In 2019, New York City recorded over 18,000 accidents involving cyclists, 16 of them being fatal – an alarming, if seemingly inconsequential –portion. But a massive portion of it resulted in injury, likely leading to almost as many people filing for accident claims.
With so many cases piling up, how do you get your bicycle-related case to stand out and win the favor of the jury? This is where New York bicycle accident lawyers can help. Here’s how.
1. They Offer Professional Assistance
The path to justice is a maze of bureaucracy and complicated legal language and laws. Navigating the system as a novice is next to impossible because you aren’t aware of the steps to take in certain situations. A bike accident lawyer is key to unlocking the justice system because they know it better through years of experience – specifically when talking about bike accidents per se.
For example, they will explain the laws applicable to your specific case. They also expound on procedures like serving the defendants and adhering to the statute of limitations. Furthermore, insurance, medical and legal jargon can be difficult to understand; therefore, you need a helping hand in the form of a bike accident lawyer.
2. Explains Your Legal Options
In the complexity of seeking justice for yourself or a loved one, you sometimes find yourself at crossroads. You don’t know whether to accept the offer on the table, ask for more, or sue the defendants. Sometimes the outcome is always shrouded in mystery. Losing is always a big possibility.
A bike accident lawyer is your roadmap toward successful negotiation and settlement. For instance, they can review your case and advise you whether to sue or not based on the available evidence. They can also explain the potential outcome of negotiations, enabling you to choose between the current low settlement or asking for more.
3. Lawyers Conduct A Thorough And Professional Investigation
Solid and reliable evidence guarantees a favorable outcome in a bike accident claim. With raw wounds, emotional distress, or grief, you’re in the least favorable position to make a sound decision, let alone identify a piece of evidence when you see one. A New York bike accident lawyer is better equipped to sift through loads of paperwork, doctor’s reports, photos, and other evidence to use in the claim or lawsuit.
Furthermore, lawyers use their law firm’s resources to gather and consolidate incriminating evidence. For instance, they have connections with other investigators who can interview witnesses, document the crash site and develop convincing theories on the occurrence of the incident. Other experts backing your attorney include forensic scientists, accident reconstruction experts, and other dedicated attorneys.
4. Legal Document Drafting And Filing
Preparing the paperwork for a bike accident claim or a lawsuit is tedious and strenuous. Remember, some are professional documents that must be done correctly, or your claim will be denied. You don’t have time for all these as you are fully occupied with receiving medical treatment or recuperating at home.
A bike accident lawyer can handle legal paperwork efficiently because it is part of their job. After a thorough claim investigation, they can draft and send demand letters to the defendant’s insurers. They can also prepare a set of legal documents known as pleadings which illustrates your arguments on the liability and the amount of compensation you seek for your damages.
5. Help With Legal Processes
Several judicial processes require deep legal knowledge and years of expertise. They either appear before or after the filing of a lawsuit. A good example would be negotiations with the defendants or participation in alternative dispute resolution settings.
Arbitration is another example. Here, an arbitrator makes a binding decision for the plaintiff and the defendants. The person chosen should be impartial and have enough experience and legal knowledge to officiate the process. Only advocates like your bike accident lawyer can point out a credible arbitrator.
Final Word
Bike accident lawyers wear many hats, including that of the investigator, personal adviser, and negotiator. They will draft your documents, serve defendants, negotiate higher settlement amounts with insurance companies, and even fight for you in court. You are better off with one than without. With bike-sharing services (and bicycle use in general) gaining even more popularity in NYC, these lawyers will need to stay on their toes and expect the likelihood of more bicycle lawsuits coming their way.
