King of Prussia Bicycle Accident Attorney

Experienced Lawyer for Bicycle Accidents Based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania

When a car hits a bicycle, the negligent driver should be held responsible for the cyclist's damages. Unfortunately, bicyclists in these cases have to contend with the complexities of filing an injury claim, which involves dealing with the driver's insurance company. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash with a vehicle, a King of Prussia bicycle accident attorney can help you seek a remedy for your losses.

At Neuwirth Law Office, LLC, we fight to hold careless drivers accountable for the harm they cause. With over 20 years of litigation experience, Attorney Andrew Neuwirth is ready to take an aggressive stance in negotiations with the insurance company and, when needed, represent you at trial.

Determining Fault for a Bicycle Accident in King of Prussia

Bicycle accidents can happen in a variety of ways, and figuring out who was at fault often depends on the specific circumstances of the crash. A driver who fails to check for cyclists before opening a car door, turning at an intersection, or changing lanes can be held responsible for the resulting collision. Drivers who follow too closely, pass without leaving enough room, or ignore a cyclist's right of way can also share fault.

In some cases, road conditions or poor infrastructure can contribute to a crash. A pothole, uneven pavement, or a missing bike lane marking may point to liability on the part of a government agency responsible for maintaining the road. A defective bicycle part, such as faulty brakes, could also make a manufacturer partially responsible. Determining fault often requires a careful look at the police report, witness accounts, and any available video footage from nearby cameras.

Valuing a Bicycle Accident Claim

Bicycle accidents can cause serious injuries, since a rider has little protection compared to someone inside a vehicle. Several types of losses are typically factored into the value of a bicycle accident claim, including:

  • Medical expenses: Costs for emergency treatment, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, and any future care related to your injuries
  • Lost income: Wages lost while recovering, along with any decrease to earning capacity if your injuries limit your ability to earn an income going forward
  • Property damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle and any damaged gear, such as a helmet
  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical agony and emotional turmoil caused by the accident
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for the impact your injuries have had on activities you once enjoyed

Every case is different, and the true value of a claim depends on the severity of your injuries and how they have changed your daily life.

How to Protect Your Bicycle Accident Claim

Seeking medical attention right away is one of the most important steps you can take, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Prompt treatment creates a clear record connecting your injuries to the accident, which can be important later if the insurance company questions the extent of your harm.

Take photographs of the scene, your bicycle, and any visible injuries as soon as possible after the crash. Gather contact information from witnesses, and avoid discussing fault with the other driver. Be cautious about speaking with an insurance adjuster before you understand the full extent of your injuries, since early statements can sometimes be used against you later in the claims process.

Contact a King of Prussia, PA Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Sharing the road with cars puts cyclists at a real disadvantage when a driver makes a careless mistake. At Neuwirth Law Office, LLC, we dig into every detail of how the crash happened to build the strongest possible case on your behalf. Call 215-259-3687 or contact our King of Prussia bicycle accident attorney to set up a free consultation.