Although cyclists have the same rights on the road as motor vehicles, drivers continue to cause bicycle accidents when they ignore the right of way for bicycle riders. In such collisions, cyclists often suffer serious injuries since they have minimal protection. Fortunately, Louisiana law allows bicycle accident victims to seek compensation and recover losses associated with the accident.
If you sustain an injury from a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, an experienced bicycle accident attorney at Morris Bart can help you. We can help you through every step of the legal process and ensure your rights are protected. Contact an Alexandria bicycle accident attorney for a free evaluation today.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents that You Can Sue For
Alexandria offers a warmer year-round climate and beautiful scenery, making it ideal for bicycling. But when a bicycle accident occurs, the results could be devastating. Some of the most common injuries a cyclist may suffer include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones or fractures
- Internal organ injuries
- Paralysis
- Nerve damage
- Road rash
- Sprains and torn ligaments, among other soft tissue damage
- Accident amputations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Bruises, abrasions, cuts, and scrapes
- Wrongful death
Even with adequate riding gear, a cyclist may suffer serious damage because bicycles offer little protection in the event of an accident. At Morris Bart, our legal team can help prove the extent of your injuries and help you to recover the maximum settlement.
For a free legal consultation with a Bicycle Accident lawyer serving Alexandria, call 800-537-8185
Proving Driver Negligence in a Bicycle Accident
If a negligent driver caused the bicycle accident, then you are entitled to compensation. However, it is important to keep in mind that insurers want to settle your claim for the lowest amount possible. They may offer you much less than what your claim is worth.
At Morris Bart, we know how insurance companies work and how to ensure you receive a fair settlement. Working with a bicycle accident attorney in Alexandria ensures your case has undergone a thorough investigation to collect proof that holds the other party accountable.
We ensure you have evidence protecting you from liability and establishing who was at fault, resulting in your injuries. These include:
- Photos of the scene
- Accident report
- Eyewitness accounts
- Surveillance video
- Testimony from expert witnesses
- Right-light camera footage
Recoverable Damages in an Alexandria Bicycle Accident
In Louisiana, you can pursue both economic and non-economic damages if you suffer injuries caused by a careless or reckless driver. Some economic and non-economic damages you may receive include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Lost income
- Paralysis
- Disfigurement
- Temporary or permanent disability
- Diminished earnings
- Loss of enjoyment of activities
- Physical and emotional therapy
While Louisiana prevents punitive damages, cases involving drunk drivers may allow you to ask for punitive damages after a collision. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Alexandria can help estimate the total cost of recovery you are entitled to. Schedule a free case evaluation with us to learn more.
Click to contact our Alexandria Personal Injury Attorney today
Comparative Negligence in Bicycle Injury Cases
Unlike other states, Louisiana has a comparative negligence rule where a plaintiff’s compensation is lowered based on the fault they contributed leading to their injuries. For instance, if a cyclist brakes instantly and the driver hits them from behind, the driver must compensate for damage caused. However, the amount awarded is reduced since the biker slowed or stopped consciously, causing the accident.
Working with our Alexandria bicycle accident attorney can help fight comparative negligence allegations, ensuring you get a better chance of recovering the maximum and reasonable amount. If you suspect you were partially at fault, working with an attorney when pursuing compensation is crucial.
The Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accident Claims in Louisiana
According to CC §3492, personal injury lawsuits must be filed within one year from the date the accident happened. Typically, a statute of limitations is the period that a bicycle accident victim has to file a claim seeking compensation for injuries sustained after the collision. Therefore, it is important to consult an Alexandria bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible if you are involved in a bicycle accident.
Failure to file your bicycle accident claim within one year can inhibit you from pursuing compensation, or the law court may dismiss the case. Therefore, initiating the process immediately after the accident is vital, helping you and your attorney plan and prepare for the case.
A Bicycle Accident Attorney in Alexandria Can Do Everything on Your Behalf
If you have suffered an injury from a bicycle accident, an Alexandria personal injury attorney will handle each aspect of your claim while you recover. Our motive is to provide comprehensive legal support to help you navigate the complex legal system and strictest time limit and ensure you get the reward you deserve. Some actions our bicycle accident attorney can do on your behalf include:
- Gather necessary evidence to support your claim
- Establish if your claim is entitled to compensation
- File your claim
- Interview eyewitnesses and bring in experts, such as accident reconstructionists, to ascertain your claim
- Ensure your rights are protected in and out of court
- Seek maximum compensation
- Negotiate with the other party while representing your best interests
- Proceed your matter to trial if negotiations fail
Talk to an Experienced Alexandria Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
Whether your bicycle accident resulted from distracted driving, drunk driving, traffic law violations, or improper passing, our Alexandria bicycle accident attorney at Morris Bart can help you. We know how demanding it is to deal with your recovery while seeking compensation.
Working with our attorney ensures you receive comprehensive legal help. Contact us and schedule a free consultation with our Alexandria bicycle accident attorney today.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
