In Houston, some of the most hazardous areas for bicyclists include busy intersections in the downtown and midtown areas, as well as on major thoroughfares such as Westheimer Road, and lesser-served areas like Spring Branch and Gulfton. When these accidents occur as a result of a driver’s negligence, an injured bicyclist may be eligible to seek compensation through a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver’s liability insurance coverage. To have a successful claim, the claimant and their bike wreck attorney must be able to prove that the driver was responsible for causing the accident and show the cost of the harm that the bicyclist incurred.
Commonly used evidence in Houston bicycle accident claims includes information gathered at the scene, as well as medical records and much more. Here is a look at the types of evidence that may be available and why it is needed.
Evidence Used to Determine Fault
When a bicycle accident occurs due to a driver’s negligence and a claim is filed against their insurance coverage, the insurance provider will evaluate the claim to determine whether the insured person was at fault. One type of evidence they may use in a Houston case is a police report with a narrative provided by the investigating officer as to how the bicycle accident occurred, based on their investigation. Witness testimony may also be used, with eyewitnesses providing an account of what they saw, while expert witnesses who specialize in accident reconstruction may be called in complex cases to shed an unbiased and technical light on certain aspects of the crash. Additionally, video surveillance from cameras in the area may show the accident or conditions just before the accident.
Evidence Used to Justify the Claim’s Value
Once an experienced lawyer handling a claim has gathered the evidence needed to establish fault, they also need to gather evidence to prove the monetary value of the compensation that the bicyclist is seeking. This generally includes items showing the cost of medical treatment, such as medical bills, as well as doctors’ notes and medical records that may document long-term injuries that will likely need ongoing medical treatment. Evidence showing a loss of earnings, such as employment records or financial statements, is also commonly used as evidence in Houston bicycle collision cases. Receipts for other costs related to the injury, such as home modifications needed to accommodate permanent injuries, travel for medical treatments, or even personal care and other services, are also beneficial for a claim.
Because permanent injuries can cause not only a need for continued medical care but also a loss of earning capacity, expert witnesses are often called to explain the likely future impacts of the injury. These include not only financial impacts but quality-of-life impacts as well.
Learn More About Commonly Used Evidence in Houston Bike Crash Claims – Contact KGS Law PLLC
KGS Law PLLC understands how overwhelming being injured in an accident and contemplating filing a claim can be. We want to give you the information you need to effectively seek compensation after a bicycle accident. Contact us today to learn more about commonly used evidence in Houston bicycle accident claims.