How to Mitigate Damages After a Bicycle Accident
Cycling is a great way to get in some gentle exercise while reducing your carbon footprint. There is one major drawback, however, and that’s the risk that comes with riding alongside moving traffic.
At the end of the day, cyclists cannot rely on motorists to look out for them, even when they’re traveling within specifically designated bike lanes. As long as they’re following the rules of the road, though, they usually have recourse in the event of an accident.
If you were hurt in a cycling accident and you want to file a claim against the driver who struck you, you should start by taking reasonable measures to mitigate damages. Otherwise, the liable party may be able to shift at least some blame your way. Under Florida’s pure comparative fault rule, that could reduce the amount of money you end up being able to recover.
Wondering how to go about mitigating damages when building your personal injury claim? Read on for some of the most effective strategies:
1. Visit a Doctor Right Away
If you were able to walk away from the scene of the accident, heading to a hospital or urgent care center probably isn’t at the top of your “To Do” list. Even if you don’t feel like you sustained any serious injuries, however, you should undergo a comprehensive evaluation as soon as possible.
For all you know, you’re seriously hurt, but the adrenaline that kicked in after the crash is masking the worst of your symptoms. There are also a number of impact injuries that may not manifest any outward signs for days or even weeks.By seeking care right away, you’re ensuring the prompt treatment of any and all injuries while preventing complications in the process.
2. Follow All Medical Advice
Once you do start treatment, it’s imperative to follow your doctor’s orders diligently. If you’re advised to take it easy, for example, you should not return to a physically demanding job, even if you run out of paid time off. Otherwise, you could end up overexerting yourself and worsening your condition. Should complications arise after you’ve ignored medical advice, the opposing party may be able to pin them on you.
3. Only Get Help with Tasks You Cannot Do Yourself
Florida tort law recognizes the cost of reasonably necessary replacement services as a recoverable damage. Examples include child care, pet care, and domestic help like meal preparation and housekeeping.
The key phrase here is “reasonably necessary.” You must be able to convince the insurance adjuster that you actually needed help with said tasks in order to include the cost of outsourcing them in your claim. That means as your injuries heal, you should make it a point to be increasingly more self-sufficient (as long as it’s in alignment with your doctor’s orders, of course).
Speak with a Florida Bicycle Accident Attorney
Was your life derailed after a motorist crashed into your bike? For help holding them accountable, turn to Emerson Straw.
Our tenacious team will leave no stone unturned when investigating the accident, so we can help you gather the evidence needed to seek justice. Call (727) 821-1500 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free initial consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer in Florida.