Hamburg Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Bicycling is an enjoyable and environmentally friendly way to travel, but cyclists are more vulnerable to accidents and injuries than motorists. After a bicycle accident, there can be severe physical, emotional, and financial challenges.  That happens even when cyclists wear helmets. The experienced Hamburg bicycle accident lawyers at Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys can represent your interests and hold negligent parties accountable after a serious bike crash. You can take certain steps to help your case after the crash and during the legal claims process as well; we work alongside clients to achieve the best possible outcomes.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident?

Taking the right steps after a bicycle accident can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. 

• Prioritize your health first and seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but could worsen without treatment.
• Contact law enforcement to report the accident. Police will create an official accident report that may serve as valuable evidence later. While waiting for the authorities to arrive, try to collect information from the scene. This includes the names, contact information, and insurance details of any involved parties, as well as contact information for witnesses.
• Photograph the scene of the accident, including the positions of vehicles, your bicycle, and any visible injuries or property damage. Also, check for traffic cameras; that footage could serve as valuable evidence. 
• Retain all medical records, receipts, and repair estimates related to the accident. These documents will also be essential in supporting your claim for compensation.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Bicycle Accident?

Our Hamburg bicycle accident lawyers can determine the amount of compensation you might be entitled to after a crash, including:

• Medical expenses, such as hospital bills, physical therapy costs, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost income, which covers wages lost due to time away from work. If your injuries affect your ability to perform your job, you may also pursue damages for diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering damages account for the physical and emotional toll of the accident. This includes factors such as chronic pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Property damage, such as the repair or replacement of your bicycle.

Can I Recover Damages if I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

Even if you share some responsibility for the accident, you may still be able to recover damages under New York's comparative negligence laws. These laws allow individuals to recover compensation as long as they are not entirely at fault. However, the amount of compensation you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault for the bike crash, your compensation will be reduced by that amount. Determining fault can be a complicated process, requiring a thorough investigation and analysis of evidence. Our Hamburg bicycle accident lawyers can work to minimize any potentially assigned fault.

What Should I Avoid Saying to Insurance Companies After a Bicycle Accident?

Insurance companies may use your statements to minimize or deny your claim. Avoid providing recorded statements or signing any documents without consulting a lawyer. When speaking with them, stick to factual information and avoid discussing fault or the extent of your injuries. Also, refrain from making statements such as "I am fine" or "It was partly my fault," as these can be used against you. Insurance adjusters often look for ways to reduce the amount they have to pay, so proceed with caution and consult with our Hamburg legal team before engaging in detailed discussions.

How Are Pain and Suffering Damages Calculated?

Pain and suffering damages are intended to compensate individuals for the non-economic impacts of an accident. Calculating these damages involves evaluating factors such as the severity of the injuries, the level of physical pain endured, and the emotional effects of the accident.

What Happens if the Driver Leaves the Scene of the Accident?

A hit-and-run accident can complicate the process of recovering damages, but there are still options available. Contact law enforcement immediately to report the incident and provide any information you have about the driver or vehicle. Police may be able to locate the driver through traffic cameras or eyewitness accounts.

What Are My Legal Options if a Defective Bicycle Part Caused My Accident?

If your accident was caused by a defective bicycle part, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer of the faulty component. Product liability claims typically require proving that the part was defective, the defect caused the accident, and you sustained injuries as a result. Preserving the defective part and any related documentation, such as purchase receipts or repair records, is essential for building your case. Expert analysis may also be required to demonstrate how the defect contributed to the accident.

How Can a Lawyer Help with My Bicycle Accident Case?

Our Hamburg bicycle accident lawyers can provide invaluable assistance in handling your bicycle accident case. This includes investigating the circumstances of the accident, gathering evidence, and building a strong case for compensation. 

We can also handle negotiations with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on your recovery. If your case proceeds to court, we can advocate on your behalf, presenting evidence and arguments to support your claim. Having legal representation can help you face the legal process more effectively and improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.

Reach Out to the Skilled Hamburg Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys for Trusted Legal Guidance After Your Bike Crash

If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident, professional legal guidance can help you pursue fair compensation. The skilled Hamburg bicycle accident lawyers at Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys are committed to advocating for individuals injured in accidents caused by negligence. For a free initial consultation, call our Hamburg, New York, office at 716-648-3030 or submit our online form. We proudly serve clients in West Seneca, Orchard Park, Lackawanna, Cheektowaga, Erie County, and the rest of the county.