Albuquerque Bicycle Accident Attorney
Experienced Representation for Injured Bicyclists in Bernalillo County
While Albuquerque offers scenic views and activities for bicyclists, accidents are inevitable. If you were harmed by someone else's negligence while bicycling, seeking experienced representation is a must to pursue justice and compensation for your injuries.
At Law Office of Nathan Cobb, our bicycle accident attorney in Albuquerque has over 15 years of experience representing the wrongfully injured. With a proven track record of results and over $10 million recovered for our clients throughout Bernalillo County, we take pride in delivering compassionate counsel when you need it most.
Our firm can help you get back on your feet after a serious injury by fighting tirelessly to hold liable parties accountable, freeing you to focus on healing. Attorney Nathan Cobb has extensive litigation experience to safeguard your rights in and out of the courtroom, giving you peace of mind that your health and financial security are prioritized.
Injured in a bicycle accident in Albuquerque? Our attorney can fight tirelessly for the compensation you deserve. Call (505) 572-1160 to schedule a free consultation.
Understanding Bicycle Accident Claims in Albuquerque
In Albuquerque, navigating the aftermath of a bicycle accident involves understanding specific local traffic laws and statutes. Cyclists are required to follow the same rules of the road as motor vehicles, but accidents can occur due to negligence from drivers who may overlook or disrespect cyclists' rights. In New Mexico, determining liability often involves a comparison of negligence, which can impact the compensation a victim may receive.
Engaging a seasoned attorney like those at Law Office of Nathan Cobb can assist you in interpreting these laws and effectively applying them to your case. Our team's familiarity with local court procedures ensures that your case is handled efficiently and that your interests are robustly represented in court. Our comprehensive approach not only considers legal factors but also seeks to alleviate the emotional and financial burdens on our clients.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can lead to a wide range of serious injuries for victims, including:
- Brain injuries: Head and brain injuries are common in bicycle accidents due to the lack of protection between the rider and the road, potentially leading to lifelong disabilities.
- Spinal cord injuries: SCIs are common in high-impact collisions. These injuries can result in permanent functional and cognitive impairments, including partial or total paralysis.
- Amputation: Bicycle accidents can lead to amputation when a biker’s arms or legs get caught or entangled under heavy equipment or debris during a crash.
- Broken bones: Bicyclists can suffer broken bones and fractures when they are ejected from their bikes or collide with nearby vehicles, buildings, or structures.
- Road rash: Riders can suffer severe burn injuries and road rash when their skin makes contact with the pavement during a bicycle accident.
The recovery process can be daunting and costly, requiring comprehensive medical care, rehabilitation, and the potential need for long-term adjustments to day-to-day life. At Law Office of Nathan Cobb, we understand the full spectrum of challenges our clients face and strive to provide holistic support alongside our legal services.
Legal Process for Bicycle Accidents in Albuquerque
After a bicycle accident in Albuquerque, the legal process can be complex. It typically begins with filing a claim with the at-fault party's insurance company. However, insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts or assign greater fault to the cyclist, complicating negotiations. Understanding the contributory negligence laws in New Mexico, which can reduce compensation if the cyclist is found partially at fault, is crucial.
Our firm is adept at navigating these challenges. We prepare each case meticulously, gathering evidence, consulting with experts, and crafting a compelling argument that highlights the full impact of the accident on your life. Our goal is to secure a settlement that fully addresses your needs, but if necessary, we are prepared to advocate for you in court. With Law Office of Nathan Cobb, you have a dedicated ally committed to fighting for your rights every step of the way.
When the Stakes Are High,
Trust Our Proven Record of Success
-
Award-Winning RepresentationRecognized on the prestigious New Mexico Rising Stars list by Super Lawyers magazine every year since 2017.
-
Over 15 Years of ExperienceOur commitment to achieving the best results has shaped a strong track record of successful outcomes, even in the most challenging situations.
-
Client-Centered Legal SupportWe're focused on your recovery—financially and personally—so you can move forward with your life.
-
Free Case Consultation – No RiskTaking the first step toward resolution costs you nothing. We offer a free consultation to assess your legal options.
Turn to an Experienced Trial Lawyer with Proven Results
Why choose Law Office of Nathan Cobb to protect your rights after a wrongful injury? Here are some reasons why our clients trust us to pursue justice:
- Over a decade of experience: Our seasoned attorney has represented fellow New Mexicans since 2008, so you can rest assured that your case is in trusted hands.
- Compassionate representation: We take pride in providing effective and compassionate representation in life’s most challenging seasons, empowering our clients to take back their lives after serious injuries.
- Trial preparation: Our litigator prepares every case for trial to show evasive insurers we mean business and prevent you from settling for less than you deserve. We can negotiate effectively on your behalf to recover fair compensation.
- Proven results: With millions of dollars recovered for our clients, our firm has a winning track record of results in personal injury cases.
Choosing the right legal representation is crucial in ensuring that your rights are fully protected and that you receive the maximum possible compensation for your injuries. Our attorney is not only committed to each case but also brings a thorough understanding of local laws and courtroom procedures specific to Albuquerque, enhancing our strategic approach to every legal challenge. We pride ourselves on transparent communication and ensure our clients are informed every step of the way.
If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Albuquerque, our firm can help you pursue a fair settlement. Contact us online to discuss your case. Pay nothing until we win.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Who Is Liable for a Bicycle Accident in New Mexico?
Determining liability is one of the most complex parts of any personal injury lawsuit, especially if liability is shared among multiple parties. Common liable parties in a bicycle accident claim may include negligent drivers, delivery or rideshare employees, manufacturing companies, and local government entities.
Consulting a qualified bicycle accident lawyer is key to supporting your claim with sufficient evidence and proving negligence in your case. Your attorney can help you establish the necessary elements to prove liability, including:
- Duty of care: First, you must prove that the negligent party owed you a duty of care, such as checking for oncoming bicyclists in designated bike lanes and obeying traffic laws.
- Breach of duty: Next, you must show that the at-fault party violated their duty by acting negligently, such as failing to yield or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Causation: Then, you must demonstrate that the defendant’s negligence directly contributed to the accident and your resulting injuries.
- Damages: Finally, you must prove that you suffered compensatory harm (“damages”) as a result of the accident.
-
What Are Recoverable Damages in a Bicycle Accident Claim
Depending on the specifics of the case, various damages may be recoverable in a bicycle accident lawsuit. Common types of damages include economic damages for direct losses, such as medical expenses, treatment costs, lost wages, lost earning capacity, and property damage, and non-economic damages for indirect losses, such as pain and suffering, loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, and scarring and disfigurement.
In rare cases involving extreme negligence, the court may also award punitive damages. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, which compensate the victim directly, punitive damages are awarded solely to punish the defendant and deter recurring behavior. Our bicycle accident attorney can evaluate your claim with a practiced legal eye to calculate all available damages and advocate for a fair settlement.
-
How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Claim in Albuquerque?If you were wrongfully injured in a bicycle accident, taking swift legal action is essential to recover compensation for your injuries. In New Mexico, the statute of limitations for bicycle accident claims is typically three years from the date of the accident. Failure to file your claim within this deadline can result in the loss of eligibility for damages, making it crucial to secure legal representation as soon as possible. When you call Law Office of Nathan Cobb, our award-winning attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the claims process while you focus on your health.
-
I Was Hit on My Bicycle at the Intersection of Eubank Blvd & Montgomery Blvd. What Should I Do?If you were injured on your bicycle at the intersection of Eubank Blvd and Montgomery Blvd, seeking immediate medical attention and legal representation is crucial to pursuing justice. A skilled bicycle accident attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence to support your claim, and represent your best interests in litigation if necessary to achieve a favorable outcome in your case.
-
Can I Still Seek Damages in a Bicycle Accident Claim if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet in Albuquerque?
Yes, you can still seek compensation in a bicycle accident claim even if you weren’t wearing a helmet. New Mexico follows the pure comparative negligence rule, which allows victims to recover damages even if they were partially at fault for the accident. However, not wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the total compensation available to you. Partnering with an experienced advocate is critical to protecting your rights and preventing other involved parties from exaggerating your fault in the accident.
Under the pure comparative negligence rule, the court will determine the fault of each liable party and reduce damages accordingly. For example, if you are 20% at fault for a bicycle accident lawsuit totaling $75,000 in damages, you may only be eligible to recover $60,000 (20% less than the original amount). If you were hit without a helmet in a bicycle accident, our firm can help you mitigate potential impacts on your case while working diligently to recover maximum compensation.
-
What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident in Albuquerque?
After ensuring your immediate safety, the most critical step is to contact emergency services to report the accident and receive medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, documentation of your medical condition is vital. Gather as much evidence as possible from the scene, including photos of injuries, damages, and relevant road conditions. If there are witnesses, collect their contact details for future testimony.
It's important to avoid discussions about fault with the other party. Instead, focus on securing your documentation and reporting the incident accurately to the authorities. After addressing these immediate concerns, reach out to a qualified attorney who specializes in bicycle accidents, such as those at Law Office of Nathan Cobb, to explore your legal options.
-
How Does New Mexico’s Comparative Negligence Law Affect My Bicycle Accident Claim?
New Mexico follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which can impact the compensation you might receive in a bicycle accident claim. Under this legal framework, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. For example, if you are found 20% responsible, your compensation will be adjusted accordingly.
Working with adept legal professionals who understand Albuquerque's roads and local traffic laws, like those at Law Office of Nathan Cobb, can help mitigate factors that could negatively affect your claim. We conduct thorough investigations to present a strong case, ensuring that your rights are clearly advocated for amidst complex legal evaluations.
-
Can I Claim Compensation for Non-Physical Damages After a Bicycle Accident?
Yes, it is possible to claim compensation for non-physical damages following a bicycle accident. These can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Such damages can greatly affect your quality of life and should be accurately quantified within your claim.
Our legal team at Law Office of Nathan Cobb is equipped to address these aspects of your case, employing methods to evaluate non-economic impacts effectively. We understand the broad spectrum of effects an accident can have on your life and work diligently to ensure that all aspects are thoroughly addressed in your pursuit of justice and recompense.
What Are Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Bicycle accidents can occur due to a variety of reasons. Some common causes include:
- Drunk driving
- Fatigued driving
- Reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Poor road conditions, such as inadequate signage or potholes
- Traffic violations, such as illegal turns, speeding, or failure to yield
Our legal team at Law Office of Nathan Cobb advocates for road safety improvements and collaborates with local agencies to push for safer cycling environments in Albuquerque. By raising awareness and advocating for change, we aim to reduce the number of accidents and protect our community's cycling enthusiasts.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in Albuquerque
If you are involved in a bicycle accident in Albuquerque, it is important to take immediate and appropriate actions to protect your rights and health. Here’s what you should consider:
- Seek medical attention: Prioritize your health by seeking medical evaluation, even if injuries seem minor. This also creates important medical records.
- Collect evidence: If you can, document the scene by taking photographs and gathering witness contact info. This can be critical for building your case.
At Law Office of Nathan Cobb, we recommend consulting with our legal team as soon as possible. Early legal advice can help you avoid common pitfalls and better understand your rights and options in the aftermath of an accident. We are here to guide you through the legal process, providing comprehensive support from the initial claim to final resolution.
-
What Should You Do After a Bus or Train Accident on Albuquerque’s Public Transportation?
-
How to Prove Negligence in a Parking Lot Pedestrian Accident This Spring
-
Adapting to Life After a Spinal Cord Injury: Next Steps for Victims and Families
