If you have been injured in a bicycle accident due to the negligence of another party, you may be eligible to recover compensation by filing a personal injury claim. To learn more about this process and how our Santa Clara County bicycle accident attorney can assist you, continue reading and contact our experienced firm. Here are some questions you may have:
What are the most common causes of bicycle accidents in California?
Many factors may play a part in causing a bicycle accident. The most common causes of bicycle accidents are as follows:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Unsafe lane changes
- Driving while fatigued
- Speeding
- Navigating directions while driving
- Disciplining raucous children while driving
- Texting while driving
- Failing to yield
- Smoking or eating while driving
- Not checking blind spots
- Ignoring traffic signs and lights
- Failing to comply with other rules and regulations of the road
What should I do following a bicycle accident?
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it is important to have a plan. Take the following steps while you are still at the scene of your accident to increase your chances of filing a successful future claim:
- Call the police. They will bring an ambulance to the scene to treat any injuries sustained in your accident. The police will also document the accident by conducting a report.
- While you wait for the ambulance to arrive, if you can, take photos of the scene of the accident and any hazards that played a part. Be sure to also photograph any damage to vehicles or property that was involved.
- Collect any witnesses’ contact information. This should include their name, date, and the severity of your injuries.
- As soon as the ambulance arrives, seek medical treatment. Even if you do not immediately feel symptoms of an injury, it is best to be seen by a professional in case injuries arise later.
- Once your treatment is complete, collect all relevant medical documentation.
- Retain the services of an experienced California personal injury attorney.
What is the statute of limitations for bicycle accident claims in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years. This means that you will have to years from the date of your bicycle accident to bring attention to your personal injury claim. The sooner you can take legal action, the better. This is because if you fail to file your personal injury claim within this timeframe, you may be permanently time-barred from suing. To avoid this and to get started with this process as soon as possible, give our firm a call today. We are prepared to take on your case when you are ready.
CONTACT OUR FIRM
When someone is wrongly injured in an accident, they often require financial compensation to heal. That’s where we come in. Contact the Law Offices of Brian J. O’Grady today to learn more about what our firm can do for you.
