Allyson Kitchel, founder of Kitchel Law, PLLC, brings a unique and personal perspective to every bicycle accident case. As a cyclist herself, Allyson knows the dangers that riders face on the road. She’s been in your shoes—her husband was struck by a car while cycling, and the driver responded with anger rather than concern. Allyson understands how deeply these incidents can disrupt your life, from dealing with injuries to managing everyday responsibilities.
At Kitchel Law, we recognize how overwhelming the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be. As your dedicated bicycle accident lawyer in Alexandria, VA, our mission is to support you through this challenging period. Handling injuries, negotiating with insurance companies, and dealing with the stress of a crash can be incredibly draining. That’s why having a skilled Alexandria bicycle accident attorney by your side is so important—to help you navigate these difficulties, safeguard your rights, and pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Allyson’s dual experience as both a cyclist and an attorney gives her a deep understanding of what you’re going through. She has walked this path with her own family, so she truly empathizes with your situation. At Kitchel Law, we believe these incidents are not mere “accidents”—they are crashes that occur due to negligence, and we are committed to holding those at fault accountable.
We’re here to guide you through the legal process, managing the complexities so you can focus on getting better. With Allyson’s experience in dealing with insurance companies, she knows the strategies they use and how to advocate for the compensation you deserve. Let us handle the legal aspects while you concentrate on your recovery. We’re with you every step of the way.
Let us handle the legal aspects while you concentrate on your recovery. We’re with you every step of the way.
How a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Alexandria, VA Can Help You
Recovering from a bicycle accident can be tough, especially when you’re dealing with injuries. As your bicycle accident lawyer in Alexandria, Kitchel Law is here to ease the burden by handling the legal side of things, so you can focus on healing. Here’s how we can assist you:
Comprehensive Accident Investigation
A solid case starts with a thorough investigation. Our Alexandria bicycle accident attorneys are committed to gathering all the necessary evidence, such as police notes, including body-worn video footage. We carefully analyze every detail to determine who’s responsible and build the strongest case possible on your behalf.
Expert Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible, making it hard to get the compensation you deserve. Our experienced bicycle accident attorneys in Alexandria handle all negotiations with insurance companies. We work tirelessly to ensure you receive a fair settlement that covers your medical bills, lost wages, and other related costs.
Guiding You Through the Legal Process
The legal process can be confusing, especially when you’re focused on recovery. As your Alexandria bicycle accident lawyer, we guide you through each step, making sure you understand what’s happening and keeping you informed. Our goal is to help you make the best decisions for your case, so you feel confident and supported throughout the process.
Representation in Court
At Kitchel Law, our attorneys are well-versed in representing bicycle accident cases in Alexandria. Allyson Kitchel has a strong track record of successfully advocating for clients in court, ensuring that they receive the best possible outcome. Whether your case is settled or goes to trial, we are committed to fighting for your rights.
By taking care of these important tasks, our bicycle accident attorneys aim to make the legal process as easy and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on what’s most important—your recovery.
Why Choose Kitchel Law for Your Bicycle Accident Case in Alexandria, VA?
In-Depth Knowledge of Virginia Bicycle Laws
At Kitchel Law, we understand the unique challenges cyclists face on the road. Our attorneys have a deep knowledge of Virginia’s bicycle laws, which means your case will be handled by professionals who know how to navigate the legal complexities involved in bicycle accidents. Allyson Kitchel’s personal experience as a cyclist, along with her professional expertise, gives us a unique insight into the legal and practical issues you may be facing. We’re here to protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Personalized and Compassionate Care
Client care is at the heart of everything we do at Kitchel Law. We know that every bicycle accident case is different, and we take the time to listen to your concerns and understand your specific situation. Our approach is always client-focused—we tailor our legal strategy to meet your needs and work closely with you throughout the entire process. We are committed to being your advocate every step of the way, ensuring that you feel supported and informed.
Proven Success in Alexandria
Kitchel Law has a strong track record of helping injured cyclists in Alexandria achieve successful outcomes. We’ve secured favorable settlements and verdicts in cases similar to yours, demonstrating our ability to effectively advocate for our clients. Whether through negotiation or trial, we’re dedicated to getting the best possible results for you. Our experience and commitment make Kitchel Law the right choice for your bicycle accident case in Alexandria.
How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Claim?
If you’ve been in a bicycle accident in Virginia, it’s important to know that there’s a time limit for filing a claim, called the statute of limitations. In Virginia, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim (Virginia Code § 8.01-243). This might seem like a long time, but the sooner you start the process, the better.
Filing your claim within this time frame is crucial. If you miss the deadline, you could lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident. That’s why it’s important to act quickly and consult with a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
As your bicycle accident lawyer in Alexandria, we’ll make sure all the necessary paperwork is filed on time and that your case is handled efficiently. We understand that dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, so we’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process. Our goal is to protect your rights and help you get the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?
In Virginia, the contributory negligence rule means that if you’re even 1% at fault for a bicycle accident, you may not be able to recover any damages (Virginia Code § 8.01-34). This strict rule can be challenging, especially when you’re facing medical bills and other costs.
However, having a skilled bicycle accident lawyer in Alexandria can make a big difference. We can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work to minimize or eliminate any fault assigned to you. Even if contributory negligence applies, we’ll explore every possible option to help you seek compensation. At Kitchel Law, we’re here to protect your rights and guide you through your legal options.
How Can I Prove the Driver Was at Fault?
Proving the driver was at fault in a bicycle accident is crucial for your case. Here’s how we can help:
Gathering Evidence
We’ll collect important evidence, including:
-
Accident Reports: These provide detailed accounts of the accident and any citations issued.
-
Police Notes & Body Worn Video Footage: If available, police notes and body camera footage can offer valuable insights into the immediate aftermath of the accident, showing the conditions and behavior of those involved.
-
Traffic Camera Footage: If available, footage from traffic or nearby surveillance cameras can clearly show how the accident happened.
Analyzing Traffic Laws
We’ll review Virginia traffic laws (Virginia Code Title 46.2) to see if the driver violated any rules, such as failing to yield or speeding, which can establish fault.
Demonstrating Negligence
Negligence occurs when the driver fails to act with reasonable care, like texting while driving or ignoring traffic signals. We’ll work to prove that this negligence directly caused the accident and your injuries.
At Kitchel Law, we’ll use all the resources available to build a strong case, showing that the driver’s actions led to your injuries, so you can seek the compensation you deserve.
What Should I Do If the Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If the driver who hit you doesn’t have insurance, you still have options for compensation. Here’s how we can help as your bicycle accident attorney in Alexandria:
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Your own car insurance may include Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This can help cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses when the at-fault driver has no insurance (Virginia Code § 38.2-2206). We’ll review your policy and assist with filing a UM claim.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If the driver has some insurance but not enough to cover your damages, Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage might apply. We’ll check if you have UIM coverage and help you claim it if needed.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or MedPay
Some policies include Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage, which can help pay for medical expenses regardless of fault. We’ll help you access these benefits if they’re available.
Other Legal Options
If insurance isn’t enough, we may consider a personal lawsuit against the at-fault driver to seek compensation from their assets.
Can I Still Get Compensation If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
Not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident does not automatically disqualify you from receiving compensation, though it may affect your claim. Our bicycle accident lawyers in Alexandria will assess your case, considering all factors, and work to secure the best possible outcome for you.
How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Bicycle Accident Case?
The time it takes to resolve a bicycle accident case varies depending on its complexity and whether it goes to court. Here’s what you can expect:
Initial Investigation and Claim Filing
We start by gathering evidence like police reports and medical records, which can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the case's details.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Once we have the necessary evidence, we negotiate with the insurance company. If they offer a fair settlement quickly, the case could be resolved within a few months. However, negotiations may take longer if the insurer disputes the claim or offers less than you deserve (Virginia Code § 38.2-209).
Going to Court
If a fair settlement isn’t reached, we may need to file a lawsuit, which can extend the process by a year or more. The court process involves discovery, depositions, and potentially a trial, all of which add time (Virginia Code Title 8.01).
Case Complexity
More complex cases, such as those involving serious injuries or multiple parties, generally take longer to resolve. If expert witnesses are needed, their involvement can also extend the timeline.
Settlement vs. Trial
Most cases are settled out of court, which is quicker. However, if a trial is necessary to secure fair compensation, it can add significant time.
At Kitchel Law, we aim to resolve your case efficiently while ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve. We’ll keep you informed throughout the process and work diligently to bring your case to a successful conclusion.
Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Alexandria, VA Today
Hiring a local, experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Alexandria, VA, is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring the best possible outcome for your case. Virginia’s strict laws and the complexities of the Alexandria court system require a lawyer who understands the specific challenges cyclists face. Having someone who knows how to navigate these challenges can make a significant difference in your case.
An experienced bicycle accident lawyer is familiar with the intricacies of contributory negligence rules, understands the importance of meeting critical deadlines, and knows how to effectively present your case in court. This expertise is essential in maximizing your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Remember, the statute of limitations means you have limited time to file a claim, and early investigation is key to gathering the evidence needed for your case.
Schedule Your Free Consultation with an Experienced Alexandria Bicycle Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, having an experienced advocate like Allyson Kitchel by your side can make all the difference. With nearly two decades of personal injury experience and a unique background in defending insurance companies, Allyson is well-equipped to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.
Allyson has secured significant settlements and verdicts for her clients, including a $13.5 million verdict and multiple high-value settlements. Recognized as a “Superlawyer” and AV PREEMINENT by her peers, she is committed to making sure your benefits work for you, not the insurance companies.
Don’t delay. Call us today at 202-949-7109, email [email protected], or fill out our online form to schedule a FREE CONSULTATION.
Let Kitchel Law’s expertise be your trusted partner as you recover and move forward.