Glenn Mills Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycle knocked down by vehicle with helmet on road

Bicyclists face significant risks when sharing the road with motor vehicles, and negligent drivers can cause devastating accidents. If you’ve been injured in a crash, Kingbird Legal’s dedicated bicycle accident lawyers in Glenn Mills are here to fight for your rights. Contact us at 484-289-4880 for a free consultation, and let us help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Tips for Maximizing Your Bicycle Accident Settlement in Pennsylvania

A bicycle accident can leave you with significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Whether you were struck by a motor vehicle or involved in a solo crash caused by a hazard, the aftermath can be overwhelming. However, if the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. To make sure you receive the full compensation you deserve, there are steps you can take to maximize your bicycle accident settlement.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health should always be your top priority after a bicycle accident. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is essential to seek medical treatment right away. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not present symptoms immediately but can worsen over time.

In addition to your health, visiting a doctor or going to the emergency room provides medical records that are crucial for your claim. The medical reports can serve as evidence of the extent and cause of your injuries, which will be used to calculate the value of your settlement.

  • Why it matters: Delaying medical treatment can make it harder to prove that your injuries were caused by the accident. Additionally, insurance companies often use gaps in medical treatment to downplay the severity of your injuries.

Document the Scene of the Accident

If you’re physically able, documenting the accident scene is one of the best ways to protect your claim. This includes taking photos or videos of your injuries, the location, the vehicles involved, and any other relevant details such as weather conditions, road hazards, or traffic signs. You should also gather the contact information of any witnesses who can provide testimony about the accident.

If the other driver was at fault, it’s especially important to gather information about their vehicle, driver’s license, and insurance details. If there’s a police report, request a copy for your records.

  • Why it matters: The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be. Photos, witness statements, and other documentation help establish liability and clarify the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Avoid Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Representation

After the accident, you will likely receive calls from the at-fault party’s insurance company or your own insurance company’s adjusters. Their goal is to settle the case quickly and for as little as possible. It’s common for them to offer a low settlement early on, which may not reflect the full value of your injuries and damages.

Before speaking to any insurance adjuster, consider consulting with a personal injury lawyer. Your attorney can advise you on how to handle the claims process, how to deal with adjusters, and whether an early settlement offer is fair.

  • Why it matters: Insurance companies are experienced at minimizing payouts. Speaking to an adjuster without legal representation can jeopardize your case. A lawyer can protect your rights and ensure that you’re not taken advantage of.

Keep Track of Your Medical Expenses and Other Losses

As you go through the recovery process, keep detailed records of your medical expenses, including doctor’s visits, physical therapy, prescriptions, and medical equipment. In addition to medical bills, keep track of other expenses related to the accident, such as transportation costs, home modifications, or lost wages due to missed work.

Don’t forget to document your pain and suffering as well. If your injury has impacted your quality of life or caused emotional distress, keep a journal to note how you’re feeling. If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed, document this too.

  • Why it matters: Comprehensive records of your losses, both financial and non-financial, will help you calculate the full value of your settlement. The more documentation you have, the more likely you are to receive a fair settlement.

Don’t Settle Too Quickly

It may be tempting to accept the first offer you receive from an insurance company, especially if you’re feeling pressure to pay medical bills or other expenses. However, the initial offer is often much lower than what you’re actually entitled to. Once you settle, you may be unable to recover additional compensation, even if your injuries worsen over time.

Before agreeing to any settlement, talk to a lawyer who specializes in bicycle accidents. A personal injury attorney will be able to assess your case and determine whether the offer is fair.

  • Why it matters: Insurance companies often try to settle quickly to avoid paying out a large claim. Taking the time to evaluate your options and consult with an attorney can help you avoid settling for less than you deserve.

Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer with Experience in Bicycle Accidents

One of the most important steps you can take to maximize your bicycle accident settlement is hiring a personal injury lawyer with experience handling bicycle accident cases. Bicycle accident claims are different from standard car accident claims because bicycles are considered vulnerable road users. As a result, the law may treat these cases differently.

A skilled lawyer will have experience in dealing with insurance companies, gathering evidence, and negotiating settlements. They can also help determine whether you may have a case for punitive damages, which are designed to punish the responsible party for especially reckless behavior, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Why it matters: Lawyers who specialize in bicycle accidents understand the nuances of these cases and can help you get the compensation you deserve. Their knowledge and experience will give you a better chance of a successful outcome.

Consider Future Medical Costs and Long-Term Impacts

Some bicycle accident injuries, especially serious ones like broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries, can require long-term treatment and rehabilitation. When calculating your settlement, it’s important to account for future medical expenses and the long-term effects your injuries may have on your ability to work and enjoy life.

Your attorney will help you estimate future medical costs based on expert opinions from doctors and medical professionals. This ensures that your settlement reflects not just your current expenses, but also the ongoing costs of recovery.

  • Why it matters: Failing to consider future costs can result in an insufficient settlement. You need to be compensated for the full extent of your injuries, including any future medical treatments or lost earnings.

Don’t Accept Fault if It Wasn’t Your Fault

In some bicycle accidents, the motorist or another party may try to shift blame onto the cyclist. In Pennsylvania, if you’re partially at fault for the accident, your settlement could be reduced, but that doesn’t mean you should accept fault without justification.

If you are ever in doubt about who was at fault, consult with an attorney who can help you gather evidence and prove liability. If you were following the law and taking necessary precautions, there’s a good chance that the other party is responsible for the accident.

  • Why it matters: If the insurance company believes you were partly responsible, it could lower your settlement. An attorney can help you defend your rights and make sure the other party is held accountable.

Glenn Mills Bicycle Accident Attorney

Maximizing your bicycle accident settlement in Pennsylvania requires careful attention to detail, timely action, and a strategic approach. From seeking immediate medical treatment to hiring an experienced attorney, every step you take can impact the outcome of your case. By following these tips and taking proactive steps, you can ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to consult with a personal injury lawyer who can help you navigate the complexities of the claims process. Kingbird Legal’s bicycle accident attorneys in Glenn Mills will fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us at 484-289-4880 for a free consultation and let us help you get back on track.