On October 17, 2015, at 1:50 p.m., our client was riding his Cannondale 800 bicycle southbound on Union City Boulevard at its intersection with Alvarado Boulevard in Union City, California. While adhering to traffic laws, he was struck by a negligent driver, resulting in serious injuries, lost wages, and substantial medical expenses.
Details of the Bike Accident
This was a vehicle versus bicycle collision caused by the driver’s negligent actions in a 2003 Toyota Highlander. The accident occurred under clear road conditions. The impact resulted in severe back pain and dental injuries to our client. He was transported via Paramedics Plus ambulance to Eden Medical Center/Sutter Health in San Leandro, California, for immediate treatment.
Case Facts and Legal Advocacy
Following the accident, our client required ongoing medical treatment, including dental surgery. Allstate Insurance, the at-fault driver’s insurer, initially contested liability and delayed payment. Facing mounting medical bills and lost income, our client sought legal representation from GJEL Accident Attorneys.
He sought answers to critical questions:
- Who would be responsible for his medical bills?
- How would he manage the financial burden and potential lost income?
- What if he faced permanent, life-altering injuries?
GJEL attorneys promptly evaluated the case and met with the client at his home in Newark, California. They then commenced a thorough investigation, including obtaining the police report from the Union City Police Department, which confirmed the other driver’s liability.
Successful Settlement and Resolution
Initially, Allstate Insurance disputed the case’s value. GJEL Accident Attorneys continued to gather evidence and document the client’s medical treatment. This persistent effort led Allstate to reconsider its position, resulting in a $100,000 settlement without the need for litigation. Attorney Jim Larsen successfully navigated the case, securing a favorable outcome for our client within nine months.
Key Case Details:
Injuries: Broken jaw/teeth, surgery with plates and screws, jaw wired shut, need for dental implants.
Insurance Company: Allstate
Police Report: Union City Police Department
Vehicle: 2003 Toyota Highlander
Accident Location: Union City Blvd. at Alvarado Blvd., Union City, CA
Medical Facilities: Paramedics Plus, Eden Hospital, Sutter East Bay Medical Foundation, Rodney Chew, DDS, Stephen WAT, MD
This case underscores the vulnerability of cyclists on the road and the importance of holding negligent drivers accountable. Despite clear evidence of liability, Allstate Insurance initially disputed the value of our client’s injuries.
GJEL Accident Attorneys’ thorough investigation and persistent advocacy ensured that our client received fair compensation for his severe dental injuries and lost income. This outcome highlights the necessity of seeking experienced legal representation when facing the aftermath of a bicycle accident, especially when insurance companies attempt to minimize their liability.
Navigating the complexities of insurance claims and medical bills can be overwhelming, particularly when recovering from significant injuries.
GJEL Accident Attorneys understands the challenges bicycle accident victims face and is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation. We prioritize our clients’ well-being and work tirelessly to secure the compensation they deserve, allowing them to focus on recovery and rebuilding their lives.
Don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance if you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident. Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Our dedicated team will thoroughly evaluate your situation, answer your questions, and fight for your rights. Let us help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you need to move forward. Call us at +1 415-986-4777 or visit our Fremont office for free legal consultation.
Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.