How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for bicycle accident claims is generally three years from the accident date. However, the timeline for collisions involving government entities is typically reduced to two years. Don’t wait to start the process, though, as your attorney needs to gather evidence while it’s still fresh. You need to consult an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and start building a solid case.

What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?

If an uninsured driver hits you, you may still have options. Your own auto insurance policy may include uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage that can apply to bicycle accidents. We can help you explore all potential sources of compensation.

Can I still recover damages if I wasn't wearing a helmet?

Yes. Not wearing a helmet when the accident occurred doesn't automatically disqualify you from seeking compensation. However, opposing counsel may try to use this against you, especially for head injuries. Without help from an experienced attorney, it may affect the damages you can recover.

What if the accident was partly my fault?

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages as long as you're not more than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How much is my bicycle accident claim worth?

The value of your claim depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We can provide a more accurate estimate after a thorough review of your case.

Will I have to go to court for my bicycle accident claim?

We settle many bicycle accident claims outside of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to negotiate a fair settlement or acts in bad faith, we’ll be ready to take your case to trial to fight for the compensation you deserve.

What if a road defect caused the bicycle accident?

If a pothole, poorly designed bike lane, or other road defect caused the bicycle crash, we can help you pursue a claim against the government entity responsible for road maintenance. These claims have special requirements and shorter time limits, so you must act quickly.

Can I claim compensation for the damage to my bicycle?

Yes, you can include property damage, including damage to your bicycle and any other personal items, in your claim.

What if the driver left the scene of the accident?

Hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately common in bicycle crashes. Even if the driver can't be identified, you may still have options for compensation through your own insurance or other sources. We can help investigate and explore all possibilities.

How long will it take to resolve my bicycle accident claim?

The timeline for resolving a claim can vary widely depending on the case's complexity, the injuries' severity, and whether the case goes to trial. We strive to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while ensuring you receive fair compensation.

Summerville Bicycle Accident Lawyers

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injury cyclist holding knee with bicycle

Hit while riding your bike in Summerville? You’re likely grappling with physical pain, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills. Thankfully, you’ve come to the right place. Joye Law Firm is here to help.

To obtain compensation for your injuries and losses, you need an experienced Summerville bicycle accident lawyer to help you navigate the complex claims process and fight to maximize your financial recovery.

Joye Law Firm’s Summerville office is located right on Main Street and our local bicycle accident attorneys are here to support you and help you get the compensation you deserve.

We have extensive experience handling bicycle accident claims for clients throughout South Carolina, and we’ve obtained substantial settlements and verdicts for individuals and families hurt by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. In fact, the head of our Summerville office, Attorney Jeff Gerardi, was featured in the Post & Courier for his stellar legal work in representing a man killed in a bicycle accident…insert case study. This case study highlights not only Jeff’s incredible legal skills, but also showcases the caring, compassion, and concern he brings to every case.

FREE CASE EVALUATION

What Causes Most Bicycle Accidents in Summerville?

While each accident is unique, some common factors contribute to bicycle collisions in Lowcountry communities like Summerville, Goose Creek, and Ladson:

Distracted driving
Failure to yield the right of way
Dooring incidents
Impaired driving
Speeding
Drivers not watching out for cyclists

Other causes of bicycle accidents, in addition to negligent drivers, include poor road conditions, such as potholes and uneven surfaces, and inadequate bike lanes and infrastructure. Most of the growing communities in our area are not bike-friendly. As populations have soared, they’ve failed to keep up with infrastructure to support safe bike usage. This has forced bicyclists, from seasoned cyclers to novice hobbyists, into dangerous proximity to traffic and without safe riding lanes or intersections.

Our role is to investigate thoroughly and establish the true cause of your accident to ensure you receive fair compensation.

What Are Common Bicycle Accident Injuries?

A wide range of injuries can result from bicycle accidents including:

Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Even with helmet use, cyclists are vulnerable to concussions and more severe brain trauma.
Spinal cord injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis, dramatically altering a person’s life.
Fractures and broken bones: Particularly common in the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones.
Road rash: Severe skin abrasions can lead to infections if not properly treated.
Internal injuries: Including damage to organs, internal bleeding, and other hidden traumas.
Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Facial injuries: Including dental damage, eye injuries, and facial fractures.
Psychological trauma: Many people involved in bicycle accidents experience PTSD, anxiety, or depression following a crash.

At Joye Law Firm, we work to properly document and account for all your injuries—both visible and hidden—to seek maximum compensation on your behalf.

Why Choose Joye Law Firm for Your Summerville Bicycle Accident Claim

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a bicycle accident, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference.

Here’s why Summerville residents trust Joye Law Firm:

Local knowledge: We understand the roads, traffic patterns, and local laws in Dorchester and Berkeley County that can impact your case.
Proven track record: Our firm has a history of successful outcomes for bicycle accident victims.
Team approach: Every client benefits from the collective wisdom, and experience of all our personal injury attorneys. Our case evaluation process, which is unique to Joye Law Firm, ensures that your case receives the best strategies and insights from our entire legal team.
Personal attention: We treat each client as an individual, not just another case number.
Resources: We have the financial and investigative resources to build a strong case on your behalf.
Negotiation skills: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who know how to deal with insurance companies – and they know our reputation. We won’t back down when it comes to fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Trial experience: With extensive trial experience, we know how to present a compelling case in court. We’re ready to go the distance and help guide you through every step of the trial process.
No Fee Guarantee: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any attorney fees unless we negotiate a favorable settlement or win your case at trial.
Compassionate approach: We understand an accident’s physical and emotional toll and provide support throughout the process.
Clear communication: We keep you informed at every stage of your case and are always available to answer your questions.
Community involvement: Our firm is deeply rooted in the Summerville community and committed to making it safer for cyclists.

At Joye Law Firm, we’re not just your legal representatives – we’re your advocates, your support system, and your partners in seeking justice.

How We Can Help You Get Compensation

Securing fair compensation after a bicycle accident involves navigating complex legal and insurance processes.

Here’s how Joye Law Firm can help:

To build a strong case, we’ll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and, when necessary, work with accident reconstruction experts, medical experts, economists, and other professionals to support your claim.
We’ll calculate all your current and future losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies, protecting you from tactics they might use to undervalue your claim.
Whether during settlement negotiations or in court, we’ll advocate fiercely for your rights and interests.
We’ll work to reduce any medical liens on your settlement, maximizing the amount you take home.
We’ll ensure all necessary legal actions are taken within South Carolina’s time limits for filing claims.
If appropriate, we can explore mediation or arbitration as alternatives to a lengthy court process.
If the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement, we’ll take them to court and sue for the money you need.
We’ll connect you with local organizations that can provide ongoing support during your case and after it’s resolved.
Throughout the process, we’ll offer guidance and support, helping you navigate this challenging time.

Our goal is to secure the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. We work to ensure you have the resources you need to recover and move forward with your life.