The consequences of a bicycle accident can be devastating. If you were injured in a bike crash, a bicycle accident lawyer can help you recover damages.
Sweet James has extensive experience helping clients like you. If you were involved in a bike wreck, an Arizona bicycle accident lawyer from our team can assist with your claim and help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under the law.
How an Arizona Bicycle Accident Attorney Can Help
A bicycle accident lawyer in Arizona focuses on protecting your rights and building a strong case from day one. Specifically, a lawyer can help by:
- Investigating the accident: We can gather police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements to identify evidence and determine potential liability for the accident.
- Calculating damages: We can tally all of your losses, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Handling insurance negotiations: Insurers often offer low settlements early on. We can handle conversations with adjusters and provide persistent advocacy during the negotiation process.
- Filing a lawsuit: If negotiations fail, we can take your case to court and present it before a judge or jury.
What Types of Damages Are Available?
If someone else caused your bicycle accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Available damages often include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage (including your bicycle and gear)
A personal injury lawyer can work to document the full extent of your losses for inclusion in your claim.
What Is the Deadline for Filing a Bike Accident Claim in Arizona?
According to A.R.S. § 12-542, you typically have two years from the date of a bike accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to recover compensation entirely. Exceptions may apply if a government entity is involved, but those cases have much shorter notice requirements.
Waiting too long to file a claim can weaken your case. A personal injury attorney in Arizona can help you file as soon as possible.
How to Deal With Insurance Companies After a Bike Accident
Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but they work for companies interested in protecting their bottom line. They may:
- Ask for recorded statements
- Downplay your injuries
- Claim you were riding unsafely
- Offer a quick settlement before you understand the extent of your damages
Accepting an early offer can cost you thousands, and once you sign a release, you typically cannot pursue additional compensation later. This is why it’s crucial to consult an attorney before providing a recorded statement or signing any documents.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Arizona
Arizona’s wide roads and high-speed traffic create real risks for cyclists. Some of the most common causes of bike accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Unsafe lane changes
- Dooring accidents
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Running red lights or stop signs
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Unlike drivers and passengers in cars, cyclists have little protection. As such, even a low-speed crash can result in serious injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken arms, legs, and ribs
- Road rash and severe lacerations
- Internal bleeding
- Facial and dental injuries
Arizona Bicycle Laws You Should Know
Arizona law gives cyclists the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. In other words, while bicyclists generally have the right to use the roadway, they must obey traffic signals and signs.
State law dictates that:
- Cyclists must ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb, except when turning left or avoiding hazards.
- Drivers must provide a safe passing distance when overtaking a bicycle.
- Bicycles ridden at night must have a white front light and a red rear reflector or light.
- Helmets are not required for adults statewide, but some local ordinances may mandate them for minors.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Arizona
The steps you take immediately after a crash can affect the outcome of your case. You should:
- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage.
- Get contact information from witnesses.
- Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Avoid discussing fault with the driver or insurance adjusters.
- Reach out to an attorney to go over your legal options.
Consult a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Arizona
A serious bicycle accident can derail your life. In the aftermath, medical bills and lost wages can pile up, and day-to-day tasks can become difficult or even impossible.
If you or someone you love was a victim of a bike crash, an Arizona bicycle accident attorney from Sweet James can take on your case, negotiate with insurers, and help you pursue compensation.
Insurance companies’ only concern is their bottom line. You need someone looking out for you. Schedule a free case review to start pursuing a claim for compensation.
Sweet James Accident Attorneys
Phoenix Office Location
7310 N. 16th Street, Suite 250
Phoenix, AZ 85020
602-858-7768
