12 Mar I Got Hit by a Car on My Bike in Sacramento. Can I Sue?

Riding your bike through a large metropolitan area like Sacramento can be dangerous. Not all drivers stay alert when behind the wheel, and it may only take one small mistake by a driver for you to get hit and for your life to change forever. On the other hand, because bicyclists often believe they have the right of way, they may miscommunicate with vehicle drivers, and collisions can occur.

If you’ve been hit by a car while riding your bike in Sacramento, the consequences can be devastating. Your recovery may be physically and emotionally hard, but you can sue for your suffering. A Sacramento personal injury lawyer from Crowell Law Offices can use evidence from your accident to hold the at-fault driver accountable. 

How Bicycle Accidents Occur in Sacramento

When you’re hit by a car on your bike in Sacramento, it’s often the driver’s fault. The driver who hit you may have been speeding, distracted behind the wheel, driving under the influence, or drowsy. It’s also possible that a car malfunction caused the driver to hit you. If a roadway hazard, such as a pothole, caused the driver to hit you, then a negligent government entity may be at fault.

You must thoroughly investigate your bicycle accident to determine liability, and even if the driver is at fault, you’ll need proof to obtain a settlement in court.  

Proving Liability in Your Sacramento Bike Accident

Proving liability in a Sacramento bike accident may require video footage, photographs, witness statements, or medical records. Unlike some accidents, a bicycle accident should be easier to prove than others because the driver won’t be able to deny hitting you. Although bicyclists don’t always have the right of way, it’s unlikely that you’ll be held at fault unless you crossed the street without warning, as one example. 

Damages You Can Recover in Your Bicycle Accident Claim

If you can prove liability against the negligent driver who hit you or against another negligent party in your accident, then you can proceed with accounting for your damages. You may have suffered severe injuries in your accident, which can lead to both present and future medical expenses. You may also recover compensation for any wages you’ve lost from missing work.

Aside from economic damages, the at-fault party must pay you for your non-economic damages. These damages will include things like your pain and suffering, scarring and disfigurement, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Money can’t erase the trauma you’ve suffered, but it can make the healing process a little easier. 

Contact a Sacramento Personal Injury Attorney

If you’re unfamiliar with the legal claims process, having a knowledgeable attorney by your side will be helpful. A supportive lawyer in Sacramento will know how to get the most out of your claim and can negotiate with the insurance company and/or judge and jury on your behalf.

If you’re ready to speak with a Sacramento personal injury lawyer from Crowell Law Offices, you can schedule a free consultation by filling out the contact form below or by calling 916-303-2800.