The most recent data shows that nearly 1,000 cyclists were killed in traffic accidents in 2018. Thousands more are injured each year by inattentive or aggressive drivers.
The injuries arising from a bicycle accident can be severe, both in terms of their physical repercussions and their financial implications. If you've been involved in an accident that wasn't your fault, you'll need legal representation.
Our practice has the experience and skill to deliver this to you. Attorneys Polito and Harrington are both highly regarded in Connecticut, and have ample experience of the law in this area.
Read on to learn more about what we can do for you after a bicycle accident.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
Cyclists are the most vulnerable road users. Unlike pedestrians, bicycles must share the road with cars. However, unlike drivers, even the slightest impact can cause serious harm to a cyclist.
Therefore, it is imperative that we ensure the safety of cyclists on the road. One of the best ways to do this is to secure justice for them when they are injured by a careless driver.
Unfortunately, this happens all too often.
Sadly, there are over 700 cyclist deaths nationwide each year. Cyclists account for over 2% of road fatalities, despite making up only 1% of all road journeys.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
If you collide with a car while riding a bicycle, you're at an obvious disadvantage. Even if there is no significant impact between your bicycle and the offending vehicle, you can suffer serious injuries from a fall alone.
The following are some of the most common injuries that arise from bicycle accidents:
- Head trauma
- Broken bones
- Tendon and ligament damage
- Burns and abrasions to the skin
All of these issues require medical attention, which will cost you money if you don't secure a settlement.
We Make Sure You Get Proper Medical Care
When you think of the work carried out by a lawyer, you think of courtroom debate and the preparation of files. However, at Polito & Harrington, we go further than that.
Because of the hustle and bustle of hospitals, less obvious injuries can sometimes go unnoticed. If you've suffered an injury, we'll make sure you get the appropriate medical care and attention.
Common Legal Issues Arising in Bicycle Accident Cases
Even the simplest cases can throw up challenges. These are some of the most common things we deal with in bicycles accident cases.
Causation
The legal doctrine of causation is relevant in almost all personal injury cases. Unless you can prove that the unlawful acts of the other party were the reason for your injury, you won't be able to claim compensation from them.
This can be tricky in bicycle accident cases. Even if a motorist was in the wrong, this can be difficult to prove unless there were cameras or neutral witnesses present.
Our team will look at every angle to unearth the real facts of the case. If the motorist that injured you is trying to misrepresent the part they played in the incident, we will expose the truth.
Insurance Coverage
In any case involving a vehicle, one of the foremost considerations is insurance. If the motorist that hits you is uninsured, securing compensation for your injuries can be far more difficult.
When our clients find themselves in this situation, we do our utmost to find alternative insurance coverage. You might be able to secure compensation from your health insurance policy, or from a policy held by a family member of the motorist.
Our expertise in this area allows us to navigate these issues with ease, securing peace of mind for you as quickly as possible.
Questions to Ask Your Bicycle Accident Attorney
After you've been involved in an accident, you are sure to have a number of questions about the coming process. The following are the most common client queries we deal with in these situations.
Will I Have to Go to Court?
Not every personal injury case goes to court. If the details of your case are clear-cut, an out-of-court settlement is likely.
This saves you considerable hassle and expense. For this reason, we strive to keep clients out of court wherever possible.
However, if negotiations prove unproductive, we will not hesitate to pursue the matter in front of a judge.
How Much Compensation Will I Be Entitled To?
The compensation you get will be dictated largely by the extent of your injuries.
The dollar amount you end up with will arise from your medical bills, lost earnings from time spent out of work, and a certain award based on the pain and suffering you endure.
How Do I Deal With the Insurance Company?
Insurance companies try to pay out as little as they can on claims. Their business model depends on it.
We have ample experience in dealing with difficult insurance agents. We know the tactics they use and how to counter them.
If you employ us, you won't have to worry about an insurance company unfairly lessening the value of your claim.
What to Look for in a Bicycle Accident Attorney
If you've decided to hire an attorney, you've made an important first step. However, it's important to realize that not every bicycle accident attorney is the same.
To get the right representation, you need to look for a practitioner with years of experience in dealing with auto accidents, as well as incidents relating to bicycles specifically.
At Polito & Harrington, that's exactly what we can offer you.
Getting the Help You Need After a Bicycle Accident
A bicycle accident can be a traumatic experience. After enduring the shock and pain of the accident itself, you may not be inclined to think about legal representation right away.
However, to protect your interests, you need capable representation on your side. At Polito & Harrington, that's exactly what you'll get.
If you've suffered an injury in a bicycle accident, or in any other kind of incident, call 1.860.447.3300 or contact us online. We'll book you in for a free consultation with one of our CT or RI lawyers to discuss your best course of action going forward