Pedestrian or Cyclist Accidents

Let us answer your pedestrian or cyclist legal questions…

Personal injuries caused by pedestrian and bicycle accidents can be among the most devastating because they can involve an impact between a vehicle and a person. If you’ve been involved in an accident due to distracted driving, poor road conditions, or any other cause, it’s time to seek the help of a personal injury lawyer in Alberta or British Columbia. Take a look at what everyone needs to know after a pedestrian or cycling collision.

What You Need to Know After You’ve Been Involved in a Bicycle Accident

Motor vehicle accidents involving cars and cyclists happen frequently and year-round throughout Alberta and British Columbia. Generally, cyclists are subjected to all of the same rules that are applicable to drivers. That means they are responsible for adhering to speed limits, road signs, traffic signals, and rules for distracted driving. Failure to follow all local protocols in place in locations where you’re cycling will be considered by insurance companies if an accident occurs. What should you do if you’re involved in a bicycle accident in Alberta or British Columbia? Here’s what you need to know:

• Like all motor vehicle accidents, an accident involving a bicycle should be reported to the police immediately.
• You should also receive medical attention for any injuries that are sustained.
• Get insurance information from the other party involved.
• Get contact information for any witnesses.
• Take photos of the accident scene.
• Take notes of anything you remember about the events leading up to the accident while they’re still fresh in your memory.
• Document any injuries you’ve sustained.

In some cases, the other party involved may be quick to offer you a settlement option on the spot. You may also be contacted directly by the other party’s insurance company immediately after the accident. It’s best to wait to consider any options until you’ve spoken with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Alberta or British Columbia.  Davie & Associates has offices located in Red Deer, Edmonton and Penticton, where you can meet with our personal injury lawyers to discuss your case.

Who Is Responsible for a Pedestrian Accident?

Generally, drivers are responsible for collisions between vehicles and pedestrians. However, the circumstances of every accident will be considered when accident claims are made. If a pedestrian is violating traffic laws by walking beyond a crosswalk, ignoring a traffic signal, or acting under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it’s possible that the driver may not be found liable.

Let us answer your pedestrian or cyclist legal questions…

What Is the Potential Liability for Hitting a Pedestrian?

Determining liability for pedestrian accidents can be complex. In some cases, poorly maintained streets, roads, or highways may be factors. When drivers are found to be at fault, the reasons usually include:

• Distracted driving.
• Failure to respect road rules.
• Driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol, and other illegal substances.
• Failure to signal.
• Excessive speed.

When a driver is at fault, the pedestrian may be entitled to compensation. Compensation may be awarded to cover costs related to physical pain, injury, scarring, disfigurement, and emotional suffering caused by an accident. In addition, claims can cover medical expenses, lost wages, dental expenses, property damage, and counseling.

If a pedestrian is the victim of a hit-and-run accident, this is considered a crime. Law enforcement will make every effort to track down the driver. The victim may be eligible to make a claim using the Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Program (MVAC) as a way to seek compensation for injuries. Once the driver is found, the victim may bring forth a civil case.

Who Is at Fault When a Bike Hits a Car?

Liability for bicycle accidents that involve a bike striking a car is determined on a case-by-case basis. If a bicyclist hits a car while following all road rules, it may be determined that the driver violated traffic laws to cause the collision. However, cyclists may be found responsible if it’s determined that they ignored rules of the road, failed to follow standard safe biking practices, or acted in a negligent way. If a cyclist has ignored any local safety protocols, this will be taken into account when determining liability for injuries.

Personal Injury Lawyers for Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents

Contact Davie & Associates now if you need help filing a personal injury claim for a bicycle or pedestrian accident in Alberta or British Columbia. Offering convenient office locations in Red Deer, Edmonton and Penticton, our law office specializes in personal injury cases of all varieties. We can help you gather all the facts in your case to determine the best option for pursuing compensation to cover costs associated with injuries, suffering, rehabilitation, emotional distress, and loss of income. Rest assured that we’ll give your case the personal attention it deserves. Don’t let the complexity of accident laws in Alberta and British Columbia stop you from pursuing the compensation you’re entitled to receive.  Request a free consultation with Davie & Associates today.

Let us answer your pedestrian or cyclist legal questions…