Unique Aspects of Bicycle Accidents in Columbus

Bicycle accidents often end in serious injuries. The lack of protection puts a cyclist in danger when other traffic participants act negligently. To recover compensation after such accidents, the injured party often has to face many legal subtleties.

David Bence, an experienced attorney who comes from a long line of local lawyers, can help you navigate the unique aspects of bicycle accidents in Columbus. Call for a free case review today.

Options After a Hit and Run Bicycle Accident

Many bicycle accidents are hit-and-run. Negligent parties hurt the cyclist and leave the scene of the accident. Damage recovery in such crashes is complicated but possible.

The first step to take after taking care of emergency health issues is to start gathering evidence. If the police were called to the scene, they could share a report that includes eyewitness accounts. Other evidence can include camera footage and photos of the scene.

Once the police find the at-fault party, the cyclist can file a lawsuit. If the case proceeds to court, the judge may award the victim punitive damages in addition to other compensation. The goal of punitive damages is to punish the at-fault party for extremely negligent behavior.

What is Comparative Negligence?

One of the unique aspects of bicycle crashes in Columbus is shared responsibility. Georgia uses a modified comparative negligence system, which allows people who are partially at fault for the accident to recover damages.

If a cyclist is partly at fault for the crash, their financial recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a driver causes 70% of the crash and the cyclist is 30% at fault, the cyclist can recover 70% of their damages. However, if the cyclist is 50% or more at fault, they may not be able to recover anything.

In cases where responsibility is shared, proving the right to damage recovery is more complicated. Both parties would have to argue that their fault does not exceed 50%. This requires a comprehensive legal approach and high-quality evidence.

Third-Party Liability in a Bike Crash

The two parties usually involved in bicycle accidents may not always be at fault. In some cases, third parties are involved. This can happen when the accident was caused by:

• Poor road conditions: Potholes or worn-out markings can cause cyclists to lose control and lead to serious accidents.
• Construction hazards: Unsecured equipment for temporary lane closures in work zones can create dangerous obstacles for riders.
• Defective equipment: Malfunctioning vehicles, traffic signals, or bicycle components can directly contribute to collisions.

In these unique cases, the injured person can file a bike crash lawsuit in Columbus against the third party. The legal claim can even extend to the local municipality. Filing a claim against the government demands highly specific evidence and extensive legal knowledge.

Discuss Unique Aspects of Bicycle Accidents with a Skilled Attorney in Columbus

Understanding unique aspects of bicycle accidents in Columbus can help you build a strong case and recover compensation. However, this knowledge may not be sufficient to claim fair damages. To do that properly, you need to work with a qualified attorney.

A practiced attorney from Bence Law Firm, LLC takes an aggressive approach to fighting for your rights. With David Bence on your side, you improve your chances of recovering maximum compensation. Call for a free consultation today.