If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Nevada, you have the same rights and legal protections as if you had been operating a motor vehicle.  If you own a car or truck that was insured at the time of the bicycle collision, you may also have medical payment coverage, which can be used to pay the medical expenses that arose from the accident.  If the other driver was at fault, his or her insurance company may also be responsible for reimbursing you for your reasonably necessary past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost wages, loss of the quality and enjoyment of life, as well as other damages.  Please do not delay in seeking medical treatment.  All accidents are different and you should consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible, to determine and protect your legal rights.

Time is of the essence after a bicycle accident, and it’s important that witness statements are promptly obtained; that  video footage of the accident scene is taken and preserved; and that a full investigation of the occurrence is initiated early on.  The unfortunate reality is that the insurance companies for the people who caused the accident will investigate the crash very quickly and work on “damage control.”  The adjuster who is assigned to the claim will also try to contact you as soon as possible to obtain a recorded statement.  You are NOT obligated to give such a statement (nor should you), as recorded statements and interviews are for the insurance company’s benefit – not yours.

While most drivers generally watch out for other vehicles, they tend not to pay as much attention to bicyclists and motorcyclists.  Accidents involving people on bicycles and motorcycles are also generally much more serious, since the riders have far less protection than occupants who are wearing their seatbelts inside motor vehicles. 

In one of the many bicycle cases Mr. Achrem handled, an off-duty Henderson police officer was riding her road bike along Boulder Highway, in Henderson, Nevada when a motor vehicle suddenly came out of a driveway without stopping.  Although she braked as quickly as she could, the bicycle struck the left front of the vehicle and the police officer flew over it, shattering several bones in the process.  Mr. Achrem was able to obtain the full policy limits from both the vehicle owner’s insurance company and his own client’s carrier.

Before you give a statement to anyone after an accident, you should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney first.  At Edward J. Achrem & Associates, the consultation is always free and we can usually tell you over the phone if you have a good case. If you need our help, dial (702) 734-3936. If you’re outside Nevada, dial (888) 734-6789.