While you do not have to get a lawyer after a bicycle accident, it’s the best way to protect your rights. Without a lawyer, you could fall victim to the insurance company’s tactics. Below, we’ll answer a common question about when you should get a lawyer for an accident.
There are many things to do after a bicycle accident. You’ll need medical care, bike repairs, and more. However, don’t neglect to get the legal help you need.
John Foy & Associates has over 20 years of experience with bike accident cases. We can help you seek the fullest recovery possible. To get a FREE, no-risk consultation, call us at (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
How Soon do You Need a Lawyer for a Bicycle Accident?
After your accident, it’s best to get a lawyer immediately. Otherwise, the at-fault party or insurance company can take advantage of you. At the very least, we recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss your case.
After your accident, you have legal options. If someone else caused the crash, they are legally responsible for the damages. You can file a personal injury claim for compensation (Georgia Code Section 51-12-4). But insurance claims are rarely easy to handle.
After the accident, the at-fault party’s insurance company will spring into action. Insurers have teams of adjusters and lawyers looking to reduce what they pay. They will immediately start looking for ways to undermine your claim.
A Bicycle Accident Lawyer Levels the Playing Field
Unless you’re a legal professional, you won’t know how to handle the insurance company. And that’s completely understandable — no one should expect you to know legal methods overnight. But having a lawyer on your side makes the process more equal.
Insurance companies will use tactics like:
- Denying your claim right away
- Offering you a lowball settlement
- Downplaying your injuries and damages
- Trying to intimidate you into accepting less
- Getting you to say things that they can use against you
Without knowing your legal rights, you could easily accept a settlement that is way too low. Many injured cyclists do not realize how much their accident costs them. Medical bills, bike repairs, and lost wages are often much higher than they seem at first.
A lawyer can help you make the best decisions from the beginning. The insurance company could contact you within days of the accident. It’s best to get a lawyer immediately to protect your legal rights.
Thankfully, most bicycle accident lawyers offer a free consultation. Plus, many do not charge a fee unless they win you a settlement. You can consult with an attorney right away without risk to you.
Get the strong arm
Why Should You Get a Lawyer as Soon as Possible?
Without a lawyer, it’s too easy for the insurer to take advantage. By talking to a lawyer today, you can protect yourself as much as possible. Your attorney can help you avoid doing or saying something detrimental to your rights.
Anyone has the right to represent themselves after a bicycle accident. The problem is that insurance companies know this. They will offer you a lowball settlement and make it seem like the best deal. Many injured cyclists fall victim to insurance tactics while representing themselves.
An experienced attorney will consider:
- Current and future medical treatment costs
- Non-economic damages like pain and suffering
- How to best negotiate for more
- How to build the most substantial injury claim
Insurance companies know that you are hurting after an accident. They’ll make the first offer seem appealing. However, if you accept a settlement, you won’t be able to pursue more.
Do not accept any money or sign anything from the insurer before speaking to a lawyer. Even if you just schedule a consultation, have an attorney look over your case first.
What Type of Lawyer Should You Get After Your Bicycle Accident?
You will need a personal injury lawyer who specializes in bicycle accident cases. You’ll also want a lawyer with a good track record.
Unfortunately, there are too many settlement mills who take advantage of victims. These law firms focus on flashy advertising. They also settle a lot of cases as quickly as possible. While a fast settlement might seem ideal, it usually means your lawyer is leaving money on the table.
Work with an attorney who is not afraid to fight for your compensation. The lawyer’s goal should be the highest settlement possible for you. Ideally, the lawyer you work with should:
- Have experience in bicycle accident cases
- Be able to provide references from past clients
- Have examples of similar cases to yours that they’ve worked
- Have the time to focus on your case
- Have a strong track record of successful settlements
- Not be afraid to take a case to trial, if necessary
At John Foy & Associates, we have over 20 years of experience. We have helped countless injured cyclists win what they deserve. Plus, we do not collect a fee unless we win you compensation.
To get a FREE consultation today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call.
What Else Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident?
Besides hiring a lawyer, there are some ways you can help protect your rights. After a bicycle accident, you should:
- Report the crash to the police.
- Get any emergency medical treatment you need.
- Get the driver’s contact and insurance information.
- Take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and your bike damage.
- See a doctor as soon as possible after leaving the scene.
- Save all records of your losses.
You should also avoid speaking to the insurance company without a bicycle accident lawyer. Protect your rights by gathering information and being cautious about your actions.
Talk to a Bicycle Accident Lawyer for Free Today
John Foy & Associates has 20-plus years of experience helping injured bicyclists. We do not charge you unless we win your case. There are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs for you.
To get a FREE consultation, call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online today.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
