Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Personal Injury Claims
Hit-and-run crashes are, unfortunately, common. If the driver can’t be located, your own uninsured motorist coverage may apply. Our bicycle accident attorneys will investigate every available avenue for compensation.
Some cases settle in a few months; others may take over a year, depending on the severity of injuries, clarity of fault, and insurance negotiations. We’ll keep you updated every step of the way.
Health insurance may help, but if another party was at fault, their insurer should ultimately pay. If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your auto policy, it may also apply, even though you were on a bike.
Yes, if the city or a public agency failed to maintain safe conditions or design infrastructure negligently. These claims may be subject to shorter deadlines, so it’s critical to act quickly.
You may still be eligible for compensation. While helmet use can affect liability arguments, California law does not bar recovery simply because a cyclist wasn’t wearing a helmet. You can count on our Bay Area bicycle accident attorneys to fight back against insurance companies that try to blame the victim.
Nothing upfront. At Danko Meredith, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case. We cover all legal costs so you can focus on recovery.
The timeline depends on the details of the case, the severity of your injuries, and whether a fair settlement can be reached without litigation.
Straightforward cases with clear liability and moderate injuries may resolve within a few months. However, serious injury claims, wrongful death cases, or those involving corporate defendants can take a significant amount of time, especially if they go to trial. Throughout the process, we keep you informed, prepared, and in control of your case. At Danko Meredith, our priority is not just a fast resolution, but a just one.
Yes. Rideshare and autonomous vehicle companies have a duty to ensure their drivers and technologies operate safely. If you were hit by an Uber, Lyft, or Waymo vehicle, or injured while riding in one, you may have a viable claim.
These cases can be more challenging because they often involve corporate insurance policies, overlapping coverage periods, and questions of whether a driver was actively “on the clock.” Our team of car accident attorneys has experience holding large companies and insurers accountable and can handle these unique legal challenges.
Not necessarily. In fact, the majority of personal injury cases resolve through negotiated settlements without ever going to trial. However, at Danko Meredith, we prepare every case from day one as though it will go to court.
This comprehensive approach sends a clear message to the insurance company and defense counsel: we are ready, willing, and able to take your case before a jury if necessary. That level of preparation often leads to stronger settlement offers and gives you the leverage you need to demand full compensation.
Yes. We work with providers who treat patients on a lien basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront. Your bills are paid from your settlement or verdict.
Even if the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options. Your own auto insurance policy, employer policies, or third-party liability coverage can apply. At Danko Meredith, we’ll explore every available source of recovery.
Yes. Some injuries, like soft tissue damage, internal bleeding, or concussions, may not become apparent until days or even weeks later. California law allows time for delayed discovery in some instances. A medical evaluation and legal review can help determine your rights.
