What is the average bicycle accident settlement in Virginia? While every accident is different, the average bicycle accident settlement in Virginia ranges based on the severity of injuries, emotional trauma involved, length of time unable to work, and more. In situations where a person loses their life, losses may be much higher.
Various factors play a role in determining the value of a bicycle accident settlement, and a Charlottesville bicycle accident lawyer can be of assistance.
Severity of the Injuries
The most substantial factor influencing the value of a bicycle accident settlement in Virginia is the severity of the injuries suffered by the victim. In cases where victims have serious injuries, more complex medical care is expected, and it is common for victims to face ongoing medical needs and increasing costs. Some of the most substantial injuries in these cases include:
- Traumatic brain injuries resulting in cognitive function changes
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
- Burns and road rash often occur from being dragged by the vehicle
- Broken and crushed bones
- Soft tissue injuries
- Amputations during the accident or later as a component of treatment
These accident injuries can lead to complicated and long medical stays. Many victims face the ongoing need for support as well. For this reason, it becomes critical for victims to consider their current as well as their ongoing medical needs before filing a claim for compensation. Talk to a Charlottesville personal injury lawyer today.
For a legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer, call (434) 817-3100
The Emotional Trauma Involved
Victims of bicycle accidents often face serious implications for their mental health from the accident. In some situations, this may include limitations on their ability to navigate life because of the trauma. Trauma is nothing to overlook when it comes to such injuries because it can lead to costly complications, including the development of:
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Severe anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
- Limitations on the ability to work or career trajectory
- Relationship difficulties
If a person’s only way of navigating is by bike, and they suffer trauma from the accident, they may become homebound for some time as they work through their treatment. Victims with emotional damage often need mental health support, trauma-informed therapy, and comprehensive support for some time to heal. This can impact the average bicycle accident settlement in Virginia as well.
Length of Time They are Unable to Work
If you are hurt in a bicycle accident and face ongoing injuries and losses that keep you in the hospital or unable to do your job, that can create substantial financial strain. A person who is unable to work may struggle to pay their bills and meet financial responsibilities. Yet, it is through no fault of their own that they cannot go back to work.
For victims of a bicycle accident, documentation of injuries that limit their ability to work is essential. Be sure you follow the recommended treatment plan your doctor provides to you, and do not go back to work before you are given the clear by your doctor to do so. All of the losses you incur could be a component of your claim.
Document all missed hours and salary not paid due to your injuries. If you receive benefits or are unable to contribute to your normal savings and retirement plans because you are out of work, that could be included in your claim. Those who are paid bonuses or miss out on other opportunities, including the ability to be promoted, may also consider including those losses in their claim. Review our FAQs today.
Consider the Importance of Loss of Earning Capacity
There are numerous situations where victims suffer serious injuries that hamper their ability to go back to work or do the same type of job they were doing. Called a diminished earning capacity, this is an important factor to consider when estimating the value of your bicycle accident claim. You may need compensation for that loss, as well as potential job retraining so you can learn to do something new.
Average Bicycle Accident Settlement in Virginia: Catastrophic Injuries in a Bicycle Accident
The average value of a bicycle accident settlement in Virginia is much higher when a victim suffers catastrophic injuries. These injuries occur when the victim is unlikely to fully recover from the accident, often with severe limitations to their mobility and quality of life. Some of the most common catastrophic injuries include:
- Loss of vision or hearing
- Paralysis or implications to mobility due to spinal cord injuries (SCI)
- Disfigurement from burns, scarring, or amputations
- Cognitive function limitations
While these injuries fall into the category of recovery, your attorney will also need to think about the long-term implications of permanent losses. There is an impact on your ability to live your life as you desire, accomplish your goals, maintain relationships, and engage in activities you enjoy. You may need ongoing medical care and 24–hour support in some situations. Your life expectancy may be much lower as well.
Availability of Punitive Damages
Some bicycle accidents may be due to the intentional or specifically reckless behavior of the driver. In situations where you are facing serious injuries and losses because of the egregious actions of the other party, such as drunk driving, you may be able to pursue punitive damages.
Though they are rarely approved, punitive damages are awarded by the court in situations where the victim is suffering profound loss from intentional acts. They are not compensatory damages but rather a form of punishment imposed by the court on the at-fault party to encourage them never to engage in that behavior again.
Suppose the driver was intoxicated, driving aggressively with the intention to harm, or otherwise acted in a comprehensively reckless manner. In that case, Virginia Code section 8.01-44.5 or § 8.01-38.1 allows you to seek additional damages through punitive damages. Keep in mind that your attorney will help you demonstrate the benefits, but it is up to the court to determine if they should be awarded as a form of punishment.
Click to contact personal injury lawyers today
Seeking Legal Guidance Becomes a Critical Part of Your Claim
The average settlement for a bicycle accident injury in Virginia could range into the millions of dollars in situations of serious injury and long-term implications.
When so much is on the line, it becomes critical to hire a trusted and experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Virginia to represent you. Turn to MartinWren, P.C., now to discuss your case in a free consultation.
Call (434) 817-3100 or complete a Case Evaluation form
