Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Charlotte, NC

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Charlotte, North Carolina?

  3-1-1 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Charlotte.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Charlotte, North Carolina?

  You have several options for obtaining a police report related to your case in Charlotte. One option is to visit the CMPD website and follow the instructions to obtain a free incident report. Another option is to visit the Records Division in the lobby of Police Headquarters at 601 E. Trade Street during office hours, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also visit any Division Office of the police department during office hours to request a copy of the incident report.

• Are Charlotte cyclists responsible for traffic collisions?

  Yes. Charlotte cyclists are liable if they have caused the accident. Bicycle riders are subject to the same laws as drivers, but certain laws pertain to biking. Riding a bicycle on a sidewalk is illegal unless marked as a bike path. At intersections, cyclists must follow the same rules as motorists, use hand signals, and wait until it's safe to proceed. It's illegal to ride a bicycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Helmets are not required for adults but are recommended.

• What should you say to an insurance adjuster after a Charlotte bicycle accident?

  Exercise caution while conversing with an insurance adjuster because your words might be utilized to your disadvantage. You can refuse when an adjuster requests permission to record the discussion. Before engaging with an insurance adjuster, it is advisable to seek guidance from a bicycle accident attorney in Charlotte. This way, you can safeguard your interests effectively.

• What is the time limit to file a bicycle accident claim in Charlotte?

  The statute of limitations for bicycle accidents in Charlotte is three years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long to file a claim can make proving negligence more challenging. Thus, you must file a lawsuit right after the accident because many things might go wrong and lead your case to fall apart. When the statute of limitations passes, an insurance company has no reason to offer fair compensation.

• How should one establish negligence in a bicycle accident case in Charlotte?

  In a Charlotte bicycle accident case, an injured rider can prove negligence by showing that the motorist owed the cyclist a duty of care, failed that obligation due to some action or inaction, and caused the rider's injuries. In addition, the wounded rider must include evidence like eyewitness testimony, photos and videos of the scene, police reports, and medical records.

• What are some common causes of bicycle accidents in Charlotte?

  Common causes of bicycle accidents in Charlotte include failing to yield the right of way, running red lights or stop signs, distracted driving, speeding, and drunk driving. Recently, Charlotte has seen a disproportionately high incidence of bicycle-related accidents and fatalities. In 2021, North Carolina experienced a high number of road fatalities, a 5% increase from the previous year.