Bicycle Accident Lawyers Chattanooga

Bicycle Accidents Overview

The most tragic type of a bicycle crash is a bike-car collision. Cyclists are completely defenseless traveling on 30-pound bikes when they’re surrounded by 3,000-pound cars and trucks racing by them. Common types of bike-car collisions that often end in tragedy include:

• Motorist entering roadway – The motorist enters the roadway from a driveway or parking spot and fails to see the cyclist until it’s too late
• Motorist failure to yield – The motorist fails to yield to a cyclist by either running a stop light/sign, or by failing to look both ways before continuing.
• Motorist turning – Motorist turns left or right directly in front of the cyclist cutting them off.
• Motorist passing cyclist – Motorist often don’t see a cyclist when passing and strikes the cyclist. The cyclist may see this before it happens, and hit something else when swerving to avoid the motorist.

Pedestrians, defective bike parts, recalled bike helmets, and other ineffective bicycle safety equipment can also cause bicycle accidents. Bike accidents can result in wrongful death or serious injuries such as broken bones, amputation, traumatic brain injury, neck, back, and spinal cord injuries.

Do Not Rely On Insurance Companies

Do not accept any claim before you speak with a Chattanooga bicycle attorney. Many large insurance companies have adopted settlement policies that encourage their adjusters to offer quick payments to persons involved in an accident. Insurance adjusters will contact you or your family shortly after an accident to try to gain your confidence. In doing so, insurance adjusters often try to present themselves as the friend of the injured person or the family of the person who was killed in an accident. The goal of such contact is to settle the case on terms as favorable as possible for the insurance company.

You Are Our Top Priority

Dennis & Winningham Law are old fashion Chattanooga bicycle lawyers who limit the number of cases we take so we can give top-flight personal service. We are not a big “settlement mill” that will merely process your case. We maintain a state-wide reputation for the care we take with each of our clients. Experience the Dennis & Winningham Law difference. Give us a call today at (423) 892-5533 or fill out our contact form.

Experience, expertise, and exceptional dedication to the needs of every client are the cornerstone of our success. Negligence causes many accidents, so it is imperative that anyone involved in an accident contact an experienced Chattanooga bicycle injury attorney. Please remember that it is vital to act swiftly after you’ve been injured. The sooner you involve a Chattanooga personal injury attorney, the better we will be able to preserve evidence, gather essential witnesses and address any other important factors.

You Deserve

• Medical reimbursement
• Payment for past and future income loss
• Full compensation for pain and suffering
• Peace of mind in knowing your financial interests are being protected

We Are There For You

• Same day, evening and weekend appointments
• Home and hospital visits for the severely injured
• Never a fee until we receive a settlement for you
• We will go to trial if a fair settlement is not obtained
• Serving Georgia and Tennessee

Typical Bicycle Accident Case Settlements

Bicycle accidents can lead to severe injuries, high medical bills, and lasting impacts on quality of life. For victims of these accidents, pursuing compensation through a settlement can help cover the financial burden and provide support during recovery. Bicycle accident settlements vary widely depending on factors like the severity of the injury, the extent of medical treatment required, and the circumstances of the accident. At Dennis & Winningham Law, we work with Chattanooga residents who have been injured in bicycle accidents, helping them understand what they may be entitled to and assisting them in seeking fair compensation.

Factors That Influence Bicycle Accident Settlements

Several key factors affect the potential settlement amount in a bicycle accident case. One of the most important is the severity of the injuries. Bicyclists are vulnerable on the road, often resulting in significant injuries such as fractures, head trauma, or spinal injuries, especially when struck by a vehicle. The more severe the injury, the higher the potential settlement, as it accounts for immediate medical bills, long-term care, and rehabilitation costs.

Another key factor is the medical expenses incurred due to the accident. This includes emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment. The total cost of medical care directly influences settlement amounts, as victims need financial support to cover both past and future expenses.

Lost wages also play a role in determining settlement values. If the injuries prevent the victim from working, either temporarily or permanently, settlements often account for lost income and diminished future earning potential. For example, a victim with a physically demanding job who suffers a debilitating injury may have grounds for a higher settlement due to the impact on their ability to return to work. A Chattanooga bicycle accident lawyer can help calculate these losses and include them in the claim.

Pain And Suffering

Beyond financial losses, bicycle accident settlements often include compensation for pain and suffering. This refers to the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the injury and can vary greatly depending on the impact of the injury on the individual’s daily life. For severe injuries that lead to lasting pain, disability, or reduced quality of life, the amount awarded for pain and suffering may be significant. This aspect of a settlement considers the overall impact on the victim’s mental health and well-being.

Average Settlement Ranges

While it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact figure for a “typical” bicycle accident settlement, cases with minor injuries might settle for a few thousand dollars to cover medical costs and minor inconveniences. In contrast, severe injury cases can lead to settlements in the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars, especially if there is permanent damage or a long recovery period. Each case is unique, and settlement amounts reflect the specific details of the accident and the losses incurred.

For Chattanooga residents, consulting with a bicycle accident lawyer can be beneficial when determining potential settlement amounts. A knowledgeable attorney can assess the details of the accident, work with medical experts, and help calculate the appropriate compensation based on all relevant factors. This process can involve negotiations with insurance companies, which typically seek to minimize payouts. Having a Chattanooga bicycle accident lawyer on your side can help ensure you’re not left with inadequate compensation.

The Importance Of Legal Support

Insurance companies often play a significant role in bicycle accident settlements, as they typically cover the costs associated with the accident. However, adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and may offer settlements that don’t fully address the victim’s needs. Having a Chattanooga bicycle accident lawyer helps level the playing field by presenting a clear and well-documented case to support fair compensation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, seeking legal advice can make a difference in your recovery. At Dennis & Winningham Law, we are dedicated to supporting our Chattanooga community and helping victims secure the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to speak with a Chattanooga bicycle accident lawyer and discuss your options for pursuing a fair settlement.

Chattanooga Bicycle Accident Infographic

Bicycle Accident FAQs

If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, it’s important to understand your rights, how to handle insurance, and when to consider legal help. The attorneys at Dennis & Winningham Law have over 75 years of combined experience representing clients in personal injury cases. Our Chattanooga, TN bicycle accident lawyer answers some common questions to guide you through the aftermath of a bicycle accident.

Who Is Usually At Fault If A Bicycle Is Involved In An Accident?

Determining fault in a bicycle accident depends on the specific circumstances of the crash. Typically, the driver of a motor vehicle may be at fault for failing to yield, running a red light, or driving recklessly. However, if the cyclist wasn’t following traffic laws, they might share in the responsibility. Liability will depend on who caused the accident, and our experienced lawyer can help investigate the case and determine liability.

How Do I Claim My Bike Accident On My Insurance?

If another vehicle caused the accident, you would file a claim through the driver’s auto insurance. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to rely on your own insurance. If you have health insurance, you can claim medical expenses through that. Additionally, if you have bicycle insurance, you can file for repairs or replacement. Make sure to gather evidence like photos and witness details when filing your claim.

What Should I Do Immediately After A Bicycle Accident?

After a bicycle accident, the first step is to check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. It’s important to report the accident to the police, especially if a vehicle was involved. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bike. Avoid admitting fault, as liability should be determined through an investigation. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s wise to seek medical attention. Finally, contact our lawyer to discuss your options for pursuing a claim.

How Can A Bicycle Accident Lawyer Help Me With My Injury Claim?

Our bicycle accident attorney can help by investigating the details of the crash to determine liability, negotiating with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement, and handling all the legal paperwork. We protect your rights and help you manage your claim. With our lawyer’s expertise, you’ll be more likely to get fair compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other damages.

What Types Of Compensation Can I Receive For A Bicycle Accident Injury?

If you’re injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Medical expenses cover both past and future treatment, while lost wages account for income you missed due to the accident. Pain and suffering compensation addresses the physical and emotional toll of your injuries. If your bike was damaged, you can seek reimbursement for repairs or replacement. Depending on the case, punitive damages may also be awarded in instances of extreme negligence.

Moving Forward: Protecting Your Rights After A Bicycle Accident

Filing a bicycle accident claim can seem overwhelming, but understanding your rights and the legal process is key. If you’re dealing with injuries, medical bills, or insurance issues, consulting with our skilled Chattanooga bicycle accident lawyer will give you the best chance at recovering damages. Our legal team has secured over $60 million in settlements for our clients and are prepared to help you with your personal injury claim. Don’t wait to take the first step toward financial justice after a bike crash. At Dennis & Winningham, there is no fee unless we win. Call now to schedule a free case evaluation and learn more about what your legal options are.

Help When Insurance Blames You For Your Bicycle Accident Injuries

Our Chattanooga, TN bicycle accident lawyer knows that being involved in a bicycle accident is already a difficult experience, and it can be even more challenging if the insurance company blames us for our injuries. At Dennis & Winningham Law, we believe that every injured person deserves fair compensation, and we’re committed to helping clients fight back against unjust claims. We have worked with over 2,000 cases and clients and have the experience needed for your case. Here’s what we should do to protect our rights and strengthen our case.

• Get Medical Attention Immediately. After a bicycle accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away, even if the injuries seem minor at first. A doctor can identify hidden injuries, and medical records will serve as critical evidence to support our claim. These records show the extent of the injuries and the treatments received, which is important when dealing with insurance companies.
• Collect Evidence at the Scene. If possible, gather as much evidence from the accident scene as we can. Take photos of the location, damage to the bicycle, road conditions, traffic signals, and any obstacles. Also, get contact information from any witnesses. This information can help support our version of events and show what happened during the accident.
• Document Your Injuries and Treatment. Our Chattanooga bicycle accident lawyer encourages you to keep detailed records of all injuries and treatments. Include medical appointments, therapy sessions, and any notes from doctors. If there are visible injuries, take photos as they heal. These documents and photos provide clear evidence of the physical impact of the accident and the ongoing medical treatment required.
• Notify Your Insurance Company. Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate and honest information about what happened. Even if the insurance company blames us for the accident, it’s important to follow proper reporting procedures and meet any deadlines they set.
• Don’t Accept the Initial Settlement Offer. Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers to close a claim quickly and save money. These offers are usually lower than what’s needed to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. We should never accept an offer without first discussing it with a lawyer who can assess whether it fully covers our losses.
• Consult with a Lawyer. It’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer who knows how to handle bicycle accident claims. Our lawyer at Dennis & Winningham Law will help gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and represent us in discussions or court if needed. Having someone on our side who understands the legal process increases our chances of receiving fair compensation.
• Review Witness Statements. Witness statements can be invaluable in supporting our case. People who saw the accident can provide unbiased accounts of what happened and who may have been at fault. We should gather contact information from witnesses and share it with our lawyer so they can follow up for a formal statement if necessary.
• Examine Traffic Laws and Regulations. Bicyclists have rights on the road, just like motorists do. Reviewing local traffic laws and regulations can clarify what legal protections apply to us as cyclists. In many cases, an insurance company’s blame may be based on misunderstandings of these laws, which we can address with proper legal research and support.
• Build a Strong Settlement Demand. With the help of our lawyer, we will put together a settlement demand that includes all damages. This includes medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and any long-term impacts of the injuries. A well-documented demand helps make a stronger case and demonstrates the financial losses incurred due to the accident.
• Be Prepared for Negotiations or Trial. Sometimes, the insurance company may refuse to settle and push the case to trial. In these situations, we must be ready to present our evidence in court. A lawyer at Dennis & Winningham Law will advocate for our interests, presenting witness testimony, photos, and medical records to seek a favorable outcome.

Call Our Firm For Support

If the insurance company is trying to blame us for a bicycle accident, we won’t face it alone. At Dennis & Winningham Law, we’re committed to fighting for fair compensation and protecting our rights. Remember, when you work with us there is no fee until we win. Contact our bicycle accident lawyer in Chattanooga today for a consultation, and let’s get to work building a strong case to get the compensation you deserve.