Riding a bike can be a great form of exercise, an efficient way to get around a major city, and help the environment compared to other forms of transportation. Unfortunately, there are risks that come with riding a bike. This is particularly true in major cities, such as New Orleans, where additional traffic and lack of focus could cause accidents. If you are involved in an accident with a vehicle while you are riding a bike, hiring an attorney is a good idea. These attorneys will offer a variety of services to help ensure you receive the support that you are entitled to.
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Offer Consultation and Guidance
One of the main reasons that anyone should hire an attorney following an accident of this kind is to receive consultation and guidance. If you have been hit by a car while riding your bike, it can be a stressful situation, and you could be left with a variety of expenses that would not otherwise be covered. Your attorney will review all relevant information including your medical and accident reports, police reports, and witness statements. They can then offer you guidance on how to best move forward to receive the compensation that you are entitled to.
Negotiate Settlement with Relevant Parties
A big part of any lawyer’s job after an accident is to handle negotiations to come up with a fair settlement. Your attorney will identify the correct parties to negotiate with, which will typically include the vehicle’s driver and their insurance company. From there, they will come up with a financial figure that will help to compensate you for your losses. This can include costs to replace your bike, cover your medical bills, and reimburse you for any lost wages. If you are seriously injured, including pain and suffering and other similar expenses, it is similar.
Support During Civil Trial
It is almost always in everyone’s best interests to reach a settlement outside the courtroom. However, there are situations in which the other party will not come to a middle ground, and you may need to pursue a civil trial. In these situations, your attorney will offer a lot of legal support. This will include help prepare your case and presenting it in court, handling deliberations, and going through cross-examination. This can help to ensure your case is presented appropriately.
Appeal Decisions
While many bike accident claims will go smoothly, there are situations when your claim could be denied. This could include having an insurance claim denied or losing in court. In either situation, your attorney can help with the legal appeal process. This will include formally appealing and contesting the decision and pursuing further claims in court, if necessary.
Being involved in an accident with a vehicle when you are on your bicycle can be quite scary. This could lead to damage to your bike and serious injuries. Due to this, you need to ensure that you hire an attorney to receive proper legal support and guidance. A bike accident lawyer can offer various services that will prove to be quite helpful.
Read also: Motorcycle Accident Attorney FAQ