3 Important Factors to Consider Before Settling a Florida Bicycle Accident Claim
Riding a bicycle in Florida, which has the highest per capita rate of fatal bike accidents in the country, can often lead to very serious injuries. If you’ve been injured in a Florida bicycle accident, the defendant’s insurance company might offer you a quick settlement—which you could be tempted to accept. Before you do, however, you should consider the following factors to be sure you’re getting the compensation you deserve for your damages.
Are You Fully Recovered From Your Bicycle Accident Injuries?
If you accept a settlement from the at-fault party’s insurance company before you’ve recovered fully, and your medical expenses and lost wages turn out to be greater than you expected, you may not ask for any more compensation. You can’t be sure what your long-term damages will be until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement, or your healthcare providers can estimate the cost of your long-term care and future time off work.
For these reasons, it is never a good idea to jump at the first settlement you’re offered by an insurance adjuster. Don’t be in a hurry to settle your claim. When the time is right, your attorney can negotiate a fair settlement for you.
How Has the Bicycle Accident Affected Your Life?
In addition to your physical injuries and lost wages, your pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life can add to the value of your claim. You might suffer long-term physical discomfort or be unable to enjoy favorite hobbies or family activities. You might also suffer emotional trauma, depression, or anxiety as a result of your accident.
If the defendant who injured you was violating a law when the accident happened, that violation might increase the amount of your award. An experienced attorney can determine the monetary worth of such damages, which can be significant.
Have You Accidentally Made Statements That Hurt Your Case?
If you are approached by an insurance adjuster and asked to accept a settlement or sign anything at all, refer the adjuster to your attorney. Sign nothing other than documents required by the police.
Do not post photos or statements about your accident or injuries on social media. Doing so could hurt your case. Consulting in confidence with an attorney and allowing your lawyer to do the talking and negotiating for you will lead to the fairest settlement.
Have You Been Injured in a Florida Bicycle Accident?
Take the first step toward protecting your right to fair compensation by consulting an experienced bicycle accident attorney right away. Please contact us online, start a chat, or call our Coral Springs office directly at 954.755.7803 to schedule your free consultation. We take cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no attorney fees until we win your case.
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