Were you or a family member injured in a bicycle accident in Brantford, Ontario? If so, the dedicated legal team at Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers can identify every potential option for financial recovery.
Our Brantford bicycle accident lawyers have over nine decades of combined legal experience. We’ve leveraged our knowledge, resources, and skills to secure $100+ million for our clients – and we’re prepared to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact our Brantford personal injury law firm at (226)-401-5433 or reach us online to request a free consultation. During your appointment, you can discuss your bicycle collision and options with an experienced personal injury lawyer.
How Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help With a Bicycle Accident Case in Brantford, Ontario
The aftermath of a bicycle accident can be devastating. You may suffer financial losses, physical harm, and mental trauma. Luckily, you don’t have to handle your legal claim alone. Let Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers help in your pursuit of compensation.
Our experienced lawyers know how to deal with insurance companies and at-fault parties. We can advocate for you while you focus on your medical care and healing.
If you hire our Brantford personal injury lawyers to handle your bicycle accident claim, we’ll:
- Ensure that you receive proper medical services
- Investigate what caused your bike crash and determine who’s liable for your damages
- Consult experts and collect evidence to strengthen and prove your personal injury case
- Calculate the full extent of your pecuniary and non-pecuniary losses
- Protect your right to fair compensation
- Negotiate and communicate with insurance companies and other involved parties
- Handle all filings in a timely manner
- Take your bicycle accident case to court if necessary
There is limited time to act after a bicycle accident in Ontario. The quicker you obtain legal representation, the stronger your case will be. Contact our office for a free case evaluation with a qualified bicycle accident lawyer in Brantford, ON.
How Common Are Bicycle Collisions in Brantford?
According to the City of Brantford’s latest Annual Collision Report, 18 cyclist accidents occurred in 2021. That’s one collision every 20 days. This represented a 25% decrease from 2020 and a 45% decrease from 2019.
No Brantford bicyclists were killed in a collision in 2021. However, around 68% of these accidents resulted in an injury.
What Causes Most Bicycle Crashes in Brantford, ON?
The 2021 Annual Collision Report noted that a majority of Brantford bicycle collisions – nearly 79% – occurred at intersections. Running red lights and failing to follow provincial right-of-way laws are the root causes of these intersection accidents. Sadly, these represent negligent behaviors that could be avoided if drivers and cyclists exercise reasonable caution.
Some of the most common causes of bicycle collisions in Brantford include:
- Distracted driving or cycling
- Disobeying traffic controls
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Improper passing
- Improper or illegal turns
- Drunk driving or riding
- Speeding
- Dooring
- Aggressive driving
It’s important to determine the cause of your bike accident so that you can identify the responsible party. Call us for help with your case.
How Much Is My Brantford Bicycle Accident Claim Worth?
The value of your Brantford bicycle accident case will depend on your unique circumstances. No two victims or collisions are the same.
When we’re assessing your personal injury claim, we’ll evaluate several factors, including:
- The type and severity of your bicycle accident injuries
- Whether you’re expected to fully recover from your injuries
- The value of your financial losses, including medical bills and lost wages
- Whether you’re able to continue earning the same income as before the bike accident
- The psychological and physical effects you’ve experienced
- The nature of your accident and how it occurred (for example, a motor vehicle accident versus a defective bicycle part)
- Whether you contributed in any way to the incident
It’s crucial to know what your claim is worth before you accept any offer from an insurance company or opposing party. Working with a skilled Brantford personal injury lawyer is the best way to ensure a fair result in your case.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Bicycle Accident in Brantford, Ontario?
Brantford bicycle accident victims may be entitled to compensation for their pecuniary and non-pecuniary damages.
Pecuniary damages are monetary losses that can be quantified using receipts, bills, and other documents; they can include:
- Medical expenses you’ve incurred
- Physical therapy
- Lost income
- Future medical costs if you require ongoing care
- Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
- Property damage, such as if you need to repair or replace your bicycle
- Reduced earning capacity
Non-pecuniary damages are personal to each accident victim. They aren’t as easily measurable due to their intangible nature.
Examples include:
- Mental distress, such as PTSD
- Pain and suffering
- Damaged relationships
- Diminished quality of life
- Long-term disability
Our personal injury lawyers in Brantford will calculate the full extent of your losses, including future damages. Call today for a free case consultation to learn more.
Can I Recover Compensation If I’m Blamed for My Bicycle Accident in Brantford, Ontario?
In some cases, the bicycle accident victim shares responsibility for a collision. Ontario’s contributory negligence statute applies in these situations.
Under this law, each party is assigned a percentage of fault. Your awarded compensation will be reduced by that percentage.
For example, suppose a court determines that you’re 40% responsible for a bike crash. The other party would be financially accountable for 60% of your damages.
If you’re being blamed for a bicycle accident, seek help from a qualified lawyer right away. We’ll advocate on your behalf and ensure that you aren’t taken advantage of.
What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident in Brantford?
It’s important to take certain steps after a bike collision to protect your well-being and legal rights.
Consider doing the following to safeguard yourself:
- Call the police to notify them of the bicycle accident. You’re required by law to report any traffic collision that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $2,000. Request emergency assistance if you’re injured, even if you think it’s a minor injury.
- Exchange information with involved parties, such as the at-fault driver. Get their name, address, insurance information, license plate number, and phone number. Request contact information from any witnesses, as well.
- Gather evidence if possible. For example, take videos and pictures of your damaged bicycle, the vehicle that struck you, traffic conditions, and any other relevant details.
- If you aren’t transported to a hospital from the bike crash scene, visit a medical professional. Your shock and adrenaline may mask symptoms of an injury. Plus, your medical record will be useful to prove that any injuries occurred due to the accident.
Consider speaking to an experienced accident lawyer as soon as possible. Insurance can be complicated after a bicycle collision. For example, you may be entitled to statutory accident benefits. Or, if no involved party has auto insurance, you may be able to seek compensation through the Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund.
Your lawyer will be able to identify the potential financial options available. They can also handle the legal process from start to finish and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve under Ontario law.
Common Injuries Sustained in Bicycle Accidents
Car accidents involving bicyclists can cause various injuries, depending on the vehicle’s speed at impact and other factors. Some accidents involve a car colliding with a bicycle, while others involve a bicyclist being knocked down. Or, a dangerous property condition – such as a deep pothole – could cause a crash.
Any of these scenarios can lead to life-changing injuries that require prompt medical treatment.
Our experienced bicycle accident lawyers can help injured cyclists who have suffered:
- Soft tissue injuries, including scrapes, road rash, and sprains
- Broken bones
- Back injuries
- Leg injuries
- Neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions
- Nerve damage
- Chest injuries
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
- Amputations
- Internal organ damage
We can also help you file a wrongful death lawsuit if you tragically lost a loved one in a fatal bicycle collision. We’re here to provide compassionate support and guidance if you’re struggling financially in the aftermath of a family member’s death.
How Long Do I Have To File a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit in Ontario?
Injured bicyclists in Ontario have limited time to file a personal injury lawsuit due to the Limitations Act. Under this law, you’re typically subject to a two-year limitations period. That means you’ll have two years from the bicycle collision date to file your lawsuit.
Limited exceptions may change this time limit. Additionally, you may be subject to other deadlines. For example, notice of claims for some accident benefits must be made within seven days of the crash.
Don’t risk losing your chance to recover compensation for your bicycle accident injuries. Contact our law office today for immediate guidance.
Schedule a Free Case Assessment With Our Experienced Brantford Bicycle Accident Lawyers
If you sustained injuries in a bicycle crash, Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers can help. We have the experience you’ll want on your side as you navigate the complexities of filing a claim.
Call our Brantford bicycle accident lawyers for a free initial consultation to learn more about the benefits of legal representation.