Riding a bicycle can be a great way to get where you need to go in an efficient manner, but it can also put you at risk for being involved in an accident where you are hit by a car for something that’s not your fault. Keep reading to understand more what to do in this common but often frightening situation so you’ll feel more equipped to pursue your options.

Firstly, it’s important to realize that bicyclists have largely the same rights as motorists who are injured in accidents of their own. The main difference is, whereas drivers are required to carry car insurance in most states, that does not apply to people who ride bicycles.

No-Fault States

There are about 12 states that are considered ‘no fault’ areas, meaning you cannot take action against a driver who is at fault for an accident. In most cases though, you can file an accident claim with the insurance company associated with the driver who caused the accident. This is called a third-party claim.

Alternatively, you may have car insurance that comes with a special type of coverage called personal injury protection, or PIP. In that case, you may be able to file a claim under your own insurance.

Getting Help From Legal Professionals

Understandably, you may not be sure how to take legal action against someone who has hurt you through no fault of your own. Being injured in an accident is almost always overwhelming, and that’s especially true if you were following all the rules of the road as a responsible bicyclist but still got hurt. For further guidance on this complex matter, get the advice of a bicycle accident lawyer that focuses on cases in your community. A bicycle accident attorney can answer all your questions and give advice about the strength of your claim as well as the potential weaknesses.

Another advantage of working with a bicycle accident attorney is that they will guide you through every step of the process and offer excellent peace of mind in a situation that otherwise seems very uncertain. If you have suffered a bicycle accident due to another person’s negligence, make the smart decision to talk to a bicycle accident lawyer, even if it’s only to get a consultation about the avenues you could pursue. Information is extremely powerful in legal situations, and you owe it to yourself to be as informed as possible while moving forward.