Could You Need a Bicycle Accident Attorney?
Due to the complexity of the legal system, it is often very difficult for the average person to get a clear idea of what their rights might actually be and what recourse they have following an accident where they were injured due to the fault of another. An experienced bicycle accident attorney should analyze an accident involving a cyclist. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, contact Attorney Group today for a no obligation, free consultation. We can answer your questions regarding your individual case and connect you to an affiliated bicycle accident attorney for representation.
Civil Liability With Criminal Charges
The case of a Manitowoc, Wisconsin man best exemplifies some of the complications that can surround a bicycle accident case. Steven Gove was struck by a drunken motorist while bicycling on his three-wheeled delivery bike, clad in reflective garb. The 20-year-old motorist was drunk enough that it never registered that Gove was lodged in his windshield even after the 56-year-old newspaper carrier greeted him with- “Hello, I’m the guy you hit on the bicycle.”
It wasn’t until the man arrived home that he finally noticed that Gove was lodged in his windshield. Gove said the man responded with panic. He allegedly asked, “Who are you? What are you doing in my car?” and repeated, “I’m going to jail. I’m going to jail.” over and over to himself in a panic. The man then left Gove and went into his house. By that time, Gove had slipped most of the way through the windshield. He was able to pull his legs into the car.
“I righted myself and got out. I unlocked the passenger’s side door and started walking down the street,” Gove recalled. A witness had called police about the incident. Gove was found by the police as he was walking and taken to a hospital. The care he received included having glass removed from his eyes and treatment for lacerations on his leg and head.
The 20 year old man who allegedly struck Gove will likely face charges of failure to render aid, hit and run, and drunken driving. These are all criminal charges. Additionally, a separate civil action will likely be brought in the form of a lawsuit by a bicycle accident attorney to seek compensation for Gove. The bicycle accident attorney need only establish that the person acted in a reckless, malicious, negligent, or otherwise at fault manner.
Criminal Liability and Civil Liability are Different
Regardless of the outcome of the criminal case against the 20 year old, there is likely an actionable case that a bicycle accident attorney can pursue due to the pain and suffering, loss of income, medical expenses, and the impact on the future income of Gove. That is where a bicycle accident attorney helps protect the rights of victims like Gove.
Need a Bicycle Accident Attorney?
Attorney Group helps connect people in need of representation with experienced, affiliated attorneys. Contact AIAG for a no obligation consultation about your case. We can help you determine if there is an actionable case and connect you with an experienced, affiliated bicycle accident attorney. You may eligible to seek damages for the expenses incurred from the accident as well as your pain and suffering. Contact the American Injury Attorney group today if you or your loved one was hurt or killed.
