Introduction
Atlanta has become a popular city for cyclists to commute, exercise or even just travel around for leisure. Unfortunately, with the increased number of bicyclists on Atlanta’s busy streets, many accidents have occurred. If you’re a victim of a bicycle accident in Atlanta, it’s important to hire a lawyer as soon as possible to help you navigate through the legal process and get the compensation you deserve.
Why hire a lawyer?
If you’re injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, insurance companies may not offer you a fair settlement or may even deny your claim altogether. This is where an experienced bicycle accident lawyer comes in – they can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and fight for your rights in court if necessary.
How can a lawyer help me?
A lawyer can help you by collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the cause of the accident. They can determine who is at fault and hold them accountable. They can also calculate the full extent of your damages and negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement. If an agreement can’t be reached, they can represent you in court.
What damages can I claim?
You can claim damages for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Medical expenses include hospital bills, doctor fees, rehabilitation costs, and any future medical treatments you may require. Lost wages include the time you had to take off work to recover from your injuries. Property damage includes the repair or replacement of your bicycle and any other damaged property. Pain and suffering refers to the physical and emotional pain you endured as a result of the accident.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Georgia, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. It’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.
What should I look for in a lawyer?
Look for a lawyer who has experience handling bicycle accident cases and has a track record of success. They should also offer a free consultation to discuss your case and should be willing to work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.
Conclusion
If you’re involved in a bicycle accident in Atlanta, don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer. They can help you navigate through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for your rights in court. Remember to seek medical attention immediately after an accident and document any evidence as soon as possible to strengthen your case.
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to hire a bicycle accident lawyer?
Most lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. Their fee is usually a percentage of your settlement or court award.
2. Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, Georgia follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
3. What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?
You may still be able to recover damages if you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage on your own insurance policy.
4. Can I file a claim if the accident was a hit-and-run?
Yes, you can still file a claim if the driver fled the scene of the accident. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your options.
5. What if the police report doesn’t accurately reflect what happened?
If the police report is inaccurate, you can still file a claim and present other evidence to support your case. A lawyer can help you collect evidence and build a strong case.