Call Us atBicycle accidents often lead to major injuries for riders. Bicycles do not offer the protections that motor vehicles do, which means riders are more likely to be harmed in a crash. If the injury was caused by another person’s negligence, a personal injury lawsuit may help you recover financial compensation. An Anchorage bicycle accident lawyer could work with you to file a lawsuit and construct an argument for the recovery of damages.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicyclists ride for many reasons, such as for recreation, commuting to work, or, in some situations, as part of their job. However, they assume some level of risk when they utilize the roadways with other vehicles. Injuries are unfortunately common even in small collisions. The kinds of harm that lawyers typically see in these cases include, but are not limited to:
- Road rash and other surface-level damage
- Crush injuries
- Paralysis
- Organ damage
- Traumatic brain injury
- Accidental death
Serious injuries may lead to a substantial monetary award if it can be proven that the crash was the result of another person’s negligent or reckless actions. A bicycle accident attorney in Anchorage has the experience to pursue compensation for every single injury and loss that someone suffered as a result of the traumatic incident.
Statute of Limitations in Alaska
Alaska sets a time limit by which a bicycle accident case must be filed in a lawsuit. Alaska Statutes § 09.10.070 requires that personal injury lawsuits based on negligence be filed within two years of the date the accident occurred. This time limit means that if the plaintiff does not file their case in time, it will be dismissed. This could result in the loss of a plaintiff’s right to win financial compensation even when it is merited. It is important to consult a bicycle accident lawyer right away to ensure all deadlines are met.
Proving Negligence in Bicycle Accidents
For a chance at financial recovery, a plaintiff must prove that their injuries were caused by another person’s negligence. Negligence occurs when a person fails to abide by their duty of care, and that breach of duty leads to an accident and the plaintiff’s injuries. The plaintiff could potentially be partially responsible for the accident. If that is the case, their ultimate compensation might be reduced based on their percentage of fault.
Proving negligence requires the work of a skilled bike collision attorney in Anchorage. They have experience in performing the legal research, presenting the evidence, and working to secure a favorable settlement or verdict. Performing a thorough evaluation of the case also involves talking to witnesses and law enforcement, reviewing medical records, and utilizing expert testimony to help prove the plaintiff’s case.
Financial Compensation
Compensation is the goal of a civil lawsuit. It is meant to help a plaintiff get back on their feet after an accident, and recover financially and emotionally from the injuries. Compensation for bike accidents may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Rehabilitation costs
- Funeral expenses if the injured person died
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
While losses such as the value of hospital bills and past wage loss will typically be more straightforward to determine, a lawyer could help someone determine how loss of earnings, loss of enjoyment of life, performing daily activities while suffering pain, emotional, and mental trauma could be calculated and compensated for as well.
Consult an Anchorage Bicycle Accident Attorney Before Filing a Lawsuit
An especially violent bike accident could affect your life – and your financial situation – for years. When it was caused by the negligence of another person, you have the right to speak to an attorney and determine what your recovery options are. An Anchorage bicycle accident lawyer could help you seek financial compensation. Contact us today – we do not charge a fee unless you are compensated for your harms and losses.
