BICYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER IN EUGENE, OR
Located on the Williamette River, Eugene has plenty of parks and other places to ride bicycles. During nice weather, people are more apt to ride bicycles for fun and to use as transportation, which means that the risk of getting into a bicycle accident also increases. When a vehicle crashes into a bicycle, the chances of a bicyclist suffering catastrophic injuries or death is high because of the minimal safety equipment and metal surrounding the rider.
If you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a bicycle accident, contact a Eugene bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible for a free case evaluation by calling 206-737-2997 or visiting our website.
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How a Eugene Bicycle Accident Attorney Can Help
When you have to focus on your finances instead of recovering after a bicycle accident, recovery sometimes takes longer. You also have the added worry of wondering what happens next, whether you will lose your job, or if you can even go back to work.
When you retain a Eugene bicycle accident attorney, you won’t have to worry about any of that. We’ll start investigating your case and gathering evidence, then start negotiating with the insurance company – or companies. In some cases, you could recover compensation from more than one defendant. Commercial drivers that cause accidents are often not the only ones at fault. In many truck accidents, the company or even the manufacturer could share responsibility for your injuries or the loss of a loved one.
Instead of your dealing with the tons of emails, phone calls and letters from insurance adjusters, we will deal with them. We also make sure you get the compensation you deserve to cover medical expenses and other damages, including pain and suffering.
Rules Bicyclists Must Abide By
Bicyclists have to follow the rules of the road, just as drivers of vehicles do. While the rules help keep bicyclists safe, they are only part of the safety options available to bicyclists. The rules which aim to protect bicycle riders include:
- Motorized vehicles must yield to a bicyclist in a bike lane or on a sidewalk.
- Motor vehicle drivers can only pass a bicyclist on the left.
Safety Precautions for Bicyclists
In addition to following the rules of the road, a bicyclist can reduce his or her chance of getting into a bicycle accident by . . .
- Always wearing personal protective equipment, including shoulder, elbow and knee pads, helmets, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and long sleeves
- Installing additional safety equipment on the bike, including a headlight, horn, bell, and taillight
- Always being aware of surroundings
- Never wearing earbuds or anything else that can obstruct hearing
- Watching for drivers who might open a car doors into the bike path
- Always riding with traffic, not against traffic.
Causes of Eugene Bicycle Accidents
Negligent drivers cause many bicycle accidents – and sometimes, a bicyclist cannot avoid an accident, especially if it happens before the bike rider even registers that it is happening. Some of the common causes of bicycle accidents include:
- Drivers driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Drivers driving while distracted, whether texting, putting on makeup, reading, or even holding a conversation with someone in the passenger seat. Parents who constantly look at their children in the rear seat can also cause a bicycle accident.
- Aggressive driving.
- Poorly maintained roads.
- Impatient drivers.
- Vehicle malfunction.
- A medical condition.
Accidents can cause injuries that could lead to long-term or permanent disabilities, causing you to significantly alter your life. Contact a Eugene bicycle accident lawyer today if you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a bicycle wreck.
Bicycle Accident Injuries
Because bicycles are so much smaller and lighter than any vehicle on the road, including motorcycles, car accidents involving bicycles often result in catastrophic injuries or death. Injuries might include:
- Bumps, bruises, scrapes, cuts, and scratches
- Sprains and strains
- Pulled and torn muscles and other soft tissue injuries
- Simple and compound fractures
- Crushed bones
- Crush injuries
- Internal injuries
- Face and eye injuries
- Head, neck and shoulder injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Amputations.
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“Very professional, and treated me as an equal.”
Just wanted to say thank you to Jed and his team at Strong Law. Not only was I happy with the outcome, but the entire process as a whole. I would definitely recommend this firm to anyone. Thanks again.
“Unbelievable work!”
I had a claim involving my own insurance company. I tried to negotiate with them, and they completely denied my claim – two times. I then hired Strong Law, and the change was instant. The insurance company immediately began negotiating, and Jed was able to secure an unbelievably good settlement. I will never again attempt to take-on an insurance company without Strong Law in my corner. Thank you!”
“I got justice and awesome compensation.”
“I hired Strong Law after my car accident. Jed and his team worked hard on my case. They were professional and compassionate through my surgery and as I recovered, and they were awesome on communication. I got justice and awesome compensation. I would recommend Strong Law to anyone in my situation.”
Your Accident Settlement Check
Once you win a settlement or trial award, it takes some time to get your check. Before you see any money:
- You sign the settlement agreement. If you won a trial award, you must wait until the court signs the final judgment and files it. This process often takes at least two weeks.
- The insurance company processes the settlement agreement or final judgment and then sends a check to your attorney, who deposits the check into an escrow account. This process could take a few days to a week or two, depending on the insurance company.
- The attorney pays any outstanding medical expenses you have, reimburses your insurance companies if applicable, and deducts attorneys’ fees and costs as agreed upon in your contingency contract. This part of the process takes at least two weeks. The attorney must wait until the check clears the bank before he or she can start working on disbursements. Depending on the amount of the check, it could take 10 to 14 days for the bank to make funds available.
Once that has been completed, the attorney forwards a check for the balance to you.
Recoverable Damages
After a bicycle accident, you could recover compensatory damages in the form of economic damages and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Sometimes referred to as special damages, economic damages have a monetary value and replace out-of-pocket expenses. Economic damages include:
- Medical expenses: Surgeries, doctors’ appointments, follow-up appointments, physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological therapy, cognitive therapy, prescriptions, hand controls for your vehicle, and upgrades to your home, including ramps, grab bars and widened doorways.
- Wages: You can recover wages for the time you are not able to work up until the settlement or trial award. If your injuries cause long-term or permanent disabilities or you lost a loved one, we will figure loss of future earning capacity from the accident through the time you would normally retire.
- Personal property: You could also receive compensation for any property on your person that was destroyed or damaged in the wreck, including your bicycle and cell phone.
- Death-related expenses: You can recover death-related expenses, such as funeral and burial expenses, cremation expenses, the cost of a probate attorney, and some probate court fees.
Non-Economic Damages
Often referred to as general damages, non-economic damages are less easily calculated and subjective, although they can significantly affect your life. Non-economic damages include:
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of use of a body part or bodily function
- Inconvenience
- Compensation for amputations, disfigurement, and excessive scarring.
Frequently Asked Questions for Bicycle Accidents in Eugene
What do I do after a Eugene bicycle accident?
If you are not able to move without causing additional damage, do not move. If possible, call first responders.
If you are able to move without causing additional pain and damage:
- Call first responders.
- Take photos of the accident scene.
- Allow emergency medical technicians to check you over.
- Give a statement to the police.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible, preferably immediately after the accident. Waiting gives insurance companies a way to deny your claim.
- Contact bicycle accident lawyers in Eugene at Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys as soon as possible.
Do I have to wear a bicycle helmet?
If you are under 16 years of age, Oregon requires you to wear a bicycle helmet. Otherwise, it is not required, although it is a smart thing to do.
What other safety equipment does my bike need?
In addition to a helmet, you should have the following on your bicycle:
- A brake that will stop the bicycle within 15 feet at 10 mph on level, dry pavement.
- A white headlight that is visible for at least 500 feet.
- Red reflectors or lights that are visible for at least 600 when a car’s headlights hit it (in the rear).
How do I pay for a Eugene bicycle lawyer?
The initial case evaluation is free. You sign a contingency contract which means that you only pay attorneys’ fees if we win your case for you.
How do I pay for medical expenses while waiting for a settlement?
You can use your health insurance to cover most of your medical expenses. You might be able to use your auto insurance – that depends on your policy. You can also ask your attorney to write a letter to medical professionals to defer collection and payment until you receive a settlement agreement.
How long do I have to take legal action after a bicycle accident?
You have up to two years to take legal action after a bicycle accident. However, we recommend that you contact a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Contact a Eugene Bicycle Accident Law Firm
After suffering injuries or losing a loved one in a bicycle accident, the last thing you want to do is go back and forth with an insurance company. It is better to concentrate on recovering. Additionally, you might be able to take legal action against more than one defendant in some circumstances. As part of your case investigation, a Eugene bicycle accident lawyer checks to see if someone other than the driver is partly responsible for your injuries and other damages.
If you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a bicycle accident, contact a Eugene bicycle accident attorney by calling the firm at 206-737-2997.
Navigating Bicycle Accident Claims
Riding a bicycle is not only a great way to stay fit and reduce your carbon footprint, but it's also an efficient means of transport. However, cyclists are vulnerable on the road, and accidents can happen despite the best precautions. When they do, having a skilled Eugene, OR bicycle accident lawyer can make all the difference in the pursuit of justice and fair compensation. Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys can assist with your case if you reach out today.
Understanding The Legal Landscape
Bicycle accidents fall under personal injury law, which can be complex and multifaceted. From determining liability to negotiating with insurance companies, a specialized lawyer understands the nuances of these cases. They begin by thoroughly investigating the accident to gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage. This comprehensive approach helps build a strong case by establishing the facts and identifying responsible parties.
Proving Liability And Damages
One of the critical tasks of a lawyer in a bicycle accident case is proving liability. This involves demonstrating that the other party’s negligence caused the accident. It could be due to distracted driving, failing to yield, or violating traffic laws. Your lawyer will use the gathered evidence to show how these actions led to the accident and your injuries.
In addition to proving liability, your Eugene bicycle accident attorney will work to establish the extent of your damages. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term impacts on your quality of life. By meticulously documenting these damages, your lawyer ensures that you receive a settlement that accurately reflects the full scope of your losses.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, which can be frustrating and overwhelming for accident victims. A bicycle accident lawyer serves as your advocate in negotiations with insurers. They understand the tactics used by insurance adjusters and can counter them effectively. By presenting a well-documented case and negotiating assertively, your lawyer can secure a fair settlement without the need for prolonged litigation.
Representation In Court
If negotiations with the insurance company fail to result in a satisfactory settlement, your case may need to go to court. Here, a bicycle accident lawyer's expertise is invaluable. They will represent you in court, presenting evidence, examining witnesses, and making compelling arguments to a judge or jury. Their goal is to demonstrate the validity of your claims and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Providing Emotional Support And Guidance
Beyond legal representation, a dedicated lawyer also provides emotional support and guidance throughout the process. Dealing with the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be incredibly stressful, especially when facing medical treatments and financial uncertainties. Your lawyer will help alleviate some of this burden by handling the legal complexities and keeping you informed at every step. Their support allows you to focus on your recovery while they fight for your rights.
Maximizing Compensation And Future Planning
A bicycle accident lawyer not only seeks to secure immediate compensation for your current losses but also considers future needs. They understand that some injuries can have long-lasting effects, requiring ongoing medical care and impacting your ability to work. By accounting for these future expenses in your claim, your lawyer ensures that you are not left financially vulnerable down the road.
Empowering Victims Through Knowledge
One of the key roles of Eugene bicycle accident lawyers is empowering victims with knowledge. They will explain your rights, the legal process, and what to expect at each stage of your case. This transparency helps you make informed decisions and feel more confident in the pursuit of justice. With a lawyer by your side, you are not just a passive participant but an active advocate for your own well-being.
Reach Out Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, don't navigate the legal system alone. Reach out to a specialized lawyer who can guide you through the complexities, fight for your rights, and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our law firm today for a free consultation and take the first step towards justice and recovery.
The Importance Of Gathering Evidence After A Bicycle Accident
Our Eugene, OR bicycle accident lawyer understands that experiencing a bicycle accident can be traumatic and disorienting, among many other things. However, gathering evidence at the scene and shortly after the accident is crucial for building a strong case. Using our understanding of how insurance companies and their attorneys must operate, we work with them while waiting until just the right time to strategically gain the best position for our clients, and it’s served them well. At Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys, we emphasize the importance of collecting evidence to support your claim. Here are the key reasons why gathering evidence after a bicycle accident is essential.
1. Establishing Liability
One of the primary reasons for collecting evidence is to establish liability. Determining who is at fault is critical in personal injury cases. Photographs of the accident scene, including the positions of the vehicles and bicycle, road conditions, and traffic signals, can provide clear insights into how the accident occurred. This evidence helps your lawyer prove the other party’s negligence.
2. Documenting Injuries
Photographs of your injuries immediately after the accident and during your recovery process are powerful evidence. They visually demonstrate the severity of your injuries and the impact they have had on your life. These images can be compelling when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court.
3. Supporting Police Reports
Police reports are an official record of the accident and are often a crucial piece of evidence. However, they might not capture every detail. Supplementing the police report with your own evidence, such as photographs, witness statements, and your account of the accident, can provide a more comprehensive picture of what happened.
4. Strengthening Witness Testimonies
Witness testimonies can be instrumental in corroborating your version of events. Gathering contact information from witnesses at the scene allows your lawyer to obtain statements that support your claim. Witnesses can provide unbiased perspectives that may confirm details about the accident, the actions of the parties involved, and the conditions at the time.
5. Preserving Evidence Before It Disappears
Accident scenes change quickly. Vehicles are moved, debris is cleared, and road conditions change. By gathering evidence immediately, you capture the scene as it was at the time of the accident. This can be crucial for proving your case, especially if there are disputes about the circumstances of the accident later on. This evidence helps your Eugene bicycle accident lawyer prove the other party’s negligence.
6. Demonstrating the Impact on Daily Life
Evidence of how the accident has affected your daily life is vital for claiming non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Keeping a journal of your physical pain, emotional struggles, and limitations in your daily activities provides a detailed account of the accident’s impact on your life.
7. Calculating Financial Losses
Detailed records of all medical treatments, rehabilitation sessions, and related expenses are essential for calculating economic damages. Keep all receipts, bills, and any correspondence with healthcare providers. This documentation helps to accurately calculate the financial impact of the accident and supports your claim for compensation.
8. Strengthening Negotiation Power
When negotiating with insurance companies, having comprehensive evidence strengthens your position. Insurers are more likely to offer fair settlements when faced with well-documented claims. Evidence shows that you are prepared to support your case with concrete proof, which can expedite the settlement process.
9. Proving the Extent of Property Damage
Photographs of your damaged bicycle, helmet, and any other personal property involved in the accident help to substantiate claims for property damage. These images provide visual proof of the extent of the damage, which is necessary for claiming repair or replacement costs.
10. Building a Strong Legal Case
Ultimately, gathering evidence is about building a strong legal case. The more evidence you have, the better equipped your lawyer will be to advocate for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Evidence provides the foundation for a compelling argument in court or during settlement negotiations.
At Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys, we are dedicated to helping you build the strongest possible case after a bicycle accident. Because of our unique knowledge, we are winning trial lawyers with a well curated reputation, and we are not ashamed to have settled several cases at more than a million dollars. If you have been involved in an accident, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Eugene bicycle accident lawyer. We are here to support you and help you secure the compensation you need for your recovery.
Bicycle Accident FAQs
Riding a bicycle is a fantastic way to stay fit, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy the outdoors. However, sharing the road with motor vehicles requires extra precautions to ensure your safety. Below are some frequently asked questions that can help you stay safe while cycling. Your first move after getting home safely should be to contact an experienced Eugene, OR bicycle accident lawyer to help with your case. Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys have helped thousands of people with their cases and would be happy to set up a free consultation to go over yours.
What Should I Wear To Be Visible On The Road?
Visibility is crucial for cyclists. Wear bright, reflective clothing to make yourself easily seen, especially during low-light conditions like dawn, dusk, or at night. A good rule of thumb is to wear fluorescent or neon colors during the day and reflective gear at night. Additionally, consider attaching lights to your bicycle—white for the front and red for the rear. Many cyclists also use reflective tape on their helmets and bicycles to increase visibility.
How Should I Position Myself On The Road?
Positioning on the road is vital for your safety. Always ride in the same direction as traffic and stay as far to the right as is safe, except when you're making a left turn, avoiding hazards, or passing another cyclist or vehicle. Use bike lanes where available, but if you're on a road without a bike lane, maintain a position that gives you space to react to potential dangers like parked cars or sudden lane changes by vehicles. Remember to ride in a straight line and avoid weaving between parked cars, which can make you less predictable to drivers.
Should I Use Hand Signals?
Yes, hand signals are essential for communicating your intentions to drivers and other cyclists. Before making any turn, be sure to signal your direction well in advance. Extend your left arm straight out for a left turn, your right arm straight out for a right turn, and your left arm bent downward at the elbow to indicate a stop. Making your actions clear and predictable can significantly reduce the risk of an accident.
What Are The Rules Regarding Helmets?
While helmet laws vary by state and locality, wearing a helmet is always a wise choice. Helmets are proven to reduce the risk of serious head injuries in the event of a crash. Ensure your helmet fits snugly and meets the safety standards set by organizations like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It should sit level on your head and cover your forehead without tilting back.
How Can I Safely Cross Intersections?
Intersections are hotspots for accidents, so it's essential to be extra cautious. When approaching an intersection, make eye contact with drivers if possible to ensure they see you. Obey traffic signals and stop signs, and never assume a driver will yield the right of way. If you're unsure whether it's safe to cross, wait until it's clear. For added safety, you can dismount and walk your bike across the intersection using the pedestrian crosswalk.
What Should I Do If I Encounter A Vehicle Turning Right?
A common cause of bicycle accidents is the "right hook," where a vehicle turns right across a cyclist's path. To avoid this, never pass a vehicle on the right at an intersection or driveway. Instead, stay behind the vehicle or move into the center of the lane to prevent a car from turning into you. Always stay alert and anticipate the movements of drivers, especially at intersections.
How Can I Avoid Door-Related Accidents?
"Dooring" occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of a cyclist. To avoid this, ride at least three feet away from parked cars. If you're in a situation where this isn't possible, slow down and be prepared to stop quickly. Keep an eye out for drivers who may be about to exit their vehicles, and look for signs like brake lights or people inside the car.
Is It Safe To Ride With Headphones?
Riding with headphones can impair your ability to hear traffic and other important sounds, making it more dangerous. It’s better to keep your ears open and be fully aware of your surroundings. If you must listen to something, consider using a single earbud or a speaker instead of covering both ears.
What Should I Do If I Get Into An Accident?
If you're involved in an accident, first check yourself for injuries and call emergency services if needed. Gather as much information as possible, including the driver's name, contact details, and insurance information, as well as the names of any witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene, your bicycle, and any injuries you sustained. Even if you feel fine, it’s wise to get a medical check-up, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. This will all be helpful, should you decide to turn to a Eugene bicycle accident attorney for your case.
Reach Out Today
Cycling can be a safe and enjoyable activity when proper precautions are taken. However, accidents can still happen, and if you find yourself in such a situation, it's important to know your rights and options. If you've been involved in a bicycle accident, don't hesitate to reach out to a skilled Eugene bicycle accident attorneysl who can help guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive the support you need. Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys would be more than happy to assist. In the meantime, stay safe on the road, and remember—your safety is always worth the extra effort!
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How Strong Law will handle you case
Gather evidence, interview witnesses, and assess the circumstances surrounding the accident to establish facts and liability.
Determine the extent of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Engage in discussions with the opposing party or insurance companies to reach a fair settlement outside of court.
If negotiations fail, proceed to court where legal arguments and evidence are presented before a judge or jury for a final decision.
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Prior to representing accident victims, Jed worked for GEICO insurance company as one of its in-house attorneys – representing the insurance companies. After learning the inner workings of insurance companies, he quit and began representing accident victims.
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Frequently asked questions
Have other questions? Get in touch with our team at info@stronglawattorneys.com
What Is the Value of My Case?
The value of an injury case depends upon many factors related to the extent of your injuries and any other losses associated with your claim. You may have medical bills, lost income, costs associated with pain and suffering, among other possible damages. To learn the possible value of your case, contact the team at Strong Law. In a free case evaluation, we’ll let you know how much your case may be worth.
What Are Your Hours?
Strong Law is open five days a week between 9am and 5pm. In addition, we offer after hours return calls, weekend calls, and online chat.
What Kinds Of Cases Are Personal Injury?
Call us to know for sure, but a good rule of thumb is when an “accident” that happened to you because of the acts of or misdeeds of another party. Examples are: Auto accidents; motorcycle accidents; semi-truck accidents; wrongful death; medical malpractice; slip, trip and fall; boating accidents, faulty equipment, nursing home abuse; and many others.
Will I Be Charged To Consult Or Talk With You?
No, not ever. Strong Law is a contingency personal injury firm offering specialized experience along with access when you need it. Our goal is to gain the best settlement and provide comfort in the process, so easy access to us is part of our best practices.
What Does Contingency Mean?
Contingency in a legal matter means an expense to the client based on the outcome of a future event or circumstance which is possible but cannot be predicted with certainty. Said another way, Strong Law gets paid only if your case settles.
Can You Give Me An Assessment Of My Case?
Absolutely. While we cannot guarantee anything, nor do we imply a settlement, our willingness to take your case (and do it on contingency) is our voice that we feel your case has strong merit. After speaking with you, we can provide a merit assessment over the phone. However, we caution that accepting your case does not promise anything, your outcome is reflected in the law firm you choose.
What Should I Do If I’m Having Problems, Like Their Insurance Company Is Calling Me?
Always secure an attorney first. If you sign up with Strong Law now, you can advise their insurance company that you have representation and give them our name and contact information. From that time forward, they should not be contacting you again; it’s the law. If you do not sign with an attorney, like Strong Law, you will need to speak with them and represent yourself to resolve your injury. We strongly urge against this; insurance companies are skilled at ensuring their best interests over yours.
What Are Common Reasons For Insurance Injury Denials?
Make sure you receive medical treatment as soon as possible after an accident, otherwise insurance may argue your pain is from an unrelated incident.Insurance companies will be going out of their way to find some proof that the accident was your fault. Don’t be intimidated.If you have preexisting medical conditions that make you more likely to suffer an injury, it is not uncommon for insurance agencies to deny claims based on this.
How Long Does A Case Take To Settle?
It depends on many factors like medical care, future needs, evidence, proof of liability, and many others. Some cases take months while others can last a couple years. Ultimately, our goal is to represent you and what is going to be best for you in the long run.
Why Can Cases Last Years?
Because the law dictates it. There are many layers to make sure the insurance companies treat you with optimal care. For example, there will be time spent for medical treatments you might need. There is time to gather the needed medical reports and discover any long term impacts this injury will have on your life today and into the future. There is time for the other side to review our demands, research, and respond as well. It can feel like a long time, but we follow the law and strategize for the best benefit to you. We are with you the whole time.
