When a person’s car is hit by another vehicle, it is a straightforward process for the victim to file a claim against the at-fault driver. If they do not hire a car accident lawyer, they may turn over their claim to their insurance company to handle. However, if you’re riding a bicycle and are hit by a car, are you eligible to file a claim? And if so, what is the process and to whom do you submit it? Many bicyclists who are hit by a car, because of the latter’s larger size and weight, sustain catastrophic injuries, if not death. This is why it’s imperative for these victims to enlist the help of a bicycle accident lawyer in order that they can receive the largest possible settlement.
What is a personal injury claim?
A personal injury claim is similar to a damaged property claim but it focuses on the damage done to the individual by another party. The claimant files the demand for compensation directly with the at-fault party, or more commonly, their insurance company. A personal injury claim should include the following:
- A description and proof of how the accident occurred and who was at fault for causing it.
- The damage the claimant sustained in the way of injuries. For example:
o Broken bones
o Head trauma or brain injury
o Ruptured internal organs
o Neck or spinal injury
o Pain and suffering
o Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder
- A dollar value assigned to each item of damage. A bicycle accident lawyer will have the experience and knowledge to be able to assess the damage value for physical as well as non-physical injuries such as depression and anxiety.
- Documentation that proves that the injury was sustained in the accident. This may include the testimony of a medical expert.
Should I hire a bicycle accident lawyer to file my claim?
A bicycle accident lawyer does far more than file the claim. They prepare and document the claim, submit it to the appropriate party, and represent the client during the settlement negotiation. If the client is recovering from serious injuries, completing these necessary steps to the degree that is necessary for a positive outcome may be impossible. For instance, if they are hospitalized or their mobility is restricted, then going back to the accident scene to take photographs is not practical. Having a skilled bicycle accident lawyer taking of everything for them, and making sure that the paperwork and documentation is correct, can be invaluable.
Unless your injury is relatively minor and does not require hospitalization, surgery, and does not affect your ability to earn a living, you may not need to hire a top rated bicycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT. If you are unsure about whether or not you should enlist the help of a bicycle accident lawyer, contact a law firm for a consultation.