Cycling Accident Claims And How They Happen

By Steven Harrison


One of the common complaints of authorities and citizens is that cyclists all seem to be complacent with traffic rules. As a result, they end up harming themselves and other motorists. Injuries can have very severe impacts on one's life. That is why authorities allow cyclists or their families, on their behalf, to file for cycling accident claims to get compensation.

Statistics show that most cycling accidents occur in urban areas with victims ranging from children to late adults. Males are the common casualties due to their higher preference to ride a bicycle than females. Accidents occur often in bends and intersections where other motorists emerge and collide with the bicycle riders.

It is a must for the element of negligence to be present in the circumstance before a claim can be made. There are times when cyclists really are victims of other motorists' carelessness. However, we should always remember that cyclists can also break rules. In fact, they like driving along pavements where pedestrians are walking.

There are various reasons for claims to be made. The most common one would have to be for the physical injuries incurred during the accident. It is very common for cyclists to suffer from head, limb as well as chest and abdomen injuries especially if they did not wear protective gear. If the injuries are proven to be results of the accident, compensation can be given.

His or her lawyer will have to refer him or her to doctors to examine and determine if the injuries are really resultant from the incident. Depending on the extent of the injuries, the compensation may also vary. Cyclists can also claim for property damages. If their bicycles got severely damaged, they can have it repaired as long as they can provide the right documents to support ownership for the vehicle.

There is a possibility for the bicycles to be devalued because of the repairs. This corresponding diminution can also be compensated by the authorities as well. All damaged paraphernalia such as bicycle accessories, helmets and protective clothing can also be compensated. The claimants only need to provide proofs of purchase as well as ownership.

Cyclists who get seriously injured can lose working time. Consequently, they will also lose their ability to earn money for their family. This can be made compensable too, especially if the casualty is the one primarily earning for his or her household. If the damages in the bicycle resulted to the victim opting for another mode of transportation, he can be compensated for this as well.

Any therapy or treatment necessary to continuously treat the after effects of the injuries can be made compensable if deemed just. Cyclists may need physical therapy later on to completely recover their mobility, for instance. Make sure that you have this discussed with your lawyer properly in order to get the best outcomes.

Cycling accident claims have to be done properly if the cyclists are proven to be the casualties of the incidents. There are many lawyers available to provide assistance in solving these cases. Claimants need to make sure they select the right one and that they cooperate in the right way though. But to avoid problems like these, following traffic rules is still the best solution.




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