Riding a bike can be a relaxing activity or an excellent way to get exercise. Many Oakwood residents also choose bikes as their preferred way to commute or run errands. Unfortunately, some drivers do not give bike riders the respect that they deserve while on public roads. When motor vehicle operators act carelessly or recklessly around bikers, they can cause collisions that result in serious injuries.
If you were hurt in a bike crash, an Oakwood bicycle accident lawyer may be able to help you to pursue compensation for your losses. At Smith Hulsey, an experienced attorney could explain the relevant laws, gather evidence from the crash, measure how the incident has impacted your life, and seek fair payments from all liable parties.
A basic concept under the law states that all drivers owe a duty of care to everyone else on the road. They must follow traffic laws and act reasonably to avoid causing harm to other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Because it is legal to operate a bicycle on Oakwood’s roads, drivers must take appropriate steps to avoid collisions or other dangerous situations.
However, bike riders have their own duties under the law to avoid crashes. For example, the Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 40-6-294 states that all traffic laws in the state apply to bike riders as well as motorists. This means that if a bicyclist fails to yield, tailgates, or does not signal a turn, they may be liable for an ensuing collision.
Essentially, determining fault for a bicycle accident requires an in-depth investigation into the facts that led to the incident. An Oakwood bicycle collision attorney could help gather this information to prove that another party was liable for the crash.
Bicycle wrecks can have particularly catastrophic consequences, as riders are relatively unprotected from the impact of a vehicle. As such, an injured cyclist may need to recover significant restitution to cover their losses stemming from a collision. At-fault drivers have an obligation under the law to provide appropriate compensation for all necessary medical care. This may include an ER visit, ambulance ride, surgery, doctor’s appointments, and rehabilitative services.
However, these accidents can also cause emotional trauma for an injured biker in addition to their physical injuries. On top of that, the victim may be unable to work while they are recovering, leading to a loss of wages. A local attorney at Smith Hulsey could assess all of an injured biker’s losses and demand appropriate compensation in a civil claim.
Bicyclists have the same rights and protections on the road as any other driver. As such, if a negligent motorist causes a collision, an injured biker can demand compensation with help from a skilled attorney.
An Oakwood bicycle accident lawyer at Smith Hulsey could help you to pursue these payments. We could deal with insurance companies, present a compelling case in court, and advocate on your behalf throughout the process. Reach out to our firm today to set up an initial consultation about your circumstances.
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