Bicycling is a popular way to commute, exercise, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Bellevue, Washington. But when a pleasant ride turns into a serious accident, many injured cyclists are left wondering what steps to take next—and whether they need legal representation. At Premier Law Group, our experienced Bellevue personal injury attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the recovery process. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, here’s what you need to know.
What Are Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Bellevue?
Bellevue’s growing population and expanding network of bike lanes make it a more bike-friendly city than ever before—but accidents still happen. Common causes of bicycle accidents in Bellevue include:
- Driver Inattention or Distraction: Motorists texting or failing to check blind spots often overlook cyclists.
- Failure to Yield: At intersections, drivers may ignore the cyclist’s right-of-way.
- Unsafe Lane Changes or Turns: Especially dangerous at intersections and driveways.
- Dooring: When a parked car’s door is opened into a cyclist’s path.
- Poor Road Conditions: Cracks, potholes, and debris are particularly hazardous for cyclists.
Each of these scenarios can lead to severe injuries, and proving the cause is key to building a strong personal injury case.
How Can a Bellevue Bike Accident Lawyer Help Prove Driver Negligence?
Proving negligence after a bicycle accident isn’t always straightforward. Insurance companies may downplay your injuries or even blame you for the crash. A seasoned Bellevue bicycle accident lawyer from Premier Law Group will:
- Investigate the Accident Scene: Collect police reports, witness statements, and video footage.
- Hire Accident Reconstruction Experts: To analyze how the crash occurred.
- Examine the Driver’s Behavior: Looking for signs of distracted driving, speeding, or impairment.
- Handle All Insurance Communications: To ensure you don’t say anything that could hurt your claim.
With a trusted attorney by your side, you stand a much better chance of recovering full compensation.
Do I Still Have a Case If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
Yes, you may still have a case even if you weren’t wearing a helmet. Washington law encourages helmet use, but failing to wear one does not automatically bar you from recovering damages. In some cases, the insurance company might try to argue that your injuries would have been less severe with a helmet, but this doesn’t absolve the at-fault party of responsibility. A skilled attorney can push back against these tactics and work to maximize your recovery.
What If a Road Hazard Caused My Bicycle Accident in Bellevue?
If your accident was caused by a hazardous road condition—such as a pothole, uneven pavement, or poor signage—you might have a claim against a government agency or another responsible party. These claims are complex and involve tight deadlines under Washington’s laws for filing against public entities. Premier Law Group has experience handling municipal liability claims and can ensure your case is filed correctly and on time.
Why Should I Speak With a Bellevue Lawyer Before Accepting a Settlement?
Insurance companies often move quickly to offer low settlements to injured cyclists—hoping you’ll accept before fully understanding the extent of your injuries or your rights. These early offers rarely cover long-term medical care, lost wages, or the pain and suffering you’ve endured. A Bellevue personal injury lawyer can:
- Review the offer to see if it’s fair.
- Help you understand your case’s full value.
- Negotiate a better settlement on your behalf.
- Take the case to court if necessary.
Don’t let an insurance company pressure you into a settlement that doesn’t meet your needs.
Contact Premier Law Group for a FREE Claim Review
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Bellevue, don’t face the legal system alone. The team at Premier Law Group is ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us today for a FREE claim review.
Jason at premier law group is truly an outstanding individual. Our particular case was not something that their firm usually sees but they were more than willing to help us and give us all of the information they had available. I can't recommend them enough.