Understanding Bicycle Accident Settlements

Understanding how settlements work helps you set realistic expectations and maximize your recovery.

Settlement Ranges

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Minor Injuries ($10,000 - $50,000)

• Cuts, bruises, minor fractures

• Short recovery time

• No permanent effects

#

Moderate Injuries ($50,000 - $200,000)

• Broken bones requiring surgery

• Longer recovery

• Some lasting effects

#

Serious Injuries ($200,000 - $500,000)

• Multiple fractures, TBI

• Significant surgery

• Long-term impacts

#

Catastrophic Injuries ($500,000 - $5,000,000+)

• Spinal cord damage

• Severe TBI

• Permanent disability

#

Wrongful Death ($500,000 - $10,000,000+)

• Depends on age, earnings, dependents

Factors Affecting Value

#

Liability Clarity Clear fault = higher settlement. Disputed = lower.

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Injury Severity More severe = higher compensation.

#

Medical Documentation Well-documented treatment supports your claim.

#

Insurance Limits Can't get more than available coverage.

#

Your Credibility Juries and adjusters assess believability.

#

Jurisdiction Some areas have higher verdict averages.

#

Attorney Quality Experienced attorneys achieve better results.

The Settlement Process

1. Complete medical treatment 2. Gather all documentation 3. Calculate full damages 4. Send demand to insurance 5. Negotiate 6. Accept settlement or file lawsuit

When to Settle vs. Litigate

Settlement offers certainty and speed. Litigation offers potentially higher recovery but takes longer and has risks.