If you were hurt by a careless or reckless driver while riding your bicycle in Prattville, AL, you have legal options for pursuing compensation and recovering the money you need to pay for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. A Prattville bicycle accident attorney knows how to investigate and develop these cases and hold the at-fault driver legally responsible.
Our Prattville personal injury lawyer from the Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown has over 30 years of experience handling injury cases and fighting for compensation for our clients. We are here to help you after your accident and injuries. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation with our team.
Our Prattville Bicycle Collision Lawyer Can Determine the Cause of Your Crash
When an injured bicyclist trusts our accident attorney with their case, our team investigates what happened and determines the role each party played in the collision. Some of the most common incidents we see involving motor vehicles versus bicycles occur because:
- A driver fails to yield when turning
- A parked driver opens their door into the bicycle lane
- A driver does not give a bicyclist enough room when passing
We will gather all the evidence available to determine what happened and develop a compelling case to show the driver is at fault in the crash. Having strong support for our insurance claim increases the likelihood of settling the case or supports our case if we need to go to trial to fight for the money our client deserves.
Liability in Bicycle Accident Cases
Liability in a bicycle versus car collisions works similarly to Prattville pedestrian accident cases. The driver is often liable because state and local laws protect bicyclists under many circumstances where cyclists and drivers might need to interact, such as at intersections and when passing.
Negligence is almost always present in these crash cases. When we investigate the collision, we often find evidence to show that:
- The at-fault driver owed our client a duty of care
- They breached that duty
- That breach caused the crash, and
- Our client suffered harm as a result
We must document these four elements of negligence to hold the driver legally accountable and recover compensation.
Hit Cyclists Hit Often Suffer Serious Injuries in Prattville, AL
Cyclists are vulnerable to catastrophic injuries when hit by motor vehicles, especially at increased speeds. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the risk of a bicycle vs. car accident being fatal increases from 8 percent at 31 miles per hour to 50 percent when the speed of the motorist is 47 miles per hour or greater.
Some of the serious injuries common in bicycle accidents include:
- Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries
- Head, face, and brain injuries
- Burns and scarring, including road rash
- Serious fractures
- Crush injuries
- Internal injuries
- Amputations
Many victims hurt in a bicycle accident receive care at Prattville Baptist Hospital, the primary hospital for accidents in both Autauga and Elmore counties. However, victims with the most serious injuries often require ambulance or medevac transportation to Baptist Medical Center South, a Level II trauma center in Montgomery.
The cost of medical care can quickly reach levels that can cause extreme financial stress for victims and their families. We strongly believe this is not something victims should worry about during this difficult time. Healing should be their paramount focus. When you hire our team, you get the peace of mind to focus on your treatment and recovery. Let us handle the rest.
Why Trust Our Firm With Your Prattville Bicycle Accident Case?
At the Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown, every client receives focused, personalized care. Attorney Dwayne Brown has fought for and recovered more than $100 million in settlements and verdicts, helping his clients rebuild their lives. He is rated by Super Lawyers and a member of the National Trial Lawyers Top 100.
Attorney Brown truly believes it is not about the lawyer; it’s about the client. He works to empower clients to make informed decisions about their cases. Our legal team takes on only a select number of clients, frequently checking in on their health and well-being. From recommending physicians and psychologists to navigating settlements, our team ensures clients feel heard and supported every step of the way.
Our settlements and verdicts reveal a long history of fighting for maximum compensation for every client. Our testimonials from previous clients also reflect how we treat injured victims who come to us for help. Consider this review:
“Attorney Brown is simply the best! Very communicative, hardworking and he puts his clients first. I’m a stickler when it comes to customer service, and I got nothing but first-class service!” — K.G.
We work based on contingency, never asking our clients to pay for our fees or costs up front. We know this is a stressful time, and we do not believe hiring an attorney should add to your financial worry. Contact us today to learn more.
What Damages Will a Prattville Bicycle Collision Lawyer Pursue in My Case?
Our attorney will pursue damages based on your unique expenses and losses. This requires us to investigate, gather, and document your bills, receipts, and future care needs. We will work with experts when necessary to understand how your injuries will continue to affect your life, including your ongoing care and support needs.
The types of damages often recoverable in bicycle accident cases include:
- Medical Care: Medical bills and related costs, including future care expenses
- Lost Income: Missed pay and reduced earning ability if there are lasting injuries
- Property Damages: Repair or replacement of your bicycle and other damaged personal property
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: Related expenses ranging from parking at the hospital to modifying your home for new mobility concerns
- Non-Economic Damages: Physical and psychological pain and suffering and other intangible losses experienced because of the accident
However, there are certain steps you should take to protect your rights to these damages. First and foremost is your health and safety. If you have been in a bicycle accident, make sure you are in no danger of further harm. Check your injuries and call 9-1-1. Let the operator know where you are and your condition.
If your injuries permit, start collecting what evidence you can. Take pictures and videos of the accident scene. Write down what you remember, and exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. When you speak to anyone about the accident, just stick to the facts. Don’t make accusations or assumptions, and do not admit fault.
After the accident, see a doctor as soon as possible. Plus, follow their treatment plan and don’t skip any appointments. Then, consider talking with a Prattville bicycle accident lawyer.
When Should You Call a Prattville Bicycle Accident Lawyer About Your Case?
Alabama has a statute of limitations for suing based on a bicycle accident. Under AL Code § 6-2-38 for personal injury, you typically have two years to file a lawsuit in either the Autauga or Elmore County courthouse.
It is important to act quickly after a crash to ensure your rights are protected, and our attorney can preserve as much evidence as possible. Having our Prattville attorney on your side from the start will offer peace of mind and allow you to focus on healing and rehabilitation.
Talk to our Prattville Bicycle Accident Team for Free
The Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown will review your Alabama bicycle accident case with you for free. Learn how our Prattville bicycle accident attorney can help you during this free, confidential consultation with our team.
Contact us today to learn more.
