Hamilton Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Car drivers always need to be safe while driving, but as cities get more and more bike-friendly each year, it’s important for bikers to remain hyper-aware while they’re on the road as well. After all, they have much more at stake.
Being hit by a car while riding a bike can have devastating consequences and result in serious injury. If the worst happens, it’s important to work with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Hamilton. Bicycle accident lawyers can handle your case and get you the compensation you deserve.
Does my car insurance cover me if I get into an accident while riding a bike?
Studies show that most adult cyclists also drive cars. This means that if you’re riding a bike, you’re also likely to have auto insurance. The good news is, because most insurance policies include no-fault benefits or accident benefits, it is possible to make a personal injury claim using your own auto insurance if you’re hit by a motor vehicle.
Is auto insurance enough protection?
In many cases, auto insurance is not enough, and personal injury lawyers like the professionals at DWA Law can help you decide on how to proceed to maximize your compensation. Depending on the circumstances, you may qualify to make a claim against the driver. A DWA lawyer can help you get the proof you need to show the car driver was partially or completely at fault.
Why do I need a bicycle accident lawyer?
Legal matters resulting from bicycle accidents should be handled by an experienced personal injury lawyer. First, they can maximize your potential compensation. But more importantly, they provide you with the peace of mind you need to recuperate and make the best recovery possible.
Why worry about the details when you can have a professional handle them? If you or a loved one has experienced some form of a bike-related motor vehicle accident that resulted in serious injuries, from spinal cord injuries to traumatic brain injuries, leave it to us to protect and defend your rights.
What are the Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
When accidents occur, many drivers claim they didn’t see the cyclist, but a variety of factors lead to bicycle accidents. This includes anything from inattention on the road to the misjudgement of a cyclist’s speed to negligent behaviour.
Common scenarios:
- A motor vehicle turns into the path of the cyclist
- Drivers and passengers open the vehicle doors in the path of an oncoming cyclist
- A car changes lanes in front of a cyclist unexpectedly
- Roads are not maintained and / or have dangerous potholes
- A driver exhibits reckless driving resulting in catastrophic injuries
Building Your Case
When it comes to proving bicycle accidents, there are many avenues Hamilton bike accident lawyers can explore, such as by:
- Gaining access to video footage from commercial and private buildings
- Speaking with witnesses
- Gathering accident information, including data from police reports, road conditions, etc.
While building your case, lawyers will review the details of the law to argue that you were following the correct protocols and procedures or had the right of way.
Tips to Staying Safe on the Roads as a Cyclist
While the Highway Traffic Act was primarily written for motor vehicles, there are many laws that apply to cyclists as well. Be sure that you:
- Comply with all signs, such as stopping at a STOP sign and red light
- Wear a helmet, especially when going on the highway
- Have a horn or bell that functions
- Walk your bicycling beside you when crossing a crosswalk
- Cycle in the right direction on one-way streets
- Stop two meters behind streetcar doors to wait for passengers to embark and disembark
What Can I Gain When Filing a Claim for a Bicycle Accident
If cyclists file their bicycle accident claim on time and it’s approved, they can gain compensation for:
- General damages (e.g., pain and suffering, loss of amenities/joy of life, etc.)
- Past and future loss of income, future earnings
- Household capacity
- Out-of-pocket expenses
To make things easier for you, consider hiring a bicycle accident injury lawyer. They can assist you with investigating your claim, building a strong case, and dealing with insurance companies while you get the support you need for your injuries.
Don’t forget: cyclists can still end up in a bicycle accident, no matter how well they follow the law. That’s why you should always take advantage of the free consultation we offer. We can save you a lot of stress and deal with any issues that can arise when dealing with an insurance company.
Passionate – Dedicated – Professional
When Should You Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer After an Accident?
Always contact a lawyer as soon as possible, usually after you’ve seen a medical professional. The reason for this is that personal injury law has time limits on claim submissions.
Hiring a lawyer means they will know the ins and outs of the law and ensure that your paperwork is submitted on time. Personal injury lawyers will also give you access to the support you need to recover. And don’t forget, we don’t only work for those that are injured while on a bike! Our team is staffed with experienced car accident lawyers and long-term disability lawyers as well.
Contact us today for a free consultation.