Washington State Cyclist Attorney
FAQ’s to Put You at Ease
Our most common questions about bicycle accident law answered.
Q: How soon after my bike accident should I call a bicycle accident lawyer?
After a bike accident, it’s crucial to take swift action in calling us. For your benefit, don’t speak to any insurance company, even your own, without consulting a lawyer first. Protect your rights and avoid giving them any reason to deny your claim. Our experienced team will handle the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on your recovery. We’ll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and secure vital information to maximize the value of your case and shut down any claims of fault against you
Q: How much does it cost to hire a bicycle accident attorney in Seattle?
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning no recovery, no fee. We’ve got you covered every step of the way. We understand that costs can quickly add up if litigation is required, which is why we advance expenses like filing fees, process service fees, expert witness fees, etc. while your case is pending, interest-free. We’ll handle your case with transparency and empower you to pursue justice without fronting the cost of pursuing your case.
Q: How long will it take to resolve my cycling case?
The timeline for resolving your case depends on various factors, with your recovery being the key consideration. While we recognize the desire for a swift resolution, it’s crucial to prioritize thoroughness to safeguard your best interest and we are committed to expediting the process while leaving no stone unturned. If you’re still undergoing treatment, it may be premature to discuss settlement since the full nature and extent of your injuries are yet to be determined.
Once your treatment is complete or your recovery reaches a plateau, the full extent of your damages can be accurately assessed and factored into the settlement value. It’s vital to capture all your damages before accepting a settlement offer, as once it’s accepted, your case is concluded permanently. We will ensure that your case is handled with the utmost care, ensuring all your damages are accounted for, and empowering you to make informed decisions about settling your case.
We understand the importance of keeping you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates on the progress of your case and any significant developments so you understand the timeline for resolving your case.
Q: What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have enough insurance?
Most cyclists have no idea that their auto insurance will pay if they are hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver. If you purchased “uninsured motorist” coverage (UIM) on your auto policy, it will pay for your damages if you are hit by an uninsured driver while riding your bike or if the driver did not have enough insurance to fully compensate you for your injuries. If you are unsure how much UIM coverage you have on your auto policy, you should ask your insurance agent or review your declarations page and consider increasing your UIM Bodily Injury coverage, including purchasing a “UIM Umbrella” that can provide you with seven-figure coverage in the event you are catastrophically injured if you get hit while riding your bike.
Q: How much time will I need to spend on my case after I hire a bike injury lawyer?
After hiring us, our aim is to shoulder the legal burdens of your case, allowing you to focus on your treatment, recovery, and well-being. While your active involvement in the case may vary based on its specific requirements, we strive to minimize the time you need to spend on legal matters. We’ll handle the necessary paperwork, communicate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights. Throughout the process, we’ll ensure you’re well-informed, providing updates and seeking your input when needed. Our main focus is empowering you to reclaim your life with confidence while we do the hard work for you.
Q: What is litigation anyway?
Litigation is lawyer speak for the process of resolving legal disputes through the court system. It involves a formal legal proceeding where two or more parties present their arguments and evidence before a judge, jury or abritrator. During litigation, each party typically hires lawyers to represent their interests and present their cases. The goal is to reach a resolution or judgment on the legal matter through the court’s decision. Litigation can encompass various stages, such as filing a lawsuit, conducting discovery (gathering evidence), negotiation, pretrial hearings, trial, and potential appeals.
Q: Can I recover even if the driver didn’t make contact with me?
Yes. In many cases, actual physical contact is not required for a driver to be held legally responsible for causing a crash. Often, riders have a split-second to take evasive action after being put in an emergency situation through no fault of their own and sometimes end up going over the handlebars or hitting curbs to avoid getting run over by a moving vehicle. You don’t have to actually get physically hit by a car to recover from the at-fault party. If the driver’s negligent actions caused you to crash, legal fault may be established for your injuries so you can recover your damages.
Q: Do all bicycle accident law cases end up in litigation?
Not all bicycle accident cases end up in litigation. In fact, many cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement. However, we prepare every case as if it will be litigated so we have a strategy tailored to achieve the best possible outcome.
Q: Can you help me figure out if I should pursue a legal case for my bicycle accident?
Absolutely! We provide a complimentary initial consultation, so don’t hesitate to reach out and tap into our expertise to get your burning questions answered! During the consultation, we will discuss the specific details of your case and offer self-help guidance if you decide to pursue your case on your own. If you prefer assistance, we will take charge. We thoroughly investigate the collision, open your insurance claims, uncover all available coverages, prepare comprehensive settlement packages, and, if necessary, litigate your case when the insurance company isn’t treating you fairly. No matter which path you choose, we equip you with the necessary information to make an informed decision about how best to pursue your case.
General Bike Accident Questions
It’s imperative to act promptly after a cycling accident. Contact a bike injury lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and maximize your chances of fair compensation. Keep in mind that there is a statute of limitations for filing a claim, so time is of the essence. Our skilled attorney will guide you through the legal process and ensure your claim is filed within the required timeframe and any necessary claim notices are filed if your case is against a municipality for an unsafe road condition.
If you’ve been in a bike collision with an uninsured driver, don’t worry. You still have options to seek compensation for your damages. We will help you navigate the process. Firstly, we’ll explore if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which can compensate you for your bodily injuries when you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver. If not, we’ll assess other potential avenues, such as pursuing a personal injury claim or seeking compensation from other liable parties. Our team will guide you through the legal complexities to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
When it comes to renter’s or homeowner’s insurance, coverage for cycling accidents can vary. It’s essential to review your policy or consult with an attorney to understand the extent of your coverage. In some cases, existing policies may provide limited coverage for cycling accidents. However, considering the potential risks and damages involved, purchasing additional coverage specific to cycling accidents is advisable. Our attorney can help you assess your insurance needs and explore the best options to protect yourself and your bike in case of an accident.
Absolutely! It’s essential to call the police after a bicycle accident, regardless of the severity of injuries or damages. Police documentation creates an official record of the incident, which can be invaluable for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Even if you believe the accident is minor, involving the police ensures that all relevant details are recorded, often with body-worn video cameras that can capture the driver’s admissions at the scene and the contact information for witnesses who might be eager to leave the scene as quickly as possible. Our supportive attorney will help you navigate the aftermath of the accident, including obtaining all of the evidence gathered on the day of the collision including the 911 call, scene photos, videos and witness information so your rights are protected every step of the way.
If you are hit by a driver exiting a vehicle, fault generally lies with the exiting driver or occupant of the vehicle. Opening a car door without ensuring it’s safe can pose serious risks to cyclists. Known as “dooring” accidents, these situations often lead to severe injuries. Our attorney will investigate the incident, gather evidence, and build a strong case to establish liability. Rest assured, we’ll empower you throughout the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Fault in a biking accident can vary depending on the specific circumstances. It’s important not to make assumptions and consult with an experienced attorney who can assess your case. Factors such as traffic law violations, failing to exercise ordinary care, and the contributing actions of both parties will be evaluated to determine liability. Our attorney will thoroughly analyze the details, gather evidence, and advocate for your rights, even if the responding police officer blames you in the police report.
While accepting an insurance company’s settlement offer may seem tempting, it’s imperative to consider your long-term interests. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. Hiring a skilled bike accident lawyer empowers you to level the playing field. Our supportive attorney will educate you about the value of your case to ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
Yes, it is generally legal to ride your bike on Washington sidewalks. However, local ordinances and regulations vary between cities or specific areas. Some areas may have restrictions on sidewalk riding for safety reasons. As bicycle safety advocates, we encourage responsible cycling and staying informed about local laws. If you have any questions or concerns about biking regulations, our team is here to provide guidance and support.
Generally speaking, cyclists must obey traffic laws and signals for everyone’s safety; however, Washington has a “rolling stop” law that allows cyclists to treat a stop sign like a yield sign when the intersection is clear and it is safe to do so. Our knowledgeable attorney can provide you with detailed information on Washington’s cycling regulations and ensure that you are informed and confident in your legal rights and obligations.
No, there is no statewide bicycle helmet law, but many local cities and counties have enacted helmet laws. However, wearing a helmet is highly recommended for all cyclists to protect themselves from potential head injuries. Our team prioritizes safety and encourages responsible cycling practices.
To promote cyclist safety, Washington law requires drivers to give cyclists three feet of distance when passing. This legal requirement helps prevent accidents and provides adequate space for cyclists. As cycling advocates, we support this measure and work to ensure that drivers respect and adhere to this minimum passing distance. If you’ve been involved in an accident due to a driver’s failure to pass at a safe distance, we’ll confidently advocate for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
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I am Stacie Bain, Seattle Bike Attorney, and I would love to have a conversation with you – cyclist to cyclist – to get you the justice you deserve.