Bicycle accidents can involve serious injuries. If you have been involved in a bike accident, it’s crucial that you hire experienced bicycle accident attorney to represent you. In fact many attorneys in your area advertising that they handle bike accidents, but not all of them are qualified.
Finding the Best Bicycle Accident Attorney
Any attorney can say they handle bicycle accidents. But not all bicycle accident attorney have the same level of experience with this particular type of accident.
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In fact the right attorney will evaluate your case, be open and honest, guide you through the process and obtain the best possible result. Here’s what to look for when looking for representation.
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In fact time to find the best bicycle accident attorney for you is worth the effort. Here are our recommendations on how to find the best bicycle accident attorney for your case.
Seek Recommendations and Referrals
Moreover the best way to find bicycle accident attorney is through local referrals. If you have worked with an attorney for a divorce, will, home purchase or other matter, ask that lawyer for a referral to bicycle accident attorney. This type of referral is generally very reliable. Check your local bar association for a referral service that can connect you with attorneys skilled in bicycle accidents. These referral programs often vet attorneys before they allow them to participate.
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Bar associations also have subject area practice committees listed on their sites where bicycle accident attorney who practice specific areas of law network. Look for the names of the present and past chairs of the personal injury or automobile accident committee. These attorneys are typically respected by their peers and experienced in this area of law.
Look for an Experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyer
You don’t want to be a learning experience for your lawyer. Instead, you want an bicycle accident attorney who has handled many bicycle accident cases. Be certain they have specific experience with bike accidents and not just car, motorcycle or pedestrian accidents. Bicycle accidents are a unique area of law.
Ask About Success Rates
Ask prospective bicycle accident attorney about their case success rate. Moreover what amounts of settlements and awards have they obtained for clients? How many cases have they settled or won in the past year? This will give you an idea of their skill and their experience.
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Look for a Contingency Contract
Bicycle accident attorney should never ask you to pay them. Reputable accident attorney take cases on a contingency basis only. If they win or settle the case, they usually receive one third of the award (but can vary by attorney). You may be asked to pay filing fees, or they may be deducted from the final award in the case. In fact make sure you have a written retainer agreement with your attorney.
Why You Need a Bicycle Accident Attorney
Injuries from bicycle accidents can be severe with significant injuries. You may be unable to work, need expensive medical care and/or suffer emotional distress. Moreover you need an bicycle accident attorney who can file your lawsuit, negotiate with the driver’s insurance company and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
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Negotiating on Your Own Is Unwise
The driver’s insurance company will likely contact you. You are free to work out an agreement on your own with them. But remember that they are professionals and insurance companies are for-profit entities. It is in their best interest to deny or negotiate down as many claims as possible. Moreover a bicycle accident attorney will represent your best interests and ensure you get what you are entitled to.
Preserve Your Legal Rights with Bicycle Accident Attorney
In fact at the time of your bicycle accident, you likely provided a statement for a police report to provide your account of what happened and a record of any damages you sustained. Since the accident, the reality of the extent of your injuries and other damages may have become more apparent.
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So get advice before you talk. Anything you say to police, investigators or insurance companies can be used against you in your case. Because of this, it is important to consult with an attorney before you do anything.
Interview Several Bicycle Accident Attorney
Moreover make appointments with three to five bicycle accident attorney. Just as you would not buy a car without test driving several models, you should not hire an bicycle accident attorney without meeting with several. In fact the time to determine if you feel comfortable with the person, if their staff is friendly and if you feel confident in their abilities.
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Find out Who Will Handle Your Case
Be sure to meet and talk to the person who will be handling your case at that firm. The person doing intake may be different. Ask them how many bicycle accident cases they personally handle per year (as opposed to how many the firm handles). Get a feel for whether you like that bicycle accident attorney or not.
Understand Communication Expectations
Ask how frequently you should expect updates about your case. Learn how quickly the office returns calls or emails. Find out if your bicycle accident attorney will be available by text or cell phone. Get the name of their secretary or paralegal so you can always reach someone even if your attorney is in court.
Learn the Timeline of Your Bicycle Accident Case
Find out how long they expect the case will take. Ask them what steps may be involved and whether they think the insurance company will settle. Ask if they think your case is one that could be quickly settled or might be protracted.
