Best Bicycle Accident Attorneys in Bellevue

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Bellevue, Washington?

  For non-emergency matters, individuals can reach the Bellevue Police Department at this number (425) 577-5656.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Bellevue, Washington?

  To request City of Bellevue public records, including police records, visit the public records center website at https://bellevuewa.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(fssz0fldhe2aikxs1a34u0he))/SupportHome.aspx. You can also request records by mail addressed to the Bellevue Police Department, Public Records Request, P.O. Box 90012, Bellevue, WA 98009.

• Which Bellevue streets and intersections have the highest rate of bicycle accidents?

  Certain streets and intersections in Bellevue pose greater risks to pedestrians and cyclists due to lack of caution from drivers. NE 8th Street is a notorious corridor where many serious and fatal collisions between cars and cyclists have occurred. Other streets in the city that have also been identified as dangerous due to high incidence of serious and fatal accidents include:

  • 118th Ave SE
  • 156th Ave NE
  • 140th Ave NE
  • Lakemont Blvd SE
  • NE 24th St
  • Coal Creek Pkwy SE
  • Northup Way
  • W Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE
  • 116th Ave NE
  • Bel Red Rd

• Should you call the police after getting involved in a bicycle accident in Bellevue?

  Prioritize obtaining emergency medical care and calling the police if you were severely injured in a bicycle accident in Bellevue. Police and paramedics will likely respond and they will care for your injuries, write an accident report, and document the scene. It is a good idea to call the police even in minor collisions where you were thrown off your bike. They may or may not send an officer, but reporting can be helpful if you file a claim in the future.

• How can a lawyer help you with your bicycle accident case in Bellevue?

  Having a qualified lawyer by your side for your Bellevue bicycle accident case can make a significant impact. Some of the services a lawyer can provide include:

  • Assisting with paperwork and claims filing
  • Advising on legal rights after an accident
  • Investigating the cause of the accident
  • Gathering evidence, documentation, and witness statements before they are lost
  • Handling communication with insurance companies or third parties
  • Exploring all possible avenues for reimbursement
  • Evaluating and determining the fair value of the victim's claim
  • Negotiating a favorable settlement on behalf of the victim
  • Preparing a lawsuit if insurance negotiations are unproductive

• What happens if you miss the deadline for filing your bicycle accident claim in Bellevue?

  You have three years to file a lawsuit for compensation following a bicycle accident in Bellevue. Missing this deadline may waive your right to compensation, but there are exceptions. For instance, if you were under 18 when the accident occurred, you would have an extra three years to file a claim after turning 18. Another circumstance where the statute of limitations might be tolled is if you are mentally incapacitated. Additionally, the statute of limitations could be tolled if a defendant dishonestly denies responsibility. The existence of these exceptions must be established in court, thus legal advice is crucial.

• What safety measures can you take to prevent bicycle accidents in Bellevue?

  In Bellevue, bicyclists need to take extra precautions compared to motorists due to road design and the safety differences between cars and bikes. These precautions include sharing the road with other vehicles, signaling turns, and riding in the direction of traffic. Additionally, it is also important to enhance visibility by wearing light-colored clothing, applying reflective tape, and installing lights for night riding. Wearing a helmet while cycling is also essential to protect against severe brain injuries in case of accidents.