This is the last post in a series discussing bicycle accident cases in Peoria, Illinois. Unexpected accidents can be devastating to seriously injured victims and their families. When tragedy strikes, legal action may be the last thing on your mind. It is important, however, to quickly retain a trusted attorney with experience in such matters to help ensure that your legal rights are protected. The goals of this series were to provide general information about how bicycle cases are handled in Illinois, the rights of victims and their families, and assistance in selecting a lawyer to assist them through the process. If you need assistance following a bike accident, contact my office today to speak with an attorney.
This series focused on the following key topics:
- How Illinois’ comparative fault laws impact a bicycle accident case
- Dealing with insurance companies after a bike crash injury
- The importance of discovery in such matters
- The need for expert witnesses in bicycle accident cases
- What to expect at a bicycle accident trial
- The determination of a victim’s damages
I felt it was important to discuss these issues for several reasons. First, Illinois’ comparative fault laws permit victims who are partially responsible for an accident to recover a portion of their damages. The victim must bear fifty percent or less of the liability to recover. For obvious reasons, this issue can become hotly contested in bike accident litigation. Second, mistakes when dealing with insurance companies can leave victims and their families with an unsatisfactory and legally binding settlement agreement. It is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after an accident to communicate with the adjuster on your behalf. Third, discovery, or the process of gathering evidence from various third parties, is an essential part of any bicycle accident case. Your attorney must understand the process and how best to build your case through the discovery tools that are available. Fourth, it is not uncommon for both parties in such cases to engage one or more expert witnesses. This is particularly true when the victim’s injuries are serious and medical or financial experts are required to establish damages. Fifth, if the case does not settle, it may proceed to a jury trial. It is important to have a general understanding of what to expect during that process. Finally, determining a victim’s damages can be challenging and may involve various elements, such as anticipating future medical treatments, long-term care, or the loss of potential future earnings. It is important to carefully evaluate all possible damages to ensure that victims receive the compensation to which they may be entitled.
I have extensive experience representing residents who have been injured and am ready to assist you. Contact my Peoria office today. Our firm also serves clients in the Illinois cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington.
