Bicycle Accident Lawyer Washington, DC

Bicycle Accident Lawyer Washington, DC

If you were riding your bike along the road and a car hit you, it is imperative that you know you have rights and that a bicycle accident lawyer in Washington, DC from the The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. can help you. In this situation, both parties might say that the accident was not their fault, but remember that you are under no obligation to apologize for the accident or admit fault in any way. After your accident, your bike may be unusable and you may be suffering from severe physical injuries. 

To help you through this legal matter, contact a bicycle accident attorney Washington, DC trusts today. We have been in this business for many years working in the Washington, DC area and work hard to ensure our clients get the care they deserve and receive compensation for the injuries they sustain. If you have recently been involved in an automobile-bicycle accident and would like to discuss your situation with an attorney, call a member of our team today.

What Kind of Compensation Can I File for in a Bicycle Accident? 

There are many different damages people often seek in bicycle accidents, but it depends on what exactly happened to determine what you may be eligible for in your own case. Some of the most common damages bicycle accident lawyers file for include: 

• Costs for medical treatment. This includes the initial visit to the hospital, follow up treatments, physical therapy costs, and the bills for prescription and over the counter medications. It could also include alternative treatments like chiropractic care or pain management treatments. 
• Compensation for destroyed or damaged property. This could be the bicycle itself, as well as any other property that the cyclist had on their person at the time. 
• Damages for pain and suffering that the accident victim had to go through because of the accident. Bicycle accidents are often incredibly traumatic. So much so that sometimes people never want to get on a bike again. You deserve to be compensated for your anxiety and emotional trauma from this accident. 
• Lost wages due to missed work. You should not lose out because you are unable to work due to the accident. Whether you are never able to go back to work because you cannot do your job due to the injuries sustained, or you miss a certain amount of time because you cannot perform your duties, you deserve to be compensated for this. A good bicycle accident lawyer from The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. can look at your job and see how much we should file for in your case. 

There are other damages that you may be entitled to after being involved in a bicycle accident. This is why you need to hire an experienced lawyer to handle your case. A personal injury lawyer who specializes in bicycle accidents will know how much compensation to seek in a case and look at things from every angle to determine what you deserve. This can make a huge difference in how much you ultimately get in your case. This is one of many reasons it is crucial to have a lawyer on your side when you get into an accident. 

What Injuries Are Possible from a Bike Accident?

Numerous different types of injuries could occur from a bicycle accident. These injuries range from mild to severe and vary in their possible long-term effects. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, then it is critical to first get checked out by a doctor. A doctor can diagnose any serious or mild injuries and recommend and administer a treatment plan for getting back to normal. Some of the different types of injuries that could occur from a bicycle accident are:

• Brain Injuries – Mild to severe forms of brain injuries could reveal themselves soon after the accident or over time.
• Broken Bones – Broken arms, legs, feet, etc are all possible.
• Lacerations – Common injury type in a bicycle accident resulting in cuts.
• Bruises – Bruises are also common in these types of accidents and vary in size depending upon impact.

Lacerations, cuts, and bruises are common injuries from bike accidents. Brain injuries are rarer, but have and can occur. Brain injuries are something to take quite seriously as damage to the brain may not reveal itself straight away. The effects of a brain injury may reveal themselves over time in different ways, which is why seeking advice and care from a doctor following an accident is crucial to understanding what type of injuries you may have. 

A bicycle accident lawyer from The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C can help you out if you have been injured in a bicycle accident due to the fault of another person’s error in judgment or negligence. Contact us today for guidance.  

What to Do After the Accident Occurs

Immediately following the accident, you may feel the need to inspect your bicycle for damage or even argue with the driver who hit you with his car. However, there are a few things you should always remember to do after your accident and know that blaming the driver at the accident scene does not benefit anyone. Instead, if you are physically up to it, the bicycle accident lawyer recommends you go through a mental checklist.

• Always check yourself for injuries. If you are awake and aware after an accident, the first thing you should do is check your physical condition. While you will likely experience some bruising after the accident, check to see if anything feels broken or fractured. Did your helmet come off during the accident? Look for signs of blood and check to see if you can find any holes in your clothing to see if something pierced your skin.
• Once you have checked your body for damage, get into a safe area immediately. Not only is it dangerous for you to be in the street with other moving vehicles, but a car could also hit you again or you could cause another accident. Pick up your bike and move to a shoulder or a sidewalk. If not, a police officer could even ticket you for obstructing traffic.
• Assess the damage done to your bicycle. While you can always get another bike, it is currently your ride to get home. If it is unusable, call a friend or a ride-sharing service to help you get home or to your destination.
• Call 9-1-1. Having a police officer on the scene can be valuable. They can write up a police report and document the facts of the scene.
• Finally, exchange your contact information and insurance information with the driver of the car. Having an officer at this point can also be helpful to ensure that your conversation is cordial.

Bike Accident Law FAQ

Bicycling is an excellent method of exercise and an environmentally-friendly form of transportation. However, whether you’re a serious or casual cyclist, you’re at risk for accidents any time you hop on your bike. Many modern roads simply aren’t constructed with cyclists in mind, drivers do not always pay attention to what they are doing and tragedies can occur as a result. 

When accidents happen, it is important to consult with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer as soon as you possibly can. An accident victim is only granted so much time to file a legal claim and evidence can become compromised over time. The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. is here to help you evaluate your legal options so that you can make informed decisions about your situation in the wake of a bicycle accident.

How common are cyclist accidents?

Over 700 bicyclists were killed as a result of motor vehicle crashes in 2014 alone. In that same year, cyclists sustained over 50,000 injuries as a result of motor vehicle crashes. It is only partially because cycling crashes tend to be serious in nature that it is important for accident victims to speak with a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as they can after a collision has occurred. Pursuing legal action against those who are responsible can help to ensure that victims receive the care they require if they have been injured.

If there are so many cyclist accidents, why don’t I hear more about them?

The unfortunate truth is that as little as 10 percent of all cyclist accidents actually get reported to police. The majority of cyclists pick themselves up and carry on. Please do not simply “keep calm and carry on” if you have been involved in an accident. You may have injuries that will only manifest days or weeks later. Please schedule a consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer before deciding that you do not want to report your accident to authorities.

Can I fix my bike after I’ve been hit by a car?

As tempting as it might be to take your bike straight to the shop to have it repaired after an accident, this is an ill-advised move. Preserving evidence is paramount after your accident. This evidence can be used later if you file a personal injury lawsuit. It can also help police detail more accurately what happened. A bicycle accident lawyer can help you to preserve evidence before your bike is repaired.

Does it matter if I report my injuries to the police?

Yes. Just as you should always accept at-the-scene medical treatment, you should report all of your injuries, no matter how small. These small injuries could develop into more serious issues as time goes on. In addition, it’s crucial to seek follow-up medical treatment after your accident.

How seriously should I take a cyclist accident case?

If you’ve been hit by a car while cycling, you should take your case just as seriously as you would any significant car accident. If a driver hits you and does not stop afterward, they may be charged with a felony hit and run, just as they could be in any similar situation involving another vehicle.

What Is My Bike Accident Case Worth?

Bike riding is very popular in the Washington DC area. Many people are choosing this method of transportation over public transport or a private vehicle. Due to the heavy congestion, and other dangers, bike accidents are on the rise in DC. When a collision happens, the injuries sustained by the cyclist are often significant. Treatment will almost certainly be needed, and depending on the severity of the injuries, could be required for several months or years. Sadly, some people will lose their lives. 

During the recovery process, the injured cyclist might need to go to multiple follow up appointments, therapy, and rehabilitation. Modifications to the home or a vehicle may be necessary. Along with medical care, the victim might be unable to work. Their relationships may suffer. Life could very well be changed forever. Losses like these, as well as others, can be devastating. 

While you are trying to cope with these issues, the insurance company might be encouraging you to accept a settlement offer. Usually, this offer will be very low. It might not even begin to cover your losses. As legal professionals, we would strongly encourage you to avoid speaking with the adjuster. If you do talk to them, politely decline their offer and let them know your lawyer will be in touch. 

Many people who are offered a settlement start to worry about the value of their case. Afterall, when an adjuster offers a few thousand dollars, and nothing more, you might wonder if your claim isn’t worth what you had thought. Please know that adjusters can say practically anything to get you to settle. Don’t worry too much about what is being said. Call a Washington, DC bicycle accident lawyer. 

The Value of Your Claim

One of the most common questions we are asked is about the value of a claim. No two cases are exactly alike. A settlement or verdict is based on the facts and circumstances of the case. You will need to set up a consultation with us to determine what we believe your case could be worth and what damages you should file for. 

Average Numbers or Values for a Bike Accident Case

The following are general numbers that might give you more context into what your claim might be worth. Only a bicycle accident lawyer can really estimate your own cases’ value. 

• An average bike accident claim is usually worth between $30,000 and $100,000
• About 75% of all cases will recover less than $100,000
• Nearly 10% of claims will recover over $1 million
• The remaining 15% are valued between $100,000 and $999,000

The more serious the injuries are, the more likely you will be able to recover a larger amount. If you are interested in talking with a bicycle accident lawyer about your case, or what it is worth, call our firm today. 

Ride Your Bicycle Safely in Motor Vehicle Traffic

Bicyclists are increasingly taking on the streets, which means the accident rate between bikes and motor vehicles has increased. From bike-sharing systems to people buying bikes for environmentally friendly commutes to work, drivers of cars must always be aware of bicycles on the road. Cyclists must also be extremely cautious in traffic. After all, in a car vs. bike scenario, the vehicle is likely to win. 

This outcome would mean the need for a bicycle accident lawyer. Unfortunately, drivers often lose their patience when it comes to a much slower bicycle in their path, and they will sometimes take unnecessary risks for the sake of getting to the destination sooner. There are several ways to be safer as a cyclist when riding in traffic. 

Equip Your Bike With a Horn and Lights

If there is a chance that you will be riding your bike in the dark or even in rainy weather, you will need a bright headlight at the front and a flashing light at the rear. These lights will help significantly make you stand out on the street. The United States does not require a bell or horn on bikes as many countries do. However, a loud horn can prevent bad accidents when you need to get someone’s attention. 

Employ Reflective Materials and Bright Colors

Consider wearing bright colors when you ride. Anytime sunlight is not bright, it is helpful to have reflectors at various points on your bike and to wear reflective gear. A motor vehicle’s headlights will reflect them so that you will be much easier to spot. It can also be beneficial to have a brightly colored bicycle. A bicycle accident lawyer will suggest that anything to make yourself stand out can help you be seen and avoid accidents. 

Ride With Vehicle Traffic 

As a cyclist, you must ride with the motor vehicle traffic flow. Riding against the flow can cause an accident because you would be coming from the wrong direction; drivers turning onto the road would not see you. In addition to riding with the flow of traffic, you must follow all of the road rules just as if you were driving a motor vehicle. 

Be Aware of Car Doors

Especially in on-street parking areas, cyclists must be aware of people opening their car doors as they pass. A door can open in the blink of an eye, and often motor vehicle drivers are too preoccupied to remember to look out for cyclists who may be riding closer to parked cars than other vehicles. 

Make Eye Contact 

Just as watching fellow drivers when you’re in a car is vital, making eye contact with drivers as a cyclist can be even more critical. Make sure the drivers who could approach you see you before you cross the street or turn. If in doubt, wait for the vehicle to pass first. 

Wherever you are cycling, a scary scenario can happen in a mere moment. Many drivers of motor vehicles don’t consider looking out for smaller forms of transportation, and it is easy to overlook a bike. In case of a mishap, a bicycle accident lawyer can help you get what you need to get back out on the road.

Bicycle Accident Infographic

Washington DC Bicycle Accident Statistics

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the number of people killed in the U.S. in bike accidents has reached approximately 50,000 deaths each year, an increase of 40 percent from 10 years ago. The most common type of bike accident is a collision with a motor vehicle. Hundreds of thousands more suffer serious to catastrophic injuries.

If you have been injured in a bike accident, call our office to speak with a skilled Washington DC bicycle accident lawyer to ensure you get the financial compensation you deserve.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations for bringing about a personal injury case for a bicycle accident varies by state. In Washington DC that limit is 3 years. Maryland also has a 3-year statute of limitations in place while Virginia’s is 2 years. This means that the time begins the day of the accident and that the claim and subsequent lawsuit must be brought about within that time frame. 

As your lawyer may tell you, even though 2 or 3 years sounds like a lot of time, it in truth is not. The varying amounts of paperwork, police reports, and other items that are all required to submit a case can take a great deal of time to obtain and process. That is why it is important to get your case started as soon as possible to ensure that the deadlines are met and adhered to. 

Contact The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C today to speak with a bicycle accident lawyer about your case. Our lawyers have the skills, experience, and knowledge to get you the results you desire for your case. Waiting too long to submit could put your case in jeopardy of missing the statute of limitations and subsequently not having a chance at damages and compensation.

Three Important Questions For a Traumatic Car-on-Bike Accident

Being proactive about the rules and regulations regarding bicycling in your area is an excellent place to start before embarking on your next two-wheeled adventure. In the event that an accident does occur, it can be a very traumatic event, making it hard to focus on what is essential in the moment. Here are a few important frequently asked questions about common bicycle accidents.

What do you do if you are hit by a car on your bicycle?

Move yourself to a safe place if you can. Immediately contact law enforcement and call a friend or family member to help you. Connect with the driver involved in the accident and gather their information, including name, number, the type of car they were driving, and insurance. 

Take pictures of the scene of the accident and any obvious injuries. It is critical that you see a medical professional as soon as possible after the accident to rule out internal injuries (even if you think you are okay). Lastly, be sure to keep all documentation in a safe place.

Should I contact an attorney after a car-on-bicycle accident?

Contacting an attorney is a wise choice after being hit while riding your bike. A lawyer is your ally, helping you navigate insurance companies or open a lawsuit for any necessary compensation due to your losses from the accident, for instance, if you have a very expensive bicycle that was damaged in the accident, medical bills, or even for pain and suffering. 

Car-on-bicycle accidents are treated similarly to automobile accidents. An attorney will act as your personal consultant, helping you understand your rights and responsibilities as a bicyclist, and make sure you are taken care of legally after this traumatic event.

What type of insurance covers car-on-bicycle accidents?

There are several avenues of insurance for bicyclists who have been in an accident. Barring that the motorist is not at fault, your opportunities can range from personal health insurance, homeowners insurance, auto insurance, to even a renters insurance policy. If the motorist is determined at fault, his or her auto insurance (in some cases) will cover you as an uninsured motorist. 

Checking with your lawyer and insurance agent is the first step in understanding what benefits you are entitled to. The trauma that follows a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver can make it hard to see the process through. Contacting an attorney and following these steps is a wise place to start.

7 Questions To Ask When Choosing a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

1. How Much Experience Do You Have?

Ask the attornies you are considering how much experience they have as a bicycle accident lawyer in Washington DC. It is important to choose a lawyer that specializes in personal injury cases and even better to choose someone with a lot of experience handling bicycle accident cases.

2. What Is Your Area of Specialty?

Bicycle accidents are not the same as other personal injury cases or even other vehicle accidents. A bicycle accident lawyer in Washington DC has specific expertise in handling bicycle accident cases that may help you achieve a favorable outcome in your case.

3. How Do You Expect My Case To Progress?

All cases are different, but an experienced attorney at the Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect from your case. Your attorney can help you understand what the next steps will be and how long it is likely to take for you to receive compensation.

4. How Will You Communicate With Me?

It is important for the attorney you select to keep you updated on what is going on with your case. Ask your lawyer about how and when communication will occur and how often you can expect to be updated about your case.

5. How Much Success Have You Had With Similar Cases?

You don’t just want a lawyer who has handled a lot of bicycle accident cases. You want a lawyer who has won a lot of bicycle accident cases. Ask any attornies you are considering to share what kind of results they have had with similar cases. Pay particular attention to how often they settle out of court and why. 

6. How Much Is My Case Worth?

The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. can not guarantee you a specific settlement amount for your case. However, it can give you an estimate based on the facts of your case and the outcomes of similar cases handled by the firm. 

7. What Are Your Fees?

Most accident attorneys work on a contingency basis. This means that rather than charging an upfront fee for their services, they charge a percentage of the amount you recover. Ask any attornies that you are considering what percentage they charge and what other amounts, such as the cost to hire an expert witness, may be deducted from your settlement.

Getting in Contact with a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

We recommend that you contact our office after these steps to ensure you have the best representation possible when filing a claim against the driver for their negligence. To speak with a lawyer for bicycle accidents in Washington, DC from the Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., or to set up your first consultation, call our office today.

What is a bicycle accident lawyer?

A bicycle accident lawyer in Washington, DC is a legal professional who helps people who have been injured in bicycle accidents. They may represent the victim in court or work to get them the compensation they deserve from the insurance company. If you have been injured in a bike accident, it is important to speak with a lawyer to find out if you may be entitled to compensation. A bicycle accident lawyer Washington DC can help you file a claim and negotiate with the insurance company. They can also help you file a lawsuit if necessary. Contact the Law Firm Of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C today to learn more about your rights in a bike accident.

What should I do if I am involved in a bicycle accident?

If you are involved in a bicycle accident, you should first seek medical attention. After that, you should contact an attorney. Bicycle accident lawyers can help victims navigate the often confusing and overwhelming process of filing a claim and seeking compensation.

How much will a bicycle accident lawyer charge?

Most bicycle accident lawyers in Washington, DC work on a contingency basis, which means they will not charge any fees until they recover money for their client. This allows victims to focus on recovering from their injuries without worrying about how they will pay for legal representation.

Can a bicycle accident lawyer help me get compensation?

Bicycle accident lawyers can help victims recover money for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. They may be able to negotiate a settlement with the insurance company or take the case to court if necessary.

How long do I have to file a claim after a bicycle accident?

In most states, you have two years from the date of the bicycle accident to file a claim. However, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after the accident in order to ensure that your rights are protected. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, contact the Law Firm of Frederick J.

Why hire a bike accident lawyer?

When you are involved in a bike accident, it’s important to know your rights. A bicycle accident lawyer in Washington, DC can help protect your interests and get you the compensation you deserve. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should consider hiring a bike accident lawyer if you are injured in a biking accident: 

1. They know the law. A bike accident lawyer knows the ins and outs of cycling laws and will be able to advise you on your case. 
2. They have experience with settlements. Bike accidents can often result in serious injuries, requiring extensive medical treatment. A bike accident lawyer will be able to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company on your behalf. 
3. They have resources at their disposal.

Why hire the Law Firm Of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C as your bicycle accident lawyer?

Our bicycle accident lawyers in Washington, DC are knowledgeable about all types of bicycle accidents, including those caused by drunk drivers on the road or children who have not yet learned how to ride a bicycle properly. We understand that these types of accidents happen more often than one would think because riding a bike is common among many people around the world regardless of age or gender. It’s important for us to get this case resolved as quickly as possible so that our clients can move on with their lives without worrying about legal fees and court dates! That’s why we work hard everyday for them – because they matter just as much as their lives do! Call the Law Firm Of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C today!

Do I need an attorney after I’ve been hit by a car while cycling?

Yes. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer is your most important advocate as a cyclist who’s been hit by a car. Working through these cases is a complex matter, especially considering just how many different circumstances can come into play during these types of accidents.

Reach Out to Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. Today

Being hit by a car as a cyclist can be a terrifying experience both in the moment and when you’re navigating the complex legal waters afterward. If you’ve been struck by a vehicle and need legal counsel, don’t hesitate to contact our firm today. We can set up a free initial consultation to go over the details of your case, then decide how to proceed. 

Hiring us is completely risk-free, as we only will charge you for our services if we win your case. If we do not, you do not owe us anything for our time or the money we put into your case. We can greatly increase the amount of compensation you receive, however, so it is in your best interest to give our law office a call today. Do not wait. You need to get started as soon as possible to begin creating your case.