Even as the overall number of traffic crashes decreased in 2020, bicycle fatalities significantly increased from the previous year. 82 bicyclists died in 2020, and thousands were injured, which is just unacceptable. If you get into a bicycle crash, the steps you take after the accident will be very crucial to ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Once you have sought medical treatment for the injuries you suffered in the bike accident and learned what you could about the accident and the negligent motorist that injured you, you must determine whom you could seek compensation from. If you haven’t consulted with a Collin County, TX, bicycle accident attorney yet, here’s some basic information on your recovery options.
Determine Who Should Be Held Liable for Your Losses
If you get into a bicycle accident in Texas, the at-fault driver or motorist that caused the accident must cover all your losses and damages. This basically means that you’ll be recovering compensation from one of these sources:
- The at-fault motorist’s insurance provider
- The auto insurance of the vehicle owner, if the driver doesn’t own the vehicle.
- The insurance coverage of the driver’s employer, if you were struck by a work vehicle.
- If applicable, your own health insurance, medical benefits, uninsured motorist coverage, or underinsured motorist coverage.
The main thing to keep in mind is that regardless of which auto insurance coverage may apply to your claim is that you will be dealing with the insurer’s insurance claims adjuster.
Deal with The Insurance Provider
Expect the insurance provider of the at-fault driver to contact you right away following the bicycle accident with a low settlement offer. But keep in mind that you shouldn’t discuss the settlement or negotiate with the insurance claims adjuster until you’ve spoken with a County Collin, TX, bicycle accident attorney because you must be 100% sure of the real value of your claim.
Likewise, remember that insurance companies are not above using things you say to their adjusters against you, either to downplay your injuries, reduce your claim, or deny it altogether. In some cases, all it takes is a letter from or discussion with a lawyer for the insurer to settle a claim because being faced with a lawsuit is the last thing that they want.
It’s also vital to note that if the bicycle accident was a hit and run or the driver is underinsured, and you have the necessary insurance policy to cover your losses, you shouldn’t assume that your own insurance provider would treat your claim fairly. Such claims must be handled according to very specific policy rules and could become highly contentious when you have severe injuries, and consequently, are seeking a huge settlement.
Talk to a Collin County, TX, Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
Our skilled Collin County, TX, bicycle accident attorney can help you understand your claim better and determine the most suitable legal options for your specific case. Reach out to The Law Office of Joel M. Vecchio, P.C., and schedule your free case evaluation online or by calling 972-380-4444.
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