Port Orchard Bicycle Accident Lawyer Fights for Victims’ Rights
Washington State law firm recovers compensation for injuries
Bicycling is a healthy, economical and environmentally friendly mode of transport. But bicyclists must share the road with motor vehicles. With little protection, riders who are hit by cars or other vehicles can suffer serious or catastrophic injuries. The bicycle accident attorneys GSJones Law Group, P.S. in Port Orchard, Washington represent bicyclists injured by car or truck drivers on Kitsap County roadways. We advocate fiercely to get these victims the amount of compensation they need and deserve.
Common causes of bicycle accidents
One of the leading causes of bicycle accidents is the negligence of motor vehicle drivers. Example are:
- Failing to yield to cyclists
- Opening doors in the path of bicycles
- Passing bikes too closely
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Driving while distracted or impaired
Poor road conditions and the lack of bicycle lanes are also contributors to accidents. And because cyclists lack surrounding safety protections, riders are vulnerable to severe and even catastrophic injuries caused by dangerous drivers and unsafe roadways. When you’ve been hurt in a bicycle accident caused by the actions of another party, we will stand up vigorously for your interests. Our attorneys are adept at obtaining compensation in bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents and motor vehicle accidents.
Types of injuries sustained in bicycle accidents
High-speed collisions can result in catastrophic injuries due to the difference in weight between a car and a bike. Even a low-speed crash can cause serious harm to cyclists. The following are some of the common types of injuries:
- Road rash and lacerations
- Soft tissue damage
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord damage
Injuries can have long-term or even permanent physical, emotional and financial consequences. We will assess how the accident has affected your life and may continue to do so in order determine the accurate value of compensation due.
What to do after a bicycle accident
You should first attend to your own health condition. If you have been thrown to the ground, don’t get up immediately. Try to assess which parts of your body are injured. Then take these actions:
- Call 911 for emergency assistance.
- Give the responding police officer your account of how the accident occurred.
- If you are able, taking photographs and videos of the accident scene.
- Obtain contact and insurance information from the driver of the vehicle.
- Get contact information for eyewitnesses to the accident.
- Obtain treatment at an emergency room or trauma center.
- Notify your insurance company if you have auto or health coverage, but do not give detailed or recorded statements.
- Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
By preserving evidence right away before it is damaged or disappears, you will stand the best chance of getting a positive financial resolution.
Legal rights of bicyclists
When you’ve been injured in a collision with a negligent driver, you are entitled to claim compensation for current and future medical bills, lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, pain and suffering, repairs to your bicycle and damages for related costs. If you were partly or even mostly at fault for the accident, you still may be able to recover partial compensation. Our lawyers will examine all the facts of the accident and develop a strategic case intended to get you maximum payment.
Contact a Kitsap County bicycle accident attorney for a free consultation
When you’ve been hurt in a Washington State bicycle accident, you can rely on the attorneys at GSJones Law Group, P.S. in Port Orchard to assist you in pursuing compensation. Please call 360-876-9221 or contact us online to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our experienced lawyers.
