Since 1974 we, at Deming Parker, have put our clients in the community of Georgia first, understanding that every case is unique. Our team of attorneys in our Atlanta office will advise you and accompany you throughout the process to claim the compensation that is rightfully yours after a bicycle accident.
Atlanta Bicycle Accident Attorney – Claim Fair Compensation for Your Injuries
On many occasions, motorcycle accidents or bicycle accidents are caused by other drivers behaving negligently. That is why a dedicated personal injury lawyer is necessary. We will meticulously investigate the circumstances of your accident, gathering crucial evidence that demonstrates the negligence of the responsible party to build a strong case to present to justice.
With our comprehensive knowledge of Georgia’s traffic laws and personal injury regulations, we will guide you through the world of insurance claims, ensuring you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and, for the pain and suffering that the accident caused you.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Atlanta
With decades of experience serving the community, we have often seen how cyclists are often the most damaged parties in motor accidents. Whether they are involved in a car collision, truck, or motorcycle accident, cyclists are sadly the ones who suffer the impact of a collision in a way that can deeply impact their lives. The most common causes of cycling accidents we have seen in Atlanta are:
- Distracted driving: When drivers are distracted, they pose a significant risk to cyclists, as the injuries sustained by cyclists tend to be much more severe due to the lack of protection compared to other drivers.
- Driver error: Accidents can be linked to driver error, such as violating traffic laws, driving while distracted, speeding, driving under the influence, or driving in a bike lane.
- Faulty equipment: Some bicycle accidents are the result of a defect in the bicycle itself, such as faulty brakes, defective components, or damaged parts, which can cause a cyclist to lose control of the bicycle or be unable to stop in time.
- Violation of bicycle laws: Accidents can occur when other drivers fail to treat bicyclists as vehicles. In Georgia, bicycles are classified as vehicles and must follow basic traffic laws.
If you or someone you know has suffered any of the above-mentioned accidents, know that you are entitled to compensation under Georgia law.
Determining Fault in Atlanta Bicycle Accidents
Determining who was at fault in a bicycle accident is essential to cover related medical expenses, or even to get compensation for the deceased family in unfortunate cases of death by a wrongful act. Our lawyers are highly qualified to help and accompany you throughout the legal process. The steps they will follow are as follows:
Driver Negligence
A significant factor in many bicycle accidents is driver negligence. This can manifest in various forms, such as distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield to cyclists at intersections, or not respecting designated bike lanes. When a driver’s careless actions lead to an accident, they may be held legally responsible for the injuries or damages incurred by the cyclist.
Road Conditions and Municipal Liability
Often, the fault may lie in the conditions of the road itself. Issues like potholes, poorly designed intersections, inadequate signage, or lack of proper bike lanes can create hazardous situations for cyclists. In such cases, the city or municipality responsible for road maintenance and urban planning might be held accountable for neglecting to ensure safe cycling conditions.
Vehicle Malfunctions
In some instances, bicycle accidents can be attributed to malfunctions in the motor vehicle involved. If a car’s failure, such as brake failure or malfunctioning signals, leads to an accident, the vehicle manufacturer or the party responsible for its maintenance could be liable.
No matter what are the specific circumstances surrounding your case, our team is here to help you find the guilty and hold them accountable for your injuries and damages.
Recovering Damages After a Bicycle Accident in Atlanta
Recovering damages after a bicycle accident in Atlanta can be challenging, but with the help of our experienced injury lawyers, you can navigate it successfully. According to the following Georgia code O.C.G.A. § 40, you’re entitled to recover all the damages related to the accident, and we can help you calculate them to make sure you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
Economic Damages
These damages refer to the quantifiable financial losses incurred by an individual as a direct result of the accident, such expenses typically include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, property damage, and lost wages. Our attorneys will make sure that you receive fair compensation to which you are legally entitled.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages refer to the intangible and non-monetary losses or suffering experienced by an individual as a result of the accident. Some of them may be: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life among other emotional, psychological, and physical difficulties. Although these damages are more difficult to quantify, our team of experienced lawyers will make sure to calculate adequate compensation for the damages suffered.
Legal Options After a Bicycle Accident in Georgia
After suffering a bicycle accident, you have several legal options to pursue compensation and justice for the injuries and damages caused. Our team of experts will guide you in protecting your rights so that you receive the compensation you deserve.
File an Insurance Claim
If the at-fault party has insurance coverage, you can file a claim with their insurance company. This can include the cyclist’s insurance policy and the insurance of the responsible driver.
Negotiate a Settlement
For this option, our experts will communicate with the other parties involved to start the negotiation. During negotiations, both sides may provide evidence and documentation to support their positions. If negotiations reach an impasse, mediation may be considered. Once both parties agree on a settlement amount and the terms of the agreement, a formal settlement agreement is drafted and then signed in order to receive the final payment.
File a Lawsuit
In Georgia, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit, according to the Statute of Limitations. Our specialist lawyers will accompany you throughout the entire process, from drafting and filing the complaint document (outlining the details of the accident, the injuries sustained, the damages you are seeking, and also naming the defendant, that is the party you are suing) to the negotiation or trial.
Seek Mediation or Arbitration
Before going to trial, there may be opportunities for negotiation and mediation to reach a settlement with the defendant or their insurance company. Our attorneys will make sure to represent your best interests during this instance.
Why You Need an Atlanta Bicycle Accident Attorney
Being involved in a bicycle accident can be overwhelming for many different reasons, including navigating the process of seeking justice. Our attorneys in Deming Parker are highly qualified to guide you through the legal process and help you understand and navigate the world of law in Atlanta, Georgia.
If you suffered an accident or any kind of damage due to the negligence of third parties, do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.
Atlanta Office
2200 Century Pkwy NE, Suite 800
Atlanta, Georgia 30345
Phone: 404-636-4900