Damages You Can Recover in a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit

Many bicycle accident victims don't realize the full extent of compensation they're entitled to. Understanding your damages helps ensure you don't settle for less than you deserve.

Economic Damages (Special Damages)

These have specific dollar values:

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Medical Expenses

• Emergency room visits

• Hospital stays

• Surgery and procedures

• Physical therapy

• Medication

• Medical equipment

• Future medical care

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Lost Wages

• Past lost income

• Future lost earning capacity

• Lost benefits and bonuses

• Self-employment income

• Career advancement losses

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Property Damage

• Bicycle repair or replacement

• Helmet, clothing, accessories

• Electronics (phone, computer)

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Other Expenses

• Transportation to medical appointments

• Home modifications (if disabled)

• In-home care assistance

Non-Economic Damages (General Damages)

These don't have fixed dollar values:

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Pain and Suffering Physical pain endured and expected in the future.

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Mental Anguish Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, PTSD.

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Loss of Enjoyment of Life Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed—including cycling.

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Loss of Consortium Impact on relationship with spouse.

#

Disfigurement Permanent scarring or physical changes.

Punitive Damages

Available in some cases involving:

• Drunk driving

• Extreme recklessness

• Intentional misconduct

Purpose: Punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.

How Damages Are Calculated

- Medical bills: Actual amounts or reasonable value

• Lost wages: Tax returns, pay stubs, employer letters

• Pain and suffering: Multiplier of medical bills (2-5x) or per diem method

• Future damages: Expert testimony required