Albuquerque Bike Accident Attorney

Being involved in a bicycle accident can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims with physical, emotional, and financial damages. Bicycle accident cases are unique from other personal injury cases due to the lack of protection that cyclists have against vehicles on the road. While some accidents are unavoidable, it is important to understand liability and damages that can come from a bicycle accident so you can protect yourself if such an event does occur. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, contact our Albuquerque bike accident lawyers for a free consultation.

How an Albuquerque Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

An Albuquerque bicycle accident lawyer can be an invaluable resource in the following ways:

Legal Knowledge

Bicycle accident attorneys are well-versed in personal injury law and understand the relevant laws, regulations, and legal procedures that apply to your situation.

Resources

A lawyer has the resources to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the accident to determine which parties are liable. They will gather evidence, interview witnesses, review police reports, and collect any other pertinent information to build a strong case.

Assessing Damages

Your lawyer will help you assess the full extent of your damages to ensure you seek compensation that fully covers your losses. This may include medical costs and property damage. 

Negotiations

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often try to minimize payouts to protect their bottom line. Your lawyer will handle all communications and negotiations on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.

Trial Experience

If negotiations are unsuccessful, your bicycle accident lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. Having a lawyer with trial experience advocate for your rights and compensation can dramatically increase the odds of a favorable outcome. 

Peace of Mind

Having a knowledgeable lawyer on your side can provide peace of mind, knowing that a legal professional is handling your case and fighting for your best interests while you recover. 

Bicycle Accident Liability in Albuquerque

When a bicycle accident occurs, it is important to determine who is at fault in order to establish liability. The following parties are most commonly responsible in bicycle accidents: 

A Careless Driver

When a careless driver causes a car accident, they are typically liable for damages, including physical, emotional, and financial losses. For example, if a distracted driver runs a red light and collides with a cyclist, they could be responsible for the medical bills of the cyclist as well as any repairs that need to be made to their bike, at the very least. 

Government/Municipality

When infrastructure is inadequate or outdated, it can lead to an increased risk of accidents. The government may therefore be held liable if it fails to maintain safe roads. For example, if potholes on a road lead to an accident that results in serious injury or wrongful death, the government may be required to pay compensation. 

Bicycle or Part Manufacturer

In some cases, manufacturers may also be held liable for bicycle accidents if a product defect caused the collision. For example, the brakes were defective and caused the accident. 

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in New Mexico

Cycling can be a joyful and freeing experience, but it also carries risks. Common causes of bicycle accidents include careless drivers, inadequate infrastructure, and poor visibility. 

To stay safe on the roads, cyclists need to be aware of their surroundings at all times and take extra steps to protect themselves from common hazards, such as distracted driving or wet roads. By understanding what can cause an accident and taking proactive measures, cyclists can reduce their chances of experiencing a traumatic event while riding.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, it is crucial to take the following steps to protect your well-being: 

• Move to Safety: If possible, move yourself and your bicycle to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further accidents or injuries.
• Contact the Police: Call 911 or the local law enforcement number to report the accident, even if it seems minor. An official police report can be essential for insurance claims and legal purposes.
• Exchange Information: Obtain the names, contact information, and insurance details of the driver involved in the accident. Also, collect contact information from any witnesses present at the scene.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your bicycle, the vehicle involved, and any visible injuries you sustained. These photos can serve as valuable evidence later on.
• Don’t Discuss Fault: Avoid apologizing or discussing fault at the scene, as this may negatively impact any legal claims you may pursue.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you do not think your injuries are severe, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible after leaving the scene. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical evaluation will help create a link between injuries and the accident.
• Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer about the accident promptly. Stick to the facts and provide the necessary details without accepting liability.
• Preserve Evidence: Keep all relevant documents and evidence related to the accident, such as medical records, receipts for medical expenses, and any communication with insurance companies.
• Consult an Albuquerque Bicycle Accident Attorney: They can help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the process of pursuing compensation.

Why Choose Davis Kelin Law Firm for Your Albuquerque Bike Accident Claim

When it comes to finding the right law firm, experience is key. You should work with Davis Kelin because:

• With almost two decades of experience, our firm has the knowledge and expertise to handle any bike accident issue. 
• Our Albuquerque personal injury attorneys are highly selective when it comes to taking on cases, so you can be sure that we will only take your case if we think we can help you. Our meticulous standards for accepting a case mean that you can trust that your case is being taken seriously
• Our team of successful trial lawyers has over 50 years of combined experience. We have handled all types of personal injury claims throughout the years.

If you need help with a bicycle accident claim, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a free consultation.