Were you hit by a vehicle while riding your bike and now dealing with serious injuries? If so, you'll want to know a few things about your case so you have expectations on how it will play out.
The Responsible Driver Needs To Have Liability Coverage
The majority of your compensation is going to come from the other driver's liability coverage, which they may or may not have enough of to cover your injuries. That is because a bike injury can result in much greater injuries than if you were in a vehicle that provides you with more protection.
You may find yourself struggling to find the insurance available through liability coverage if you got into an accident with a normal driver, but be aware that commercial vehicles are more likely to have the coverage that you need. For example, if you were hit by a rideshare driver while they were providing a ride, know that they will have coverage from the rideshare company to cover your injuries. If it was a commercial truck, they more than likely will carry a high amount of liability insurance as well.
If the driver doesn't have liability insurance, then you'll likely need to use your own auto insurance's uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Even though you were not driving your vehicle at the time, you can still use your car insurance coverage to help pay for your injuries.
The Extent Of The Injury Will Determine Pain And Suffering
Don't assume that you will be able to receive pain and suffering damages just because you were injured while on a bike. The extent of your injury will likely determine how much money you can sue for, with permanent injuries being worth more than minor injuries. If you needed to have plates and screws put in your body to help you recover, this is something that you will have to live with forever and is considered a permanent injury. While you would prefer to have a minor injury, know that they won't lead to receiving pain and suffering damages in most cases.
The Settlement Depends On Your Level Of Fault
Simply being on a bike won't always lead to you winning your case. Your level of fault is going to be scrutinized in an injury lawsuit, with things being considered like if you were wearing reflective clothing, if you were riding in a bike lane, and if you were following all the appropriate traffic laws for bicyclists. Know that your settlement can be reduced if you are found to hold a percentage of fault.
For more information, contact a firm like the Carton law office.
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