Westminster Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Cruising through Westminster on a bike can be refreshing and convenient. Nothing beats the breeze on your face on a warm, sunny day. However, cyclists face many dangers on the road, and even the safest riders can’t avoid some accidents. If you were injured while riding your bike, call the Beliz Law Firm. Michael Beliz is a well-known Westminster bicycle accident lawyer. He understands the nuances of personal injuries and can help determine if you are eligible for compensation.
Case Spotlight
$100,000 Settlement amountCase type: Rear End Accident Case
The Beliz Law obtained a policy limit settlement of $100,000 for a 51-year-old female. The incident occurred on Katella Avenue in the city of Anaheim. A truck driver was approaching stopped traffic and applied the brake pedal. Unfortunately, the driver’s foot slipped off the brake and pressed the accelerator. This caused the driver’s 4-ton truck to jump ahead and crash into the vehicle where the client was sitting as a passenger. The crash was so forceful that eventually, it caused three more vehicles to crash.
The client felt immediate pain to her right arm. Due to the severity of the accident and the pain, an ambulance took the client to the hospital at the University of California, Irvine. Doctors diagnosed the client with a right wrist fracture. The arm was splinted and the client was discharged with instructions to see the client’s primary care physicians. For months, the client presented to physical therapy, however the client’s wrist continued to have issues with pain, grip strength, and movement. Eventually, the client presented to an orthopedic surgeon that recommended surgery. Approximately a year after the accident, the client had surgery on her right wrist.
After signing the client, The Beliz Law Firm investigated the crash details and contacted the truck driver’s insurance company. The Beliz Law Firm presented the facts of the case and the client’s injuries to the other party’s insurance company. Because of the severity of the injuries, The Beliz Law Firm demanded and obtained the other driver’s automobile insurance limits.
Understanding Bicycle Accidents in Westminster
Bicycle accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and the consequences can be devastating. Many injuries involve negligence or hazardous conditions. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Distracted driving. Drivers may look away from the road due to their phones, passengers, or other distractions. They may fail to notice cyclists sharing the road, leading to collisions.
- Failure to yield. Some motorists don’t yield the right of way to cyclists at intersections or while making turns. Their failure to follow traffic laws can cause serious accidents.
- Dooring. Opening a car door in front of an oncoming cyclist can result in a collision known as “dooring.” These sudden impacts often lead to severe injuries to the cyclist.
- Unsafe lane changes. Many drivers make unsafe lane changes, colliding with cyclists traveling in adjacent lanes.
- Speeding. Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations. Speeding drivers might not slow down to avoid hitting cyclists.
- Poor road conditions. Westminster has its fair share of potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces. Drivers who swerve to avoid these hazards may collide with nearby bikers.
- Lack of bike lanes. With designated bike lanes, cyclists must share the road with motor vehicles. This proximity to cars and trucks increases the risk of accidents.
- New drivers. Inexperienced drivers may not understand how to interact with cyclists on the road. They often misread situations, leading to confusion and accidents.
- Impaired driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs a driver’s judgment and coordination. These accidents often cause tragic injuries and account for hundreds of deaths each year.
These are only examples of some of the common cases we see. If someone else caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation. To understand your legal rights, speak with our bicycle accident lawyers in Westminster, CA.
Why You Need a Westminster Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Life after a bicycle accident can be overwhelming. Don’t try to navigate the complexities of the legal system on your own. Here are some reasons why you should work with a skilled attorney.
Legal Knowledge
Bicycle accident cases can involve a tangled web of laws, regulations, and legal precedents. Our bicycle accident attorneys in Westminster, CA, deeply understand these issues. They can quickly identify the main points of your case and build a strategy to pursue the most compensation possible.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Building a strong case in a bicycle accident claim requires a thorough investigation. A seasoned attorney will know how to collect essential evidence that others may overlook. Examples of evidence include accident reports, witness statements, and medical records. Remember to keep any of these documents in case your lawyer needs them.
Negotiation Abilities
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when they try to minimize or deny your claim. Fortunately, your lawyer has years of training and knows how to negotiate with these companies. They will present all the evidence and explain why you need compensation. And remember, our firm will never suggest accepting a settlement unless it is the best choice for you.
Courtroom Representation
Many bicycle accident cases end with out-of-court settlements, but some may require litigation. If your case goes to trial, having a skilled trial attorney by your side can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome. They will prepare strong arguments that show why the law is on your side and supports your compensation claim.
Peace of Mind
Worrying about the complexities of a legal case can add significant stress to an already challenging situation. A Westminster bicycle accident lawyer provides peace of mind by shouldering the burden of the legal process. With their help, you can focus on healing and recovery.
Damages Available After a Cycling Accident
You have the right to seek compensation from the liable party after an accident. Your settlement demand can cover all damages related to the incident.
Common damages available include:
- Medical expenses. Your medical costs can add up fast, creating a significant financial burden. Your settlement can cover expenses such as hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. You can seek lost wages due to missed work and future earnings lost due to long-term or permanent disability.
- Pain and suffering. You might experience distress and diminished quality of life due to the accident. The other side may need to compensate you for this suffering.
- Property damage. An accident can destroy your bicycle and other personal property. You can demand the liable party pay for repairs or replacement of these items.
Speak with Westminster bicycle accident attorney Micahel Beliz to see if you qualify for these damages. He can review your situation and determine an accurate value for your claim.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you’re injured in a bicycle accident in Westminster, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you contact the Beliz Law Firm, the sooner we can begin working on your case and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
We pride ourselves on providing compassionate and effective legal representation. Our attorneys work hard to help clients get the justice and compensation they deserve. With almost 20 years of experience, our team has a proven track record of success in handling all types of personal injury claims. We’re so confident in our abilities that we never charge a fee unless we get compensation for you.
Take the first step towards justice by scheduling your free consultation today.
What Else Should You Look For Westminster Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
When you’re looking for the best legal representation for your personal injury case, you want to find someone you can trust.