Bicycles offer a convenient, eco-friendly way to navigate Atlanta’s streets, but they also leave riders vulnerable to devastating accidents. When a cyclist’s life is cut short due to a driver’s negligence, families are left to grapple with profound loss, unexpected financial burdens, and a desire for justice.
If you lost a loved one in a bicycle accident, you have the right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against the person responsible. This process can be complex, which is why you should consider hiring an Atlanta wrongful death attorney.
Common Causes of Fatal Bicycle Accidents in Atlanta
Multiple parties may bear responsibility for a fatal bicycle accident, depending on the circumstances. Negligent drivers are often at fault, but liability can also extend to government entities for poor road maintenance, bicycle manufacturers for defective equipment, or even property owners for hazardous conditions.
Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:
- Distracted Driving: Motorists who text, eat, or engage in other distracting activities while driving pose a major threat to cyclists. They may fail to notice riders during their drive, leading to deadly accidents.
- Dooring Accidents: Occupants of parked vehicles may open their doors without checking for approaching cyclists. This sudden obstacle can force riders to crash into the door or swerve into traffic.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers may ignore cyclists’ right of way, especially at intersections or when making turns. This negligence often results in serious, high-impact accidents that can be fatal for cyclists.
- Dangerous Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, inadequate bicycle lanes, or hazardous construction zones can make a bike ride dangerous. For example, cyclists may ride over potholes, lose control of their bikes, and fall into the path of oncoming traffic.
How Can an Attorney Support Your Wrongful Death Claim?
After a fatal bicycle accident, you deserve justice for the loss of your loved one. Wrongful death lawsuits can provide a pathway to accountability and fair compensation, but these cases can be quite complex. An Atlanta personal injury lawyer can handle these complexities on your family’s behalf so that you can focus on what matters most: remembering your loved one.
Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering crucial evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to build a strong case. They will also handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel so that you are protected from tactics and strategies that intend to minimize your claim.
Calculating damages in a wrongful death claim can be complicated. An attorney can help calculate the full extent of these losses so that your family’s damages are fully accounted for. They may work with economic experts to project future lost income and benefits. Your lawyer will also use established formulas and precedents to quantify intangible damages like loss of companionship.
Consult with an Atlanta Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
Losing a loved one in a bicycle accident leaves families facing difficult questions and decisions. Monge & Associates provides clear guidance through this challenging time. We combine thorough investigation with strong legal advocacy to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. Contact our wrongful death lawyers at (888) 653-0605 for a free consultation and learn more about your legal options today.