As commuters become more health conscious, and environmentally and financially-minded, bicycling to and from work is growing in popularity. Of course, with more bikes on the roads, there are also more bicycle accidents. Depending on the circumstances of a bicycle accident, you may find yourself filing an insurance claim or even a personal injury lawsuit. Contact a Boston Bicycle Accident Attorney Today.
If you are seriously injured in a bicycle accident involving a motor vehicle, you should consult with a Boston personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Time is of the essence with personal injury claims. If you have visible injuries, they should be photographed and documented before they fade away. Memories often fade just as easily. Document every detail you possibly can; photograph the location of the accident from multiple angles, and write down witness statements and contact info. It’s also important to exchange insurance information with other parties involved, even if you don’t suspect property damage or injuries. It may take several hours, or even days, for injuries to become apparent.
Auto Insurance Personal Injury Protection
In most places, bicyclists don’t need to purchase insurance the way motor vehicle drivers do. However, cyclists are not without coverage options. Insurance policies designed specifically for bicyclists exist, as do bicycle-accident provisions in some automobile and homeowner’s insurance policies. If, for example, you live in a no-fault state, you can obtain bicycle-accident coverage through auto insurance personal injury protection. You are also likely covered for injuries under your existing health insurance policy, but that coverage may come with an excessively high deductible. If, for example, your health insurance plan has a $10,000 deductible, you may not have any coverage for medical expenses until you’ve reached that threshold. For many people, this can spell financial disaster.
Bicycle Insurance Coverage Options
Two companies that have designed insurance coverage specifically for bicyclists are Spoke and Velosurance. Policyholders can choose from basic options, such as coverage for damage to the bike itself and rental reimbursement, as well as up to $10,000 of coverage for medical payments and $100,000 of coverage for liability. These policies can provide a significant benefit to avid cyclists, but what if you’re seriously injured? Insurance coverage isn’t always enough. If another party was at fault, you may be entitled to additional compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, property damage, lost wages, and other associated costs.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Bicycle Accident Lawyers Serving Boston and the Surrounding Areas
At the end of the day, it’s in your best interest to consult with a personal injury lawyer if you’ve been injured in any type of accident. Trying to sift through health, auto, and homeowner’s insurance policies to determine what kinds of property damage and injuries are covered can be a nightmare. Dealing with insurance companies is rarely an enjoyable experience. The bicycle accident lawyers at Altman & Altman, LLP have extensive experience with insurance companies. We are happy to take that burden off your shoulders so that you can focus on recovery. In addition, if another person was at fault, you may be entitled to additional funds. Don’t go through this alone. We will make sure you understand your rights and options before moving forward. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.