Motorists often hit bicyclists and pedestrians because they fail to see them on the side of the road or fail to yield the right of way at crosswalks or intersection crossings. As a result, it's not uncommon for motorists to blame pedestrians or cyclists for accidents that happen along residential streets or at stoplights. At the Law Offices of Richard Gallone, I work with accident investigators in measuring skid marks, interviewing witnesses, and collecting evidence in pedestrian knockdowns and bicycle accidents. In most cases, I can determine if a motorist was speeding, ignored a crosswalk, failed to establish a safe distance between a pedestrian/cyclist and themselves, or ran through an intersection. Using GPS technology and eyewitness testimony, my office can recreate an accident and expose negligent, careless driving that resulted in injuries or fatalities.
If you've been injured while riding or walking along the side of the road, or have lost a family member in a pedestrian knockdown, contact Rhode Island bike accident attorney Richard Gallone today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
I help injured bicyclists and pedestrians recover damages for the following kinds of injuries after being hit by a car, truck, or bus driver:
In order to accurately quantify the cost of my client's injuries, in cases involving permanent injury, I consult with experienced medical economists and life-care planners, taking into account costs associated with hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, medical equipment, in-home care, and lost wages. If a driver's policy limits are not enough to adequately compensate you for your injuries, it may be possible to recover additional compensation under your automobile insurance policy or the driver's homeowner's or umbrella coverage. As your attorney, I can explain the insurance coverage(s) available to you and determine the best way to help you recover the maximum amount of compensation.
Insurers may try to contact you after your accident in order to ask you questions about your injuries and what happened. In many cases, insurers will try to settle a case as soon as possible in order to avoid litigation later. Since the full scope of a head or neck injury may not be known for months, the sooner an insurer can settle a case the less likely it will cost them more money later. Accepting an early settlement offer and signing a release of your claim will legally block you from getting any additional damages at a later date.
Additionally, an insurance agent may ask you if you were wearing reflective clothing, walking on the shoulder or sidewalk, if you looked before entering an intersection, and other similar kinds of questions. Here, the purpose is to get you to say anything that can be used later to claim you were partially at fault, thereby reducing the amount the insurer would have to pay.
I understand how insurers think and the tactics they use to reduce the amount they have to pay in claims. I can help protect your interests and rights — contact Rhode Island bike accident attorney Richard Gallone today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.