Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Contra Costa County
When someone is involved in an accident with a motorist while riding a bicycle, there is a high probability the bicyclist will endure serious bodily injuries. This is because the bicyclist has little protection (aside from a helmet, if that) and will take the full brunt of the collision. As a result, many bike riders hit by motorists in San Francisco County, Contra Costa County, and Alameda County should speak to an experience bicycle accident injury attorney to discuss their legal options and decide the best path forward for potentially pursuing financial restitution for their harms and losses.
Serious Injuries Suffered in Bicycle Accidents that Take Place in Contra Costa County
One of the primary reasons it makes sense to speak to a knowledgeable San Francisco County bicycle accident lawyer about your legal options is because the bodily injuries suffered as a result of a bicyclist getting hit by car, truck, or SUV can be quite severe and potentially life-altering. Some of the most common injuries reported in these types of accidents include:
- Head injuries such as concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Fractured bones
- Spinal cord damage
- Nerve damage
- Lacerations
- Tendon damage
The injuries listed above are just a sampling of the types of harms that can be endured when someone riding a bike is hit by a careless driver in San Francisco County, Contra Costa County, or Alameda County. These are not injuries you recover from in a few days. These are injuries that requires weeks of physical therapy or even surgery to try and remedy.
Collecting Vital Evidence in the Aftermath of a Bicycle Accident in Contra Costa County
Speaking to an experienced California bicycle accident attorney is also beneficial because they can advise you on the types of evidence that should be collected and preserved, in case your personal injury claim goes to trial. Examples of key pieces of evidence include:
- Photographs of the accident scene
- Photographs of your bodily injuries
- Names and contact information for any witnesses who saw the accident
- Invoices and bills related to your medical treatment
- Summaries of your medical treatment
- Wage statements showing lost income
Limited Amount of Time To File A Bicycle Accident Claim
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a bicycle accident injury claim is usually two years from the date of the collision. Basically, this means a bicycle accident victim typically has two years from the date of the incident to formally file a personal injury lawsuit against the motorist who hit them. However, in certain instances, the statute of limitations is only six months from the date of the accident. This shortened time period applies to accidents involving government vehicles (e.g., city buses, government vehicles operated by personnel, etc.)
Due to the fluctuating statutes of limitation for these types of cases, it is strongly recommended that you contact a skilled and experienced bicycle accident lawyer in San Francisco County, Contra Costa County, and Alameda County sooner rather than later.
Financial Restitution that May Be Available Via a Bicycle Accident Claim
There are various types of compensatory damages available for bicyclists seriously injured due to the careless actions of a motorist. Examples of financial restitution that can be pursued include the following:
- Reimbursement for both immediate and future medical expenses stemming from the bicycle accident
- Lost income and benefits if you were forced to take time off work due to your injuries.
- Pain and suffering damages
- Possible punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or intentional actions
Ready to Take Action? Contact an Experienced California Bicycle Accident Attorney
If you were seriously injured in a bicycle accident caused by the careless or reckless actions of a motorist in San Francisco County, Contra Costa County, or Alameda County, take action to ensure they are held accountable. Michael Geller is a seasoned bicycle accident lawyer who will work tirelessly to get the compensation you are owed for your harms and losses. Contact The Geller Firm today to schedule a free, confidential case review.
