Do I Need a Lawyer for My Bicycle Accident Case?

After a bicycle accident, you might wonder whether you really need a lawyer. While not every case requires one, the statistics strongly favor victims who have legal representation.

When You Definitely Need a Lawyer

- Serious or permanent injuries

• Disputed liability

• Multiple vehicles involved

• Hit and run accident

• Commercial vehicle accident

• Government entity liable

• Insurance company denies or lowballs claim

• Contributory negligence state

• Wrongful death case

When You Might Not Need a Lawyer

- Very minor injuries (scrapes, bruises)

• Clear liability

• Fair settlement offer

• No lost wages

• Comfortable negotiating yourself

How Attorneys Help

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Investigation

• Accident reconstruction

• Witness interviews

• Evidence preservation

• Expert consultation

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Legal Knowledge

• Understanding fault systems

• Knowing deadlines

• Navigating procedures

• Identifying all liable parties

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Negotiation

• Experience with insurance tactics

• Knowledge of case values

• Willingness to go to trial

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Trial Readiness

• Insurance companies settle higher when attorney is prepared to try the case

The Statistics

Studies show:

• Injury victims with lawyers recover 3-4 times more on average

• Insurance companies offer lower settlements to unrepresented claimants

• Attorneys identify damages victims miss

Cost of a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Most work on contingency:

• No upfront cost

• No hourly fees

• Attorney paid percentage of recovery (usually 33-40%)

• If you don't win, you don't pay attorney fees