When riding your bicycle in Sparks, you expect to be safe if you are following the laws. This is not always the case, and sometimes the negligence of someone else can cause you to get hurt. If this happens to you, a bicycle accident lawyer in Sparks can work with you to get compensation for your injuries.
At Shook & Stone, we understand the pain that can result from a bicycle accident. We have helped our clients recover over $1 billion in damages, and we will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. After an accident, you’ll want a Sparks personal injury lawyer on your side.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Sparks
After a bicycle accident, you may be in shock, and emotions may run high. There are a few steps you can take to help protect your rights and help you get the highest possible compensation:
- Move off the road and out of the way of any other vehicles if possible
- Call 911 to get medical attention and law enforcement involved as soon as possible, even if injuries seem minor
- Take photos and videos of the scene
- Gather contact information for the driver, along with any witnesses who may have seen the accident
- Avoid speaking to any insurance adjusters without representation
- Contact a Sparks bicycle accident attorney to get further guidance on what steps to take next.
After an accident, the top priority is ensuring your safety and the safety of those around you. After you are sure that everyone is out of immediate danger, you can begin the steps to building your case and getting the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Liability After a Bicycle Accident
After you’ve been involved in a bike accident, a key piece of your case is determining who is liable. Nevada abides by a modified comparative negligence rule (NRS 41.141). This means that so long as you are 50% or less responsible, you may still be able to recover damages, minus your percentage of responsibility.
Several parties may be potentially liable after an accident. Some examples may include the driver of a motor vehicle, property owners, cities and municipalities, and manufacturers of cars or bicycles. Drivers may be careless on the road, while municipalities may not have properly maintained the area where the accident occurred.
Whenever someone’s negligence results in an injury, whether intentional or not, they may be held responsible and become financially liable. If you were injured on someone else’s property, speaking to a Sparks premises liability lawyer may help build your case.
Having a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Sparks Can Strengthen Your Case
The legal system can be complicated to navigate. If you are not experienced, you may miss a deadline, file paperwork incorrectly, or miss pertinent evidence in your case.
Some items your Sparks bicycle accident lawyer can help with may include:
- Filing the necessary paperwork by the proper deadline
- Bringing in experts such as accident reconstructionists
- Speaking to insurance adjusters on your behalf
- Gathering evidence, such as police and medical reports
- Talking with witnesses and obtaining their statements
- Representing you in court if necessary
After an accident, your primary concern should be recovery. At Shook & Stone, we will handle the legal side so that you can focus on your healing.
Free Consultation We’ll help you win the benefits you need to get your life back.
Time is Limited to File Your Case
In Nevada, you have two years from the date of your bicycle accident to file a claim per the statute of limitations (NRS 11.190). This means that after two years, you are time-barred, and you can no longer sue for damages.
There are exceptions to this rule. Examples include if a minor was the injured party, then the clock starts on their 18th birthday. There are also exceptions for individuals who become legally incapacitated. Then the time begins once they regain legal capacity.
In the tragic event that someone dies from their injuries after a bicycle accident, the time begins from the date of their death. If a family member was killed in a bicycle accident, a Sparks wrongful death lawyer can work with you to recover damages for your terrible loss.
Common Injuries After a Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle accident, injuries can range from minor to severe. Even while wearing a helmet, you could have lifelong effects. The severity of these injuries can play a part when determining how much you are entitled to in damages. Potential injuries can include:
- Concussion
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage
- Paralysis
- Broken bones
- Abrasions
- Soft tissue damage
- Disfigurement
- Internal injuries
Regardless of how you feel immediately after the accident, it is vital to seek a swift medical evaluation. Not only can it protect your health, as not all injuries are immediately visible, but it also helps build your case by showing that you did not dismiss a potential injury.
Recoverable Damages May Cover More Than Just Medical Bills
A common source of financial strain after an injury is the cost associated with your physical injuries. This can be ambulance rides, hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and more. However, there are other types of damages you may be entitled to.
A bicycle accident can be physically debilitating. You may not be able to work while recovering, whether it’s because you are in the hospital or your injuries prevent you from completing tasks. You may also be entitled to compensation for any loss of earning potential due to your injuries affecting your ability to work in the future.
You may also be able to recover damages for the emotional trauma associated with the accident. A bicycle accident is a scary experience, and you may have lasting effects on your mental health. This can lead to loss of enjoyment of life, particularly if you are in physical pain as well.
Shook & Stone is Here to Fight for You
After someone else’s negligence, you should not have to pay the price. At Shook & Stone, our Sparks bicycle accident attorney understands what you’re going through and will stop at nothing to fight for you to get the full compensation that you are entitled to.
While we hope you never need us, we are happy to be your law firm for life.