Why Might I Need a Pedestrian and Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Middletown, OH?
Speaking with our experienced pedestrian and bicycle accident lawyers in Middletown, OH, is a great step towards securing the compensation you or your loved one needs and deserves. Before discussing the benefits of working with Kruger & Hodges, here’s an overview of pedestrian and bicycle accidents.
These accidents happen in different cities across Ohio, including Middletown. Although statistics show that the number of pedestrian accidents in Middletown has reduced over the past few years, one injury or death is one too many.
A seasoned pedestrian and bicycle accident attorney can help fight for your rights. Here are a few things you need to know about cycling or walking in Middletown, OH:
You have the right of way:
- If traffic signals allow;
- When crossing a road using a crosswalk;
- When walking on sidewalks;
- If you are blind and carrying a plain white cane or a white cane with a red tip;
- If you are being guided by a guide dog.
If you are a cyclist in Middletown, OH, you:
- Have the right of way as any vehicle driver on the road;
- Must drive as close to the right side of the road as possible unless it is unreasonable or dangerous to do so; and
- Must observe all basic traffic rules at all times.
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Common Causes of Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents in Middletown
Pedestrian and bicycle accidents occur due to many reasons. However, most of the time, these accidents occur due to negligence. Examples of negligent actions include:
- Texting while driving
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failure to follow traffic signals and signs
- Driving above the speed limit
- Driving in areas strictly restricted to pedestrians and cyclists
In some cases, these accidents may occur because of negligence by more than one party. For example, unmarked crosswalks could be a sign of negligence from the local authority in charge of maintaining roads. The same applies to poor lighting in areas with high human traffic, especially at night.
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Common Injuries Caused by Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents
These kinds of accidents cause all sorts of injuries. The worst thing about it is that some of these injuries are life-changing. Here are a few examples:
Traumatic Brain Injuries
These injuries occur when the victim takes a massive blow to the end. As a result, they may experience memory loss, seizures, nausea, constant headaches, or permanent brain damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries
These are usually some of the worst injuries. They can lead to partial or permanent paralysis, depending on the severity of the accident.
Damaged Organs
Internal body damage can lead to serious, life-threatening situations. The kidney, lungs, intestines, liver, are some of the most affected organs during such accidents.
Broken Bones
Many pedestrians or cyclists who’ve been injured by negligent drivers suffer broken bones. In most cases, broken bone injuries can be corrected through surgery only if attended to immediately.
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What Do I Do if I’m Injured by a Drunk Driver?
Whether you’re a pedestrian or cyclist, the steps you take after getting injured by a drunk driver will significantly impact your recovery and the claims process. Here are a few points to keep in mind:
- Your health comes first. Call 911 and request an ambulance if you’ve suffered significant injuries.
- Do not attempt to move away from the scene if you’re unable to walk or if it is unsafe to do so.
- When the police arrive, tell them what happened but do not accept responsibility for the accident even if you feel you’re partly to blame.
- If you did not need an ambulance, it’s important that you visit a doctor no later than 14 days after the accident.
- If you suffered significant injuries, you might need to speak with competent pedestrian and bicycle accident lawyers in Middletown.
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Pedestrian and Bicycle Accident Claims Process Explained
When you contact an experienced attorney to fight for you, they will first analyze your case to establish whether you have a valid claim against the other party. After that, the attorney will begin their investigations to help build a strong case against the other party. This process includes collecting or reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, obtaining expert opinions, etc.
Next, the attorney will assess the damages you suffered due to the other party’s negligence. Depending on the nature of your injuries, you may be able to recover the following damages:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Loss of wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Permanent disfigurement
- Cost of future medical expenses
And so much more.
After building a strong case against the other party and evaluating your damages, the attorney will file a formal claim with the driver’s insurer. The insurance company will either accept or reject the claim. Depending on the strength of the case, the two parties may decide to negotiate a reasonable settlement.
However, if both parties fail to agree, the attorney will file a lawsuit in court, bringing the case in front of the judge. The judge will then listen to both sides, review the available evidence, and decide the best way forward. And if they rule against you, your attorney can also file an appeal on your behalf.
How do I Choose the Best Car Accident Lawyer?
There’s no doubt that an attorney can help fight for your rights – all you need to do is find the right one to represent you. When looking for the best attorney, consider the following factors:
- Their experience.
- What other clients say about them.
- Whether they will handle your case directly or outsource it to another attorney or law firm.
- Whether they sound knowledgeable about your specific case.
- Whether they have enough legal resources to fight for you.
How Kruger & Hodges Can Help
When looking for the best pedestrian and bicycle accident lawyers in Middletown, OH, you will most likely come across many options. But some are better than others. At Kruger & Hodges, we are known all over Butler and Warren counties for our experience, compassion, and accessibility,
You are not alone in this fight. Call our Middletown office to schedule a free consultation with someone who cares about you.
Call or text 513-894-3333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form