According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),1 bicycle accidents resulting in an estimated 515,000 emergency department visits in 2010. When bicyclists are struck by other vehicles or thrown from their bikes because of hazards in the roadway, they often sustain extremely serious injuries. In cases where a bicycle accident is the result of someone else’s carelessness, victims are often entitled to financial recovery.
Many people are justifiably curious as to how much money they can expect to receive after an accident occurs. The amount of money you collect depends on a number of factors. Generally speaking, the more injured you are, the more money you will receive. The kinds of damages2 generally sought in a personal injury case arising from a bicycle accident are detailed below.
- Past, current, and future medical expenses – In many personal injury cases, medical expenses are the most significant form of damages that a victim recovers. These expenses can often rise into the tens of thousands of dollars, and victims are able to recover them even if their insurance company pays their bills.
- Lost income – Many people who are injured in bicycle accidents are unable to work for weeks and months. In some cases, bicycle accident victims develop disabilities that may even prevent them from working at all. Being unable to work can result in the loss of a significant amount of income. Fortunately, victims can often recover for their lost income as well as loss of future earning potential.
- Physical pain and suffering – Bicycle accident victims often experience significant physical pain and suffering. Compensation is available not only for the pain and suffering that victims have already experienced, but also for the physical discomfort they will experience in the future.
- Emotional pain and suffering – Compensation is also available for the emotional pain and suffering that bicycle accident victims experience. Examples of emotional pain and suffering include mental anguish, depression, anxiety, or loss of enjoyment of life.
The amount of money a bicycle accident victim may recover can vary widely, ranging from a few thousand dollars to in excess of a million. When you meet with an attorney, he or she will evaluate your case, determine whether you have a valid claim, and advise you as to how much you may be able to recover. While money cannot change the past, it can certainly help victims maintain their financial security and feel that justice has been served.
Contact a Michigan bicycle accident lawyer today to discuss your case
Individuals who are injured in bicycle accidents often incur significant economic and noneconomic losses. As a result, it is important for victims to discuss their options with an experienced attorney. Stroble Law has been representing the rights of people injured in accidents caused by the negligence of others since 2008. To schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys, please fill out and submit our online contact form or call our office at 888-454-0801.
References:
1 http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Bicycle/
2 https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/Damages
Thomas L. Stroble
FOUNDER
Mr. Stroble is a highly accomplished graduate of Michigan State University, with degrees in both science and law. He specializes in commercial lawsuits and personal injury cases. Licensed to practice law in Michigan and even the U.S. Supreme Court, he’s a well-qualified legal expert. Besides his career in law, he loves outdoor activities and volunteers as a part-time police officer in Birmingham.
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