Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accidents: Legal Recourse for Victims
Cyclists on any road are far more vulnerable than motorists, even when protective equipment is worn and bike lanes are provided. The term “hit-and-run” describes a motor accident in which the vehicle involved does not stop but drives away after the collision. When a “hit-and-run” involves a bicyclist, the injuries can be devastating or even fatal.
As these injuries become more and more prevalent in Long Beach news reports, you may be asking yourself why drivers flee the scene. Experience has found drivers who flee are usually afraid of the consequences if they face law enforcement. They could be uninsured and have no means to pay for the injuries they caused. They could also be concerned about being caught for some other crime, such as driving under the influence, being in the country illegally, driving a vehicle they do not own, or even something as simple as having an expired driver’s license.
Immediate Steps To Take After Experiencing a Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle accident of any kind, there are important steps to take right away:
- Ensure your safety and seek medical attention. Above all, get the medical care you need as rapidly as possible. Even if you can stand or walk after a collision, unseen injuries like fractures or a concussion should be located and treated by a professional before they have time to worsen. Your injuries will also need to be documented to help win your case.
- Gather information at the scene. If you or a fellow rider on the scene are not too severely injured, try to collect as many details about the incident as possible. Note down any witnesses and gather their contact information.
- Report the incident to law enforcement. If not done at the accident scene, as soon as you can, file a police report with the available information. Give a detailed account of the incident and anything you remember about the hit-and-run vehicle.
- Preserve evidence. Document any damage to your bicycle and personal belongings. Keep photographs of the accident scene and any relevant evidence, or ask another who was present and took photos to share them with you.
Legal Recourse for Long Beach Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accidents
When you are injured in a hit-and-run bicycle accident in California, you may be able to receive compensation from the insurance companies involved, either that of the responsible party or your own. If the driver who hit you is uninsured or underinsured (a common reason for drivers to flee the accident scene), you may be covered by Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UMC).
Most Californians with automotive insurance have UMC included in their plan; you must sign a special waiver if you insist you do not want this coverage. This coverage can be crucial for hit-and-run victims as it allows their medical expenses and other accident bills to be covered by their insurance when the other party cannot be identified or was driving without valid insurance.
If you don’t receive a fair offer, your Long Beach hit-and-run bicycle accident lawyer can file a lawsuit that demands the compensation you deserve and fight for your rights in court if necessary.
Types of Compensation Available to Bicycle Accident Victims
If you have been injured in a hit-and-run bicycle accident, an experienced Long Beach personal injury attorney can help you pursue damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost past or future wages
- Physical pain
- Mental anguish and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Permanent loss of limb
- Loss of life enjoyment
- Loss of consortium
How We Can Help
Pursuing a personal injury claim against the responsible party in a hit-and-run bicycle accident case can be very challenging without the assistance of an experienced Long Beach attorney. The Law Firm of Joseph H. Low IV stands ready to help you navigate the complex legal system during this difficult time.
As an experienced cyclist and accomplished personal injury lawyer, Joseph Low provides clients with unparalleled insight, support, and loyalty. He is prepared to utilize every resource, including medical experts and accident reconstruction specialists, to present the most compelling case on your behalf.
Give us a call at (562) 901-0840 for a complimentary consultation, and let’s get started on your case today.