At Bernard Law Group, we understand a bicycle accident’s devastating impact on your life. Our experienced team of Bellevue bicycle accident lawyers is here to help you pursue justice and secure the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Lane Change Bicycle Accidents in Bellevue
Lane change accidents occur when a motorist switches lanes without properly checking for bicyclists or fails to signal their intentions, causing a collision. Given the vulnerability of cyclists, these accidents often result in severe injuries, including fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and even fatalities.
Washington law recognizes bicyclists’ right to share the road with motor vehicles. Under RCW 46.61.770, bicyclists must ride as far to the right as is safe but are allowed to take the full lane when conditions demand it, such as to avoid hazards or when traveling at the speed of traffic. Despite these protections, negligent drivers often fail to account for cyclists, leading to dangerous situations.
The Consequences of Negligent Lane Changes
As a top accident law firm in Bellevue, we’ve seen firsthand how a negligent lane change can alter the course of a victim’s life. Common causes of these accidents include:
- Failure to Check Blind Spots: Drivers often overlook cyclists when scanning their mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes.
- Improper Use of Turn Signals: Without signaling, bicyclists have no warning of a vehicle’s intended movements.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or other distractions reduce drivers’ awareness of their surroundings.
- Speeding: Excessive speed leaves drivers less time to react to bicyclists in adjacent lanes.
These actions constitute negligence, and when they lead to an accident, the at-fault driver can be held liable for the resulting injuries and damages.
Your Legal Rights as a Bicycle Accident Victim
Our team of lane change bicycle accident attorneys in Bellevue is dedicated to protecting your rights and holding negligent drivers accountable. Washington operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.
For example, if a court determines you were 20% responsible for the accident because you didn’t use a bike lane when one was available, your total award would be reduced by that percentage. As your bicycle accident lawyer in Bellevue, we aim to ensure fault is accurately assessed and you receive the maximum compensation possible.
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Pursuing Compensation After a Lane Change Accident
Recovering from a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, especially when facing mounting medical bills and lost wages. At Bernard Law Group, we’re here to guide you through the legal process so you can focus on healing. Compensation in these cases typically includes:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost during your recovery and diminished earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous job.
- Pain and Suffering: Recognition of the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on your life.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for your damaged bicycle and other personal property.
Why Choose Bernard Law Group?
With decades of experience and a track record of success, Bernard Law Group is the top accident law firm in Bellevue for a reason. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we’re proud to offer:
- Personalized Attention: We treat every client individually, tailoring our approach to meet your needs.
- Aggressive Advocacy: We’ll fight tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
- No Upfront Costs: Our contingency fee structure means you don’t pay unless we win.
- Proven Results: Our team has recovered millions of dollars for accident victims throughout Washington State.
Bicycle Safety and Accident Statistics in Washington
Understanding the scope of the problem underscores the importance of advocating for accident victims. According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, over 1,300 bicycle accidents were reported statewide in the most recent year, nearly 90% of which resulted in injuries or fatalities. In urban areas like Bellevue, collisions increase due to heavy traffic and the mix of bicycles and motor vehicles sharing the road.
Drivers and cyclists must follow safety guidelines to reduce the risk of accidents. However, motorists who fail to exercise care can suffer catastrophic consequences.
How We Build a Strong Case for You
- Investigating the Accident: Gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage.
- Consulting Experts: Working with accident reconstruction specialists to determine how and why the collision occurred.
- Documenting Your Damages: Collecting medical records, bills, and other documentation to calculate your losses accurately.
- Negotiating with Insurers: Engaging with insurance companies on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.
- Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, we’ll take your case to court and advocate for you before a judge and jury.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
If you’ve been involved in a lane change bicycle accident in Bellevue, taking the following steps can protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by visiting a doctor, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Report the Accident: File a police report to document the incident.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bicycle.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurers: Refrain from providing statements to insurance companies without legal representation.
- Contact Us: The sooner you reach out to our team, the sooner we can build your case.
Washington Laws That Protect Cyclists
Washington is recognized as one of the most bike-friendly states in the country, with laws designed to safeguard cyclists. Some of the most relevant laws include:
- RCW 46.61.110: Requires drivers to yield to bicyclists when changing lanes.
- RCW 46.61.120: Mandates the use of turn signals before making lane changes or turns.
- RCW 46.61.526: Prohibits negligent driving that endangers others, including cyclists.
These laws establish clear expectations for motorist behavior and provide a legal framework for holding drivers accountable when they fail to exercise due care.
Need Justice? Reach Out Today for Legal Counsel
Let Us Help You Move Forward
At Bernard Law Group, we understand that recovering from a bicycle accident is a challenging journey. Our mission is to ease your burden by handling the legal complexities of your case. With our team of experienced lane change bicycle accident attorneys in Bellevue by your side, you can focus on healing while we fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent lane change, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us put our expertise and resources to work for you. Together, we can hold negligent drivers accountable and help make Bellevue’s streets safer for everyone.
