With Florida being such a sunny state, there are many people out riding their bicycles. However, bicycle riders face serious risks and vulnerabilities when vehicles, infrastructure issues, or other hazards lead to crashes. This is where a Broward County bicycle accident lawyer can help; they can provide value to your case.
There are strict deadlines, legal protocols, and extensive evidence requirements involved in receiving potential fair outcomes after bicycle crashes involving motorists, municipalities, or commercial entities. Going through a case like this can be daunting and overwhelming with all the legal jargon and steps to pursue. Thankfully, with a Broward County personal injury lawyer at The Schiller Kessler Group on your side, this can be easier.
When to Consider Suing After a Bike Crash?
Deciding whether to pursue legal action after a bicycle accident can be difficult. An attorney can advise you if you have grounds to file a lawsuit. There are certain situations where it makes sense to consider seeking compensation through the courts.
If another party was clearly at fault due to negligent or reckless behaviors, then you may have a valid claim. Also, if your injuries and losses are significant and long-lasting, suing may be reasonable. Additionally, if the insurance company is not offering a fair settlement, legal action might be necessary.
The timeline for filing a lawsuit is limited, so consulting a lawyer soon after the incident is wise. There are statutes of limitations that can bar claims if too much time elapses. An attorney can file a timely preservation of your rights and can determine if grounds exist to justify suing after a bike crash.
More people choose The Schiller Kessler Group because they know that we’re a cut above other personal injury law firms.
Potential Damages for a Bicycle Accident
When bicyclists are injured in crashes caused by negligent motorists or unsafe road conditions, they may qualify for several types of compensatory damages. Economic damages in bicycle accident claims often include medical bills, lost wages, and loss of future earnings capacity. Damages may also include harm to the bicycle itself or destroyed accessories.
Non-economic damages are also possible to compensate for pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life after the bicycle crash. Punitive damages may be pursued if gross negligence or intentional wrongdoing is involved and allowed under state laws. An experienced attorney can advise if punitive damages may be applicable.
An experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Broward County can seek full and fair compensation on behalf of injured bicyclists and their families. They will strive to build the strongest case possible and demand damages for all tangible and intangible losses suffered. The ultimate settlement or court award amount depends on the specific circumstances and harm inflicted.
No matter what time of day it is, you can contact The Schiller Kessler Group to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
How Fault Is Determined
Establishing fault and legal liability is key to reaching a fair outcome for bicycle accident claims. Police reports, eyewitness statements, video footage, and expert analysis all contribute to determining responsibility. Skilled attorneys thoroughly investigate to build evidence regarding which party or parties caused the crash through negligent actions.
Several factors can demonstrate fault on the part of a motorist, such as distraction or impairment while driving, speeding or aggressive behaviors, violation of traffic laws, or the vulnerable road user law, along with road rage incidents. For the governmental entity accountable for road design, maintenance, and signage, proof is needed for improper bike lanes, poor lighting, lack of signage, unsafe intersections, or dangerous surface conditions.
An experienced attorney has the resources and knowledge to prove fault and prevent victim-blaming tactics. They utilize accident reconstruction specialists as needed while keeping the focus on the liable party’s actions and errors that led to the collision. Securing evidence regarding what occurred before, during, and after the incident is vital.
Potential Serious Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycle accidents can lead to an array of physical traumas depending on crash dynamics, speeds involved, and whether protective gear was worn. Common injuries range from road rash and fractured wrists to brain and spinal cord damage. When collisions with motor vehicles occur, bicyclists are extremely vulnerable to severe, disabling, and catastrophic harm.
Head and neck injuries may include traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, concussions, facial wounds, and dental trauma. Spinal cord damage can cause paralysis, while broken bones may require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation. Psychological problems like anxiety, depression, or PTSD frequently accompany the physical harm as well.
Securing fair and full compensation includes calculating both immediate and future medical needs, along with potential loss of income over time. Compensation is not guaranteed, but a solid case can provide more of a chance. A dedicated lawyer will fight for a potentially favorable outcome that considers the long road of recovery ahead for the injured bicyclist.
The Statute of Limitations
Pursuing fair compensation after a bicycle accident requires acting before the expiration of the statute of limitations. This law sets strict deadlines regarding the window of time crash victims have to take legal action and file a lawsuit against the liable parties. The statute of limitations varies depending on the state and type of claim being made.
In Florida, the statute of limitations for injury claims just changed to two years. Working with an experienced bicycle accident attorney in Broward County at The Schiller Kessler Group ensures meeting all statutes of limitations so that claims remain eligible for the civil justice system. They will handle all aspects of filing within the set legal deadlines. This will be based on when and where the bicycle crash occurred to preserve the opportunity to pursue damages.
Work with a Broward County Bicycle Accident Attorney
Experiencing a bicycle crash because of unsafe infrastructure and preventable hazards may leave you feeling powerless to hold perpetrators accountable. However, you have the right to justice. Our team at The Schiller Kessler Group can evaluate liability in crashes, fully investigate fault while evidence is fresh, scientifically calculate present and future damages, file claims quickly, negate statutes of limitation hassles, and tirelessly pursue potential fair outcomes.
Our law firm has an impeccable record of wins for local cyclists facing physical, emotional, and financial hardships after collisions. We may be able to guide you through complicated legal processes while providing ethical, understanding, and premium representation. Reach out today to start with a free consultation.
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