Bicycle Accidents in Downey
More people are turning to bikes as an alternative form of transportation to get around town. Bikes are also being used to add more activity to their lives to be healthier. Unfortunately, with more and more bikes and riders trying to share the road with motor vehicles is it highly likely that there will be some sort of negative altercation or even very serious crash. An experienced Downey bike accident lawyer can help.
Like most areas, in Downey, CA., the bike riders and motor vehicles must share the same roadway except for those areas that happen to have dedicated bike paths or even bike lanes. This mainly because in most cities and towns across the United States it is not legal to ride a bike on the sidewalk.
Safety first to avoid injury
It is necessary to take care of your own safety as much as possible as it not possible to completely avoid all accidents or accidental falls. With that in mind, most safety experts recommend that every rider wear personal safety protective gear that is designed to protect all the major areas of your body from serious injury. Below is a list of the most frequently recommended safety equipment.
Personal and Bike Safety Equipment
Personal Equipment:
- Helmet
- Gloves
- Elbow Pads
- Knee Pads
- Long pants, made from sturdy material
- Long sleeve shirt
- Full body padding in certain circumstances
Bike Equipment:
- Flags
- Active Lights
- Reflective Material
- Toes Clips, spiked pedals
What to do in case you are in an accident on your bike?
If you are involved in an accident with a motor vehicle, you should know exactly what to do. Remember that even if you are wearing any or all the above-listed safety gear there is no way of preventing every injury that is possible from this type of accident. You really need to know everything that is necessary for you to do to get the best resolution to your situation. Like any vehicle accident, if you can function without assistance you need to be sure to exchange information with the other person involved. If you need medical care, go to the ER and document everything. This will help both with your physical recovery as well as serve as critical evidence of your injuries. Next, you should contact an attorney to discuss your case. A qualified attorney will help you navigate the legal issues surrounding your case. They will help secure a copy of the police report as well as speak with the insurance company on your behalf.
Choosing the right attorney after your Bicycle Accident
When it comes to seeking out the advice or hiring an attorney for any type of personal injury it is very important that you find one that you are comfortable with. You must be your own advocate and first and foremost you must choose an attorney that you fully trust that will have your best interest at heart.
The next thing is to look for someone who specializes in personal injury and has the expertise in bicycle accidents. These attorneys will know exactly how to prepare your specific type of case and be able to represent you in court. Every type of personal injury is unique and presents special circumstances and a bicycle accident is no different. You need to be sure that you choose an attorney that has a history of positive results in court.
Having the right attorney will be the difference between a good outcome in court and a very bad one. They will be able to secure the best possible out of court settlement, if possible, but if it goes to court, they will represent your interest to the best of their ability.
