New Jersey Bicycle Accident Attorney
As our trusted New Jersey bicycle accident attorney knows, insurance agents will try to get you talking as soon as possible following any kind of accident. If you were riding your bike and a car swerved out and hit you, you may think this claim will be no problem. How could anyone argue against the idea that a big, heavy car caused an accident that resulted in you becoming injured? Insurance agents were trained to argue every point to ensure they pay out as little as possible. When you were injured in a bicycle accident, you should not think this will be so simple that it is unnecessary to hire an attorney. Instead, call our office to see how we can help you get through this bicycle accident claim.
An insurance agent called asking how I’m doing. Now what?
This is a popular tactic that many insurance agents use when speaking with accident victims. The insurance agent comes across as caring, sympathetic, and understanding. In doing so, they create an environment that makes it feel safe for you to open up to them and talk about what happened. They will likely also tell you that they are going to record the conversation and it may feel like more of an obligation than a request.
As a wise New Jersey bicycle accident attorney understands, insurance agents are there to get as much information out of you as you will give them. It is true that insurance companies need basic information to confirm that you were there and involved in the accident, but you are not required to tell them where you were going, whether you were in a hurry, how your injuries are healing, or whether you have been cleared to return to work or other activities. If insurance agents want to know this information, they can speak with your attorney and your attorney will determine whether it is necessary to share.
What should I say when they call?
When they inevitably call while your attorney is not around, there are a few things your attorney recommends doing and saying:
- Ask for their information. It is important to get their name, the company they are with, and what position they hold.
- Do stay calm. Just because you should share limited information with them does not mean you should not remain calm and professional while speaking with them.
- Do avoid the blame game. You are filing a claim against the person you believe is responsible already, you do not need to go into detail with the insurance agent about why they are the liable party. Leave that to your attorney.
- Do have them call your attorney. You’re not required to sit there answering their questions. Instead, politely tell them to get in contact with your attorney and end the conversation as quickly as possible.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you were injured in a bicycle accident. Call the Law Offices of David A. DiBrigida to speak with our New Jersey bicycle accident attorney now.
What should I do if I’m involved in a bicycle accident in New Jersey?
Alongside contacting a NJ bicycle accident attorney, there are a few things you shoul do following a bicycle accident:
- Seek medical attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if you don’t have visible injuries, it’s important to get a medical evaluation to rule out any internal injuries or delayed symptoms.
- Report the accident: Contact the local law enforcement agency and report the accident. This will create an official record of the incident, which can be valuable for insurance purposes and potential legal action.
- Gather evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible at the scene of the accident. Take photographs of the accident scene, including any damages to your bicycle and the vehicle involved. If there are any witnesses, gather their contact information.
- Preserve evidence: Preserve any physical evidence related to the accident, such as your damaged bicycle or torn clothing. These items can be crucial for establishing liability and proving your case.
How can a bicycle accident attorney help me in New Jersey?
A bicycle accident attorney specializes in handling cases related to bicycle accidents. They can provide valuable assistance, including:
- Legal expertise: A knowledgeable attorney understands the intricacies of bicycle accident laws in New Jersey. They can navigate through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected.
- Investigation: Attorneys have the resources to thoroughly investigate your case. They can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident scene if necessary.
- Insurance negotiations: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. An attorney can handle all communication with the insurance company on your behalf and work to negotiate a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other damages.
- Litigation representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your attorney can represent you in court. They will build a strong case, present evidence, and advocate for your rights before a judge or jury.
- Peace of mind: Hiring a bicycle accident attorney allows you to focus on your recovery while knowing that your legal matters are in capable hands. They will handle all the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, it’s important to be aware of any statute of limitations. Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including bicycle accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to consult with a bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure that you meet all necessary deadlines and preserve your right to pursue a claim.
What damages can I recover in a bicycle accident claim in New Jersey?
Following a bicycle accident, you may qualify for the following damages:
- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of past and future medical treatments, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, and rehabilitation.
- Property damage: You can seek compensation for the repair or replacement of your damaged bicycle and other personal property.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be eligible to recover lost wages. This includes both the income you lost during your recovery period and any potential future loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Bicycle accident victims often endure physical pain, emotional distress, and a diminished quality of life. Compensation for these non-economic damages can be pursued.
- Punitive damages: In rare cases where the at-fault party’s behavior was particularly reckless or malicious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer.
How much does it cost to hire a bicycle accident attorney in New Jersey?
The cost of hiring a bicycle accident attorney in new Jersey can vary, but many work off of a contingency fee. The attorney’s fee is typically a percentage of the amount recovered, and it is agreed upon in advance. This arrangement allows individuals who may not have the financial means to afford an attorney upfront to access quality legal representation. During the initial consultation, it’s important to discuss the fee structure and any potential additional costs, such as court fees or expert witness fees, to ensure transparency and avoid surprises later on.
When you need or a loved one needs a New Jersey bicycle accident attorney, our team at the Law Offices of David A. DiBrigida can point you in the right direction!
