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Fayetteville Bicycle Accident Lawyer

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Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney, PLLC

Fayetteville Bicycle Accident Attorney

A bicycle can be a healthy and inexpensive mode of transportation for Fayetteville residents. The city has been lauded for being a green city with a commitment to sustainability, and bicycling is a component of that. However, when drivers fail to pay attention to cyclists, accidents may ensue. If this happens to you, it may be time to hire a Fayetteville, AR bicycle accident lawyer.

You deserve an experienced lawyer who provides professional, personalized service. Geoffrey D. Kearney is a lawyer who offers this and has experience in both civil, criminal, and personal injury litigation. With his impressive educational background as a Harvard graduate and his experience as a clerk for several judges, he has a deep understanding of the law and can effectively apply his knowledge and authority to your case.

Bicycle Accidents in Fayetteville, AK

Fayetteville has been recognized as a gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community, but bicycle accidents are still an issue. In 2021, there were 693 traffic-related fatalities in Fayetteville, and 89 of them were either pedestrian or bicycle accident cases.

Bicycle accidents can occur whether or not another vehicle is involved. However, when a bicycle is struck by another vehicle, the resulting injuries may be more severe. Many accidents in Fayetteville occur in high-traffic and high-speed areas, such as College Ave and the intersection of Maple St. and Garland, and they occur for a number of reasons.

Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include, but are not limited to:

  • Reckless driving
  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving
  • Unsafe road conditions
  • Unlawful lane changes
  • Driving too close
  • Driving under the influence
inpg Geoffrey D. Kearney
Fayetteville Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Call Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney, PLLC today at 870-376-3068 for your Free Consultation!

What to Do if I Am in a Bicycle Accident?

If you are in a bicycle accident, the first thing you should do is get to safety and check for serious injuries. Next, you should contact the police, who will contact emergency medical services to determine if you should go to the hospital. Your health and safety are the priority, so if you need to seek medical treatment, do it immediately.

After receiving medical treatment, it is wise to contact a bike accident attorney who can help you navigate the claims process. They will investigate how the accident happened, the extent of your injuries, your pain levels, and who was at fault. This is why it is important to gather all evidence that can help your case, including medical bills, reports, documentation, photographs, and eyewitness testimony, if possible.

Filing an Insurance Claim

Pursuing a Fayetteville bicycle accident claim consists of several moving parts. To start, you must file a claim with the insurance company. You have three years to file a claim in Arkansas per their statute of limitations laws for personal injuries. Once you make a claim, the insurance company has 45 days to investigate your case.

You can recover both economic and non-economic damages if you are in a bicycle accident.

Specifically, you can expect to receive compensation that covers:

  • Health and medical bills
  • Loss of income
  • Legal fees
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering

How Do I Know When to Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer?

Arkansas operates under a modified comparative fault or negligence system. This means it is presumed that both parties assume at least some fault for their accidents, and they should be compensated at an amount proportional to their level of fault. Generally, if you are less than 50% at fault, you can recover some damages, but if you are 50% or more at fault, you may not recover anything at all.

A strong, experienced, and skilled bike accident attorney can advocate for you when it comes to determining fault, as well as negotiate for a maximized settlement. Moreover, if your insurance company denies your claim, they can represent you in civil court to help you recover damages. While no amount of money can compensate for the suffering you may endure from your accident, it can help you with expenses related to your accident and help you obtain a better quality of life.

FAQs

Q: How Much Compensation for a Cycling Accident?

A: How much compensation you can win for a cycling accident varies. It is difficult to determine exactly how much you can obtain because each case is different. However, there are certain factors that play a part in what you may receive, including the severity of the accident, the extent of your injuries, the level of property damage, and your lawyer’s ability to negotiate a settlement.

Q: Who Is Usually at Fault if a Bicycle Is Involved in an Accident?

A: Generally, other drivers are at fault if a bicycle is involved in an accident. While there are cases where cyclists ignore traffic laws, many of these accidents are due to negligent, reckless, unlawful, or careless driving. Examples include speeding, unlawful lane changes, driving in bike lanes, distracted driving, or impaired driving.

Q: Can I Sue Someone for Hitting Me on My Bike?

A: Yes, you can file a claim against someone who hits you on your bike. It is encouraged to hire a lawyer to help with this process because they generally have the skills, experience, and knowledge regarding insurance claims negotiations, laws, and the ability to represent you in court if necessary. Typically, the first step is to file an insurance claim, and if it is denied or you are dissatisfied, you can take legal action.

Q: What Happens if You Accidentally Hit a Cyclist?

A: If you accidentally hit a cyclist, you may be held liable. Depending on your level of fault, you may have to cover damages incurred by the victim. In Arkansas, it is assumed that both parties are responsible or are at fault for at least some of the accident, but that exact level must be investigated and determined by a judge, jury, or the claims adjuster.

Contact Us Today for a Consultation

Being involved in a bicycle accident can be a scary experience. If you sustain serious injuries, miss work, or experience pain and suffering, your stress may be amplified. The legal team at The Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney, PLLC, is available to assist you with your case and help you reach a reasonable settlement. Do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation.

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