Bicycle accidents often mean severe injuries: broken bones, head and neck injuries, back and spinal cord injuries, and a host of other challenges that have the potential to permanently change the course of the person’s life. Because bicycles provide no protection against the force of a vehicle in an accident, injured individuals may need to seek substantial compensation. However, you may find that insurance companies do not always pay out the compensation you deserve without a fight. Going over the damages in Woodbridge bicycle accident cases with a dedicated bicycle accident attorney could help you better understand your right to compensation.
Medical Costs
The cost of medical treatment for bicycle accident injuries can rise fast. Many people need emergency transportation in an ambulance after a bicycle accident, particularly if they sustain severe injuries. Treatment in the emergency room can also mean high costs, even if the injured individual does not end up requiring hospital admission. From there, costs only increase. Keeping track of all those medical bills can make it easier for injured individuals to lay out all of those costs, including:
- Follow-up visits
- Surgeries and procedures
- Durable medical equipment
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Psychological therapy for individuals who struggle with trauma or PTSD
Injured individuals not only have the right to include current medical expenses in the damages in Woodbridge bicycle accident cases, but they should also account for anticipated future medical costs. A doctor’s assessment of likely future treatment needs could help support the inclusion of these projected expenses in the claim.
Wage and Income Losses
Bicycle accident injuries often require an extended recovery period. During that time, many injured individuals are unable to perform their regular job duties, which may result in a significant loss of income. The duration of time away from work may depend on several factors, including the nature of the injuries, the person’s typical responsibilities, and their employer’s return-to-work policies. The longer the absence, the more financial strain that lost income could create.
In addition to including income losses during the immediate recovery process, injured cyclists can add time missed at work because of follow-up appointments or therapy to the damages in Woodbridge bicycle accident cases. Furthermore, if the injury permanently prevents the cyclist from going back to work in their former position, they can include compensation for their lost earning potential.
Suffering
Not only do the damages in Woodbridge bicycle accident cases include compensation for direct financial losses, but injured individuals could also seek compensation for their overall suffering. This may include physical pain from the incident as well as emotional distress tied to the loss of independence or the inability to participate in former hobbies, such as cycling. A lawyer could help the injured party evaluate their unique circumstances and present how that suffering has affected their daily life.
Go Over the Damages in Woodbridge Bicycle Accident Cases With a Lawyer
The damages in Woodbridge bicycle accident cases can vary significantly depending on the injuries sustained and the specific losses faced by the individual. Furthermore, the compensation actually recovered can depend on the insurance company that covers the liable driver and a host of other factors.
At Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC, we understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the aftermath of a bicycle accident—especially when you are also dealing with physical pain and financial uncertainty. Our team works closely with each client to identify the full scope of their losses and pursue compensation that reflects the true impact of the accident. Contact us today for a free consultation.
