Bicycle Accidents
Helping You Get the results You Need
Athens Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Upholding the Rights of Injured Bicyclists in Georgia
Did a reckless motorist hit you while riding your bicycle down the street? Were you using your bike on an approved sidewalk when a negligent pedestrian opened a shop door in front of you? If you were hurt while riding your bike or lost a loved one due to the negligence of another, you could have the opportunity to file a civil injury claim in pursuit of fair damages.
To discover your legal options, call (706) 760-9220 and speak to The Law Offices of Joshua W. Branch, LLC, serving injured cyclists in Athens and throughout Georgia. We are known for combining influential legal counsel with genuine compassion. When you are here, we treat you like family, not a case number, because you deserve friendly and effective legal support.
Our team understands that each bicycle accident is unique and requires a tailored approach to examine every aspect of the incident thoroughly. We dedicate the resources necessary for a comprehensive investigation, leaving no stone unturned. This allows us to build a robust strategy to secure the most favorable outcome for our clients.
Injured in a bicycle accident in Athens? Call The Law Offices of Joshua W. Branch, LLC today at (706) 760-9220 or contact us online for a free consultation!
Millions Recovered
Results Help Our Clients move forward
The team of Athens personal injury lawyers at The Law Offices of Joshua W. Branch, LLC have recovered millions of dollars for clients injured in car accidents, tractor-trailer accidents, premises liability, wrongful death, and more!
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Factory Accident $5 Million $5 Million
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Severe Car Accident $2.5 Million $2.5 Million
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Horrific Car Crash $2 Million $2 Million
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Severe Car Accident $1.6 Million $1.6 Million
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JB Client vs. A.O. Brickman $1.5 Million $1.5 Million
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JB Client v. State Entity $1.4 Million $1.4 Million
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Severe Car Accident $1.3 Million $1.3 Million
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Car Accident $1.3 Million $1.25 Million
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JB Client v. Negligent Individual Driver $1.1 Million $1.1 Million
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JB Client vs. Corporation $1.1 Million
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Spinal Injury from Car Accident Settled Before Trial $700 Thousand $700,000
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JB Client vs. Trucking Company and Fabricating Company $700 Thousand $700,000
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JB Client vs. Individual $650 Thousand
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JB Client vs. Pizza Delivery Franchisee $650 Thousand
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JB Client vs. Negligent Driver $650 Thousand
What Causes Bicycle Accidents?
In some cases, defendants and their insurance companies can be too eager to blame the crash on the bicyclist. This assumption is unfair and can often be challenged with an investigation. If you were hit by a motorist or pedestrian while riding your bike, we want to prove they caused it.
Beyond proving fault, it is crucial to understand the various dynamics that contribute to these accidents. For example, inadequate biking infrastructure or poorly maintained roads can play a significant role in these mishaps. Understanding these factors helps strengthen your claim and advocates for better safety measures in the community.
Different causes of bicycle accidents can include:
- Motorists driving in dedicated bike lanes
- Motorists running red lights
- Motorists opening car doors into bike lanes
- Pedestrians opening shop doors without checking
Bicycle Laws & Safety Tips in Athens
Athens, GA, embraces a vibrant cycling culture, and understanding local laws is essential for safety. Cyclists must comply with Georgia's bike laws, including using bike lanes where available, adhering to traffic signals, and equipping bikes with lights and reflectors for night riding. Familiarizing yourself with these laws can help prevent accidents and provide cyclists with a strong foundation if an accident occurs.
To avoid common risks, wear high-visibility clothing, use hand signals to communicate with drivers, and maintain a safe distance from parked cars to prevent dooring accidents. Additionally, participating in local cycling education programs and staying informed about bicycle safety initiatives can further protect you against hazards and enhance your cycling experience in Athens.
How to Choose a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Athens
Choosing the right bicycle accident attorney can significantly impact resolving your legal challenges. When searching for an attorney, consider their experience with local laws and ability to offer personalized legal advice that suits your particular circumstances. It is beneficial to select a firm with a proven track record in handling bicycle accident claims, as they will be familiar with the nuances of these types of incidents.
At The Law Offices of Joshua W. Branch, LLC, we pride ourselves on treating clients like family, offering compassionate and professional service. Our familiarity with Athens' legal landscape ensures we provide tailored advice and representation. Schedule a consultation to explore how our approach can benefit you. We believe in building a collaborative partnership with our clients to navigate the complexities of your claim and achieve the best possible outcome.
How Do You Prove Liability for Bicycle Accidents?
Proving that you are not liable for a bicycle accident is crucial for reducing your liability and obtaining the most compensation from the responsible party. Our Athens bicycle accident attorney knows how to uncover helpful evidence to strengthen your claim.
Understanding liability is not always straightforward, especially when multiple parties could be at fault. We meticulously analyze the incident, collecting testimonies and collaborating with experts to reconstruct the accident scene when necessary. This thorough approach ensures that all responsible entities are held accountable, safeguarding your right to fair compensation.
Evidence that we might be able to use to build your bicycle accident claim includes:
- Bicycle helmet cam footage
- Eyewitness testimony
- First responder reports
- Medical records
Common Injuries in Athens Bicycle Accidents
As a bicyclist, you mostly rely on three things to stay safe while traveling: your helmet, your skills, and the motorists' attentiveness. Unfortunately, you can't control how motorists behave. If an accident happens because a driver wasn't paying attention, only your helmet can protect you from injuries. For this reason, many bicycle accident claims involve catastrophic injuries.
Understanding the nature of potential injuries is vital, as it informs the medical approach and aids in establishing a long-term care plan. From seeking immediate medical attention to ensuring accurate diagnosis and treatment, victims must navigate a complex healthcare process. Our attorneys can help streamline these efforts, liaising with healthcare providers to ensure all medical reports align with your claim.
Serious injuries that are often reported in bicycle accidents include:
- Back and spine injuries
- Head and brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Road rash or scarring
- Permanent disfigurement
- And others
At The Law Offices of Joshua W. Branch, LLC, we focus on injury claims involving catastrophic and life-changing injuries. If you were seriously injured in a bike accident, then you can trust that our team will know how to handle your highly sensitive and complicated claim.
How Much Is My Bicycle Accident Claim Worth?
What compensation is owed to you after a bicycle accident? It depends on your injuries, the associated costs, and how your life has changed because of them. Our legal staff is here to work together and calculate the complete compensation owed to you so we don't risk leaving even a dollar unclaimed.
When assessing the value of your claim, we consider numerous factors, including potential future economic losses and non-economic impacts like emotional distress and reduced quality of life. By collaborating closely with economists, healthcare experts, and vocational professionals, we ensure your claim's precise and comprehensive valuation.
The compensation we seek can help you pay for the following
- Past and future medical costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering damages
- Permanent disability complications
Contact Our Athens Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
With millions recovered for our clients, your Athens bicycle accident claim will be in good hands when our Athens, GA personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Joshua W. Branch, LLC are on the case. We invite you to learn more about our legal services and your options after being in a bicycle accident. To start, click here and arrange a FREE consultation with a bicycle accident attorney near me. There is no obligation or upfront cost to you, so it has never been easier to discover how to seek compensation for your losses.
Exploring legal avenues can be daunting, but our approachable team is dedicated to easing this burden. We'll guide you through every step, from gathering necessary documentation to negotiating with insurance companies, highlighting our comprehensive service and commitment to achieving your best possible outcome.
Ready to pursue justice? Reach out to our Athens bicycle accident lawyer now and get the compensation you deserve!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents
What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident in Athens?
If you are involved in a bicycle accident in Athens, your priority should be ensuring your safety and health. First, move to a secure location to avoid further harm. Call 911 to report the accident, even if injuries seem minor, as police documentation is crucial for future legal actions. Gather as much information as possible, including the driver’s contact details, license plate number, and any possible witness statements. For documentation, take photographs of the scene, your bicycle, and any visible injury. Seeking immediate medical attention is vital, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Ensure you obtain a medical report detailing all injuries sustained, which can serve as firsthand evidence for your claim. Contact The Law Offices of Joshua W. Branch, LLC as soon as possible to discuss your situation and explore legal options with a bicycle accident lawyer in Athens.
How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Claim in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including those for bicycle accidents, is generally two years from the accident date. This period may vary depending on the specifics of the incident, such as the involvement of a governmental entity, which might impose different filing deadlines. Act promptly to ensure all necessary evidence is preserved and the claim is filed within this timeframe. Engaging a legal team early can significantly enhance the preparation and strength of your claim, as we can help you navigate the legal process efficiently. Additionally, timely legal intervention can avoid the risk of missing vital legal deadlines that could potentially bar your claim altogether.
What Role Do Insurance Companies Play After a Bicycle Accident?
Insurance companies often play a significant role after a bicycle accident, as they are typically responsible for settling claims. However, it's important to remember that their primary aim is often to minimize payout amounts to protect their financial interests. After reporting the incident to your insurer, be cautious in your communications and avoid providing written or recorded statements without consulting a lawyer. Our legal team can handle negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive fair treatment. We work diligently to ensure that the offered settlement adequately reflects the full scope of your injuries and losses.
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“My first impression of the firm was that they care!” - Rachelle, Personal Injury Client
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“Mr. Branch made me feel as if he cared about my accident” - Drew, Personal Injury Client
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“I was very lucky to find the right attorney in Joshua Branch” - Sheila. Personal Injury Client
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“Joshua Branch's communication skills and his assurance put me at ease” - The Crawfords, Personal Injury Client
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“When it comes to personal injury cases, I can't imagine someone using anyone else than Josh Branch.” - Randolph, Personal Injury Client