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Raleigh Bicycle Accident Attorney
Experienced Raleigh Bicycle Accident Attorney Serving Raleigh, NC
Why Choose Our Raleigh Bicycle Accident Attorney?
- We have a former insurance adjuster and defense attorney on our team, giving us greater insight into the inner workings of the insurance process.
- We work with the top medical professionals in the state to provide extensive knowledge and the expertise needed to obtain a favorable outcome to your claim.
- We have recovered millions in compensation on behalf of North Carolina clients and offer our services at a much lower fee than the industry standard.
Why You Need a Lawyer
Bicycle accidents are generally not the rider’s fault, but bicyclists typically face an uphill battle and unique challenges when dealing with insurance companies. The at-fault driver’s insurer will try to find ways to avoid paying you, and if they can prove you are even partially to blame, you will be barred from recovering compensation.
If the insurer’s policyholder was one hundred percent at fault, they will try to convince you to settle quickly for a lesser than fair amount. All of this, and more, is why it is in your best interests to hire an attorney. They will determine your case’s value, collect supporting evidence, and prepare a legal strategy to negotiate the settlement you need to fully pay for your injuries and any potential future losses.
Who is Liable for Bike Accidents?
Whichever party was considered negligent or careless in causing a bicycle accident is typically liable for damages. In most circumstances, it is the motorist since they are held to a higher duty of care. However, there are times when both the driver and the bicyclist can be considered responsible. In these cases, it is imperative that an experienced Raleigh bicycle accident attorney review the facts of your crash. North Carolina follows a “contributory negligence” system. This is an extreme and sometimes unfair rule that does not allow you to obtain compensation if you share any of the blame for an accident.
Common Injuries that Result from Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle riders are more likely to suffer devastating or even life-changing injuries in an accident than most others. Injury claims are commonly filed for:
- Abrasions (“road rash”)
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Traumatic brain injury
- Head and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Paralysis
- Wrongful death
These injuries can lead to overwhelming medical expenses, extended time away from work, and the need for long-term care. A Raleigh bike accident attorney will fight for your future by securing the fair amount of compensation your injuries are warranted.
Types of Compensation Available in a Bicycle Accident Claim
After filing a bicycle accident claim, the amount of compensation you can obtain will vary depending on your injury severity and specific losses. Victims can generally be compensated for:
Medical Expenses
Emergency care, surgery, hospitalizations, rehabilitation, in-home care, prescription medications, any other costs for medical care and future treatment. Your attorney may hire a medical expert to explain the extent of your injuries, the time you need to recover, and any permanent repercussions.
Lost Income
Lost wages from being unable to work. Your attorney may gather your pay stubs or tax records to explain how much compensation you were expected to make.
Diminished Earning Capacity
Compensation for the difference between what you can earn now and what you should have earned if you were not injured.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort. In some instances, the physical pain is chronic, or you cannot enjoy the lifestyle to which you were accustomed.
Emotional Distress
Psychological conditions brought on by the accident, such as anxiety, depression, etc. Proof of intensive counseling and lifestyle changes are often required to recover this type of compensation.
Punitive Damages
Rarely awarded, and only in cases where there is evidence of malice, oppression, or fraud.
North Carolina Bicycle Laws
Traffic laws in North Carolina apply to bicycles just as they do to any vehicle on the road. However, bicyclists are required to adhere to additional regulations since they are quiet, slower, and typically less visible than cars or trucks, such as:
- A white light must be attached to the front of a bicycle to illuminate their path, as well as reflectors for after dark.
- Children under the age of 16 must wear helmets.
- Bike lanes must be used when they exist.
- Bicycle riding is prohibited on fully controlled-access highways and limited-access highways.
- Bicycle riders must travel in the direction of traffic.
Motorists have a duty to drive cautiously and observe others on the road, but bicyclists also have the same responsibilities. Failing to follow these and other traffic laws often contributes to accidents. Our Raleigh, NC Car Accident Attorney can help you as well.
How Much Does a Raleigh Bicycle Accident Lawyer Cost?
Reputable bicycle accident lawyers in Raleigh do not charge an upfront fee or make you pay out-of-pocket for any case-related expenses. Your attorney will advance these costs, and their legal fees will be dependent on how much you are awarded in your settlement or verdict. Most Raleigh firms will deduct between 33.33 to 40 percent of your recovery, plus court costs. This arrangement, or what is known as a contingency fee agreement, makes it far easier for injured bicycle accident victims to afford representation. If you do not receive any compensation, your attorney does not either, and you will owe nothing.
Speak to a Raleigh Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
At Nagle & Associates, P.A., our Raleigh personal injury lawyers only charge 25 percent of your settlement and a third if your case goes to trial. Our team will work tirelessly on your behalf to recover the compensation you need and deserve. Call our office at (919) 433-0035 or contact us online for a free evaluation of your case.