New Port Richey Bicycle Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you need to speak with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. At The Fran Haasch Law Group, we are dedicated to helping people who have been injured in bike accidents get the compensation they deserve. We understand how devastating an injury can be and will do everything to help you get back on your feet. Contact us today for a free case review.
How Common Are Bicycle Accidents in New Port Richey?
Established in 1924, New Port Richey is a charming, historic city located on the northwest coast of Florida. The city has a population of just over 16,000 and is a popular destination for tourists and retirees. With its beautiful weather and scenic views, New Port Richey is a great place to ride your bicycle.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were 144 bike crashes in Pasco County in 2021, and based on data for 2022, there were 115 crashes with five fatalities. These numbers are likely underreported, as many bicycle accidents go unreported to the authorities. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents are relatively common in New Port Richey.
What Causes Bicycle Accidents in New Port Richey?
Many different factors can contribute to a bicycle accident. In some cases, the accident is caused by another driver’s negligence. For example, if a driver fails to yield the right of way to a bicyclist or hits a bicyclist while making a turn, the driver may be liable for the accident.
In other cases, the accident may be caused by dangerous or defective road conditions. For example, if a pothole causes a bicyclist to lose control and crash, the city or county responsible for maintaining the road may be liable.
Finally, in some cases, bicycle accidents are caused by defective bicycle parts. The manufacturer may be held liable if a defective bicycle part causes a bicycle accident.
Most Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can result in many injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe injuries, such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Unfortunately, some bicycle accidents even result in death.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Once you have received the necessary medical treatment, you should contact a bicycle accident lawyer to discuss your case. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What To Do After a Bicycle Accident
After being involved in a bicycle accident, you must take the following steps:
Call the Police
You should always call the police after an accident, even if it is minor. The police will create a report which can be used as evidence in your case.
Get Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as concussions and whiplash, may not be immediately apparent. By getting medical attention right away, you will ensure that you get the treatment you need and will also have a record of your injuries.
Gather Evidence
Take pictures of the accident scene and your injuries if you can. Get the contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened. Keep all of your medical records and receipts related to the accident.
Do Not Admit Fault
You should refrain from admitting fault at the scene. Additionally, after the accident, you’ll be contacted by the insurance company, and they will likely try to get you to give a recorded statement. Do not do this. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Let your lawyer handle all communications with the insurance company.
Contact a New Port Richey Bicycle Accident Lawyer
The insurance company will not look out for your best interests, so you need someone on your side who will. A bicycle accident lawyer will fight for your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Following these steps will give you the best chance of getting your compensation. Contact The Fran Haasch Law Group today if you have been injured in a bicycle accident.
Establishing Liability in Bicycle Accidents
All personal injury claims are based on the theory of negligence. To win a negligence case, you must be able to prove the following:
- The defendant owed you a duty of care
- The defendant breached that duty
- You were injured as a result of the breach
- You suffered damages as a result of your injuries
In most bicycle accident cases, the driver of the car will be held liable. However, there are some situations where another party may be at fault.
For example, the manufacturer may be held liable if the accident was caused by a defective bicycle or car part. If you are unsure who is at fault for your accident, an attorney will be able to help you investigate and determine liability.
Examples of Negligence in a Bicycle Accident Case
Some examples of negligence that may lead to a bicycle accident include:
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Failing to stop at a red light or stop sign
- Speeding
- Texting while driving
- Making an illegal turn
- Not using headlights at night
How to Prove Negligence in a Port Richey Bicycle Accident Case
To prove negligence, you will need to gather evidence. This may include:
- Witness statements
- Photos of the accident scene and your injuries
- Your medical records
- Receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident
- Any other documentation related to the accident
Proving negligence can be complicated, so it is important to have a bicycle accident lawyer on your side. An experienced attorney will know how to collect and present this evidence in a way that is most likely to win your case. The Fran Haasch Law Group will thoroughly investigate your accident and build a strong case on your behalf.
Bicycle Accident Injuries and Calculating Your Damages
Bicycle accidents can cause various injuries, some of which may be serious or even life-threatening. Typical bicycle accident injuries include:
- Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
In addition to physical injuries, bicycle accident victims may also be entitled to compensation for their economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages have a specific monetary value, such as your medical bills and lost wages.
Non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify and may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
When calculating your damages, it is important to consider your current and future needs. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer will work with you to calculate all of the damages you are entitled to and fight for the full amount of compensation you deserve.
How Much Is My Bicycle Accident Claim Worth?
The value of your claim will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, your medical expenses, recovery time, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident.
The Severity of Your Injuries
The severity of your injuries is one of the most important factors in determining the value of your claim. In general, the more serious your injuries are, the higher your damages will be. This is because you will likely have higher medical bills and may miss more time from work. You may also suffer from a permanent disability or disfigurement, which can significantly impact your life.
Your Medical Expenses and Treatment
Your medical expenses will play a significant role in determining the value of your claim. This includes both your current and future medical costs. When calculating your damages, it is important to consider your treatment’s duration, cost, and nature. For example, if you require surgery, this will likely have a higher value than if you only need to see a doctor for a few visits.
Your Recovery Time and Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost wages. This includes the time you miss from work while recovering and any future lost earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to work or from working at the same level as you did before the accident.
Other Expenses Related to the Accident
You may also be entitled to compensation for other expenses related to the accident. This may include property damage, legal fees, and travel expenses.
Comparative Fault in Florida Bicycle Accidents
In some cases, the other party may try to claim that you are partially at fault for the accident. This is known as comparative fault.
Florida’s fault system has been updated to a “greater percentage of fault” model, which now prevents a party from receiving damages if they are found to be more than 50% responsible for their own harm.
For example, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages but are found to be 45% at fault, you would only receive $35,000, or 35%. If you were 51% at fault, you would not recover any damages.
This model of comparative fault can create challenges for the victim in proving the other party’s liability, making it essential to have a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer who can fight for your rights. The Fran Haasch Law Group will fight for the full amount of compensation you deserve. We do not charge any fees unless we recover money for you. We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients and are ready to put our experience to work for you. Contact us today.
What Does a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Do?
A New Port Richey bicycle accident lawyer can help you in many ways.
Investigate Your Claim
The first step in any personal injury claim is to investigate what happened. This will involve talking to witnesses, reviewing police reports, and gathering evidence. A bicycle accident lawyer will know how to properly investigate your claim and gather the evidence you need to support your case.
Negotiate With the Insurance Company
Once the investigation is complete, your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company. This can be a difficult and time-consuming process. Insurance companies are often reluctant to pay out claims, even when valid. A bicycle accident lawyer will know how to properly negotiate with the insurance company and get you the full compensation you deserve.
Settle or Take Your Case to Court
Most cases are settled outside of court. However, if the insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer may recommend taking your case to court. This can be a lengthy and expensive process, but it may be the only way to get the compensation you deserve.
How to Practice Bicycle Safety in New Port Richey
Risks are always involved whether you ride in the historic downtown area, along the beautiful waterfront, or in any other great location. Here are some tips on how to practice bicycle safety in New Port Richey:
- Wear a helmet. This is the most important thing you can do to protect yourself while riding a bicycle.
- Make sure your bike is in good working condition. This includes having the proper tires and brakes.
- Be aware of your surroundings. This means being aware of cars, pedestrians, and other potential hazards.
- Follow the rules of the road. This includes following Florida law for bicycles, stopping at stop signs and red lights, and yielding to pedestrians.
- Ride defensively. This means being prepared for the worst and always looking for potential hazards.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience while riding a bicycle in New Port Richey.
The Fran Haasch Law Group: Port Richey Bicycle Accident Lawyers You Can Trust
If you have suffered injuries in a bike accident, it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side. The Fran Haasch Law Group has over 21 years of experience handling personal injury claims, including bicycle accident cases. We will fight for your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. We serve clients in New Port Richey, Clearwater, and throughout Florida. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.
