Many bicyclists are injured each year as the result of crashes caused by negligent motorists. For instance, such accidents regularly occur because drivers are speeding, distracted, and impaired. Thankfully, negligent motorists may be held accountable for the collisions they cause.
There are several types of damages that may be compensated through bicycle accident lawsuits. However, defendants are usually represented by insurers that hire teams of people to dispute plaintiffs’ cases. Support from legal representation can be highly valuable to victims when fighting for the financial compensation they are owed.
If you are hurt because of a bicycle accident in Marietta, GA, seek help from our experienced bicycle accident lawyers at Howe Law by dialing (844) 876-4357.
Damages You May Recover After a Bicycle Accident in Marietta, GA
The damages available in your bicycle accident lawsuit can vary depending on several factors such as the type and severity of your injuries. During a free case assessment, our bicycle accident attorneys can explain which of the following may be available to you:
Medical Bills
First, you may seek compensation for your medical bills. These damages cover the costs of medical treatment and care received because of your bicycle accident injuries. For instance, you may be compensated for the cost of your emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor consultations, medication, physical therapy, and any other necessary medical treatments.
Evidence to establish medical bills may include copies of medical invoices, receipts, and records from healthcare providers detailing the treatments received and the associated costs. Testimony from medical professionals may also be presented to validate the necessity of the treatments and their relation to the accident.
Accordingly, it is very important that you seek medical treatment quickly in the aftermath of your bicycle accident. If you allow your injuries to heal before being documented by a physician, then you may seriously complicate the settlement process in your case.
Lost Wages
You may also pursue damages for any lost wages that you incurred because of your bicycle accident injuries. Lost wages encompass the income you would have earned had you not been injured and forced to take time off work to recover.
This compensation includes not only regular wages but also any lost bonuses, commissions, and other employment benefits. Also, if your injuries restrict your ability to work in the future, then you may receive payment for your diminished earning capacity.
Evidence used to prove lost wages may include pay stubs, employment contracts, tax records, and statements from employers confirming the period of absence and the corresponding financial losses. Expert testimony may also be used to calculate the projected future lost earnings for those with long-term injuries.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses
In addition to medical bills and lost wages, you obtain reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses related to your accident and your injuries. Out-of-pocket expenses can encompass various costs, such as transportation to medical appointments, medical equipment, and home care services.
For instance, a parent who is injured as the result of their bicycle accident may have to pay for assistance with child care during their recovery. In that case, the cost of child care support may be included in the plaintiff’s claim.
Evidence to establish out-of-pocket expenses may include receipts, invoices, and documentation proving the necessity and cost of the specific items or services. Therefore, you should keep a record of all costs incurred as a result of your bicycle accident injuries.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering damages are non-economic and aim to compensate you for the physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life resulting from your bicycle accident. For example, in addition to causing physical pain, a spinal cord injury may restrict a bicycle accident victim from participating in their favorite hobbies after their collision. In that case, the plaintiff may be entitled to payment for both the physical pain and emotional distress related to their injuries.
These damages are challenging to quantify as they represent the intangible suffering you may have endured. Evidence utilized to establish pain and suffering damages may include expert testimonies from medical professionals that document your injuries’ impact on your well-being. Additionally, statements from friends and family members may provide insight into the psychological and emotional toll your accident has taken. Guidance from our legal team can be highly beneficial when building a claim for pain and suffering damages in your case.
Property Damage
Lastly, you may acquire compensation for any property damage incurred as a result of your bicycle accident. For instance, you may pursue payment for the cost of repair or replacement of your damaged bicycle. Furthermore, you may seek compensation for damage to other belongings such as your helmet, cycling gear, or smartphone.
Evidence used to establish property damage may include receipts, estimates, or quotes from bicycle shops or repair services detailing the cost of repairs or replacement. Also, photographs from the scene of your accident may be presented. You should attempt to take photos of any damaged property in the immediate aftermath of your collision if possible.
Considering Settlement Offers in Marietta Bicycle Accident Cases
If you file a bicycle accident lawsuit, then the defendant will likely attempt to settle your case before going to trial. When you enter into settlement agreement, the defendant will pay you a specific sum of damages and your case will be dismissed. There are potential advantages to settling early. For example, by accepting a settlement offer, you may save on certain expenses that you would incur at trial. Furthermore, you may obtain compensation more quickly.
Unfortunately, there is a chance that the defendant in your case will attempt to settle for less than your claim is truly worth. If you do not receive an appropriate settlement offer, then you must go to trial to acquire the full extent of monetary damages you deserve. The experienced team at our law firm can help consider any settlement offers made in your case. That way, you can confidently decide whether settling early or going to trial is best for you.
Call Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers for Assistance with Your Case in Marietta, GA
Seek guidance from our bicycle accident attorneys by calling Howe Law today at (844) 876-4357.
