with your case, the damage to your bike, and the other parties involved. Documentation is very important.
- Avoid making any statements to anyone about the accident. Stick to the facts when talking to the police or the other party involved. Your statements can be used against you if a mistake is made.
- Exchange information with the other party. Collect information from any witnesses as well.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer to guide you through your situation, the law, and your rights.
3. How can personal injury lawyers help injured Alpharetta bicyclists?
Reaching out to a personal injury lawyer will help you assess the situation and provide legal advice on the specific circumstances that follow. They will conduct a thorough investigation of your bicycle accident, collecting evidence from witnesses, reports, as well as CCTV footage. They can analyze all the facts that will determine liability, which include identifying negligent parties like pedestrians, motorists, and even those who are responsible for road maintenance.
Personal injury attorneys will help with your medical documentation and gather and organize all records related to your injuries that will build a strong case. They will be the ones who will be negotiating and settling with the other party’s insurance on behalf of you. Throughout the case, your personal injury lawyer will be your strongest advocate to ensure you are protected and compensated for the accident.
4. Is an out-of-court settlement a good idea?
An out-of-court settlement for a bicycle accident could be a good idea, but not all the time. You and your lawyer must look at the severity of the accident, which will help create a decision on whether to settle or go on trial. There are many factors to consider.
- Extent of injuries
- Insurance coverage
- Liability
- The cost of litigation
- Emotional stress
5. Who will be held responsible for my bicycle accident?
If the accident is caused by another party showing negligence, recklessness, or a violation of the traffic rules, determining liability would be easy. Partnered by witnesses as evidence, the other party would be liable for their actions. It is, as always, advised to consult a legal professional to explore the options in the case. In most cases, the liable party is usually
- A vehicle driver
- A pedestrian
- An agency responsible for the maintenance of roads
6. Will I receive compensation following a bicycle accident in Alpharetta?
The outcome of an investigation following a bicycle accident in Alpharetta, together with all the reports and documents, will determine whether you will be receiving compensation or not. All facts and evidence should be taken into consideration to reach a decision for compensation. If the other party is proven to be liable, every factor will be evaluated by all parties involved, and together with your lawyer, the strength of your case will reach reasonable compensation.
Final Thoughts
Always seek advice from expert personal injury lawyers. Remember, stay on the safe side and know how to act after a bicycle accident. You may say that you practice bicycle safety every time you ride, but be mindful of your surroundings, because what’s around you could be the cause of an accident.
