Bicycling can be a great way to commute, but it can also be one of the most dangerous transportation methods if you encounter dangerous drivers. Biking has increased in South Carolina, but so has the number of cyclist accidents.
Whether you have been involved in a collision with a motor vehicle or have suffered a fall while biking, the North Charleston personal injury attorneys of MDSW Legal have the experience and knowledge necessary to get you the compensation you deserve.
With a dedicated practice area specifically focused on South Carolina bike accident law, our cyclist accident lawyers can provide the best legal advice and representation for your case. Learn what legal alternatives you have and what determines the value of your settlement.
Bicyclist Rights in North Charleston, South Carolina
If you have questions regarding your rights as a cyclist in South Carolina after being hurt in a bicycle accident, we can help. It’s critical to comprehend the rules and legislation governing cycling so that you can defend your legal rights as a rider.
- Bicyclists generally have the same rights and obligations as drivers of cars, even though bicycles are not considered vehicles in South Carolina.
- Cyclists must ride as far to the right of the road as is practical. When bike lanes are available, cyclists must utilize them; otherwise, they are permitted to ride on the road if there is a nearby recreational bicycle route.
- Except when forbidden by municipal regulation, bicycle riders are allowed to ride on sidewalks, although they must give way to pedestrians at all times. The only exceptions to this rule are bike lanes and sections of the road designated solely for bicycle usage.
- Bicyclists must also indicate when turning or coming to a complete stop, as well as at all stop signs and traffic lights with a red signal.
See a North Charleston bicycle accident lawyer if you’ve been hurt in a bicycle collision, so they can explain your legal options to you and help you navigate the court system.
Injuries and Factors That Impact Your Personal Injury Settlement
If you have been injured in a bike accident in North Charleston, South Carolina, it is important to seek medical help first and legal representation second. A bike accident attorney in North Charleston, SC, can help you recover damages from the accident based on the extent of your injuries and accident-related costs.
Whether you are seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, or other losses, a North Charleston personal injury attorney can work with you to get the best possible outcome for your case. It is important to know that the following injuries impact the amount of your settlement the most:
- Broken bones
- Paralysis
- Brain injuries
- Disfigurement
- Loss of limbs
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial pain of getting into a bicycle accident. We are here to help protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. We are committed to providing personalized service and compassionate care throughout this settlement process.
Why You Need A Bicycle Accident Lawyer On Your Side
While hiring a personal injury lawyer following a bike accident is not required by law, you increase your chances of receiving fair compensation by selecting legal representation to file your claim. Our team has years of experience with bike accidents, and we know how the insurance company works.
Several things can go wrong following a bike accident, and insurance companies often refuse to compensate victims if an attorney does not represent them. The experienced North Charleston bicycle accident lawyers at this firm have helped injured victims get the money they need for years.
Timeline and Restrictions For South Carolina Bicycle Injury Accident Claims
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in South Carolina, you may be wondering how long it will take to settle your case.
As every situation is unique, there is no single answer to this question. However, there are restrictions on how long a victim has before relinquishing their right to seek compensation.
How Long Does a Bicycle Accident Take to Settle?
Settlements in personal injury claims typically take six months to three years, but there is no “average” timeframe. Because of this, it is hard to estimate what an “average” settlement timeline consists of.
The time it takes to settle your case will depend on the severity of your injuries and other factors, such as the complexity of your case and the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate.
Legal Deadlines for South Carolina Bike Accident Claims
According to South Carolina law, anyone who has been harmed by the activity of another party generally has three years to file a personal injury lawsuit to receive compensation for their damages. These could include physical harm, economic loss, and emotional distress. The injured party usually has two years to take action if the claim is made against a government entity.
If you fail to file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations is up in South Carolina, you may forfeit your ability to seek compensation against the person or organization responsible for your losses.
Professional Legal Representation Following a Bicycle Accident
At MDSW Legal, we understand that waiting for a settlement can be difficult and frustrating, and we will do everything possible to get you the compensation you deserve in a timely manner. Our team is dedicated to helping injured cyclists recover the damages they deserve so that they can move forward with their lives.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident in South Carolina, don’t hesitate to contact our office today. We will work diligently to get you the maximum compensation to cover your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, and more. Our knowledgeable bike accident lawyers in North Charleston will review your case and help you pursue the best legal course of action.