Was super helpful! Gave me a quick free consultation regarding a bike collision. Friendly and informative.
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Christopher Harrod
Willing to help, prompt responses, not after money, they legitimately want to help you whether their services are required or not.
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Kneif Lohse
Kyle and the team and BABL were awesome. I was hesitant about hiring a lawyer after the accident just because I didn't have any experience and didn't know what I was getting into, but I could not be happier w/ my decision to work with them. Kyle was very consultative and easy to talk to, and advised me all the way thru the process (even before I decided to hire him). The accident and subsequent surgery were hard enough to deal with, and having them worry about the insurance and paperwork took a lot of the burden off of my recovery. Hopefully it never happens again, but I would hire these guys again in a heartbeat. Thanks guys!
I contacted Bat Area Bicycle Law through it's website for free consultation regarding my Bike accident. I as a Bicyclist got injured in a car accident. I was looking for some advise. Michael and his team are very helpful and responsive. I got the response regarding all my queries. I really want to appreciate them for all the help they offered to me and even offering me for future.
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Scott Conrad
Kyle Smith returned my call and gave me good advice on what to do after a car sideswiped me while I was riding my bike. I would highly recommend contacting if you need assistance.
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Madison Sites
Clear communication throughout the process. I felt like I had a true advocate on my side which made an otherwise unpleasant experience much more manageable.
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Durand Vadnais
Great, smart team of folks here. I called them after getting hit from behind on my bicycle by a van while in an extra wide, fully painted bike lane (and after 3-4 months of healing). They have been invaluable in dealing with the craziness that is the driver's insurance company.
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Kelsey Zorn
Kind, reasonable, approachable lawyers who helped me through an overwhelming experience after being hit by a car on my bike.
Review Left On 03/02/2020
MIchael Wilmar
Although the injuries from my accident turned out to be less than I initially feared, the attorneys at Bay Area Bicycle law gave it both prompt and sustained attention. As a lawyer myself, I appreciated both their courtesy and competence. I would engage them again and would recommend them to anyone with a personal injury claim of any kind, but particularly one involving a bicycle.
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Keenan Hilton
Michael was very helpful in the aftermath of a traffic incident. Bay Area Bicycle Law offers free consultation to discuss accidents--a great service. I was fortunate and ultimately did not end up in the courtroom. I did, however, greatly appreciate the counsel after a jarring incident. And again, I did not have to pay anything. Thanks Bay Area Bicycle Law!
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Mike Ma
Michelle Weiss provided a lengthy free consultation on the steps to take after a collision incident. During the phone call, she thoroughly informed me of the next steps with the insurance adjusters without self-promoting sales pitch. Very helpful and precise with her recommendations.
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Darren Davis
Rockstars of the legal world for the cycling community...responsive, nice and a solid phone number to keep in your back pocket - "just in case"
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Mark Saad
They were able to guide me throughout the process after an accident when I was clueless about what to do. They're very helpful, patient and courteous.
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Jessica Sheets
Initially I was hesitant to reach out as I was nervous that I was going to be roped into a fee or put in an uncomfortable situation. This couldn't be further from the case - Kyle was swift to reply and made my recent bike accident aftermath way less stressful. Thanks again!
Review Left On 03/02/2020
Aj Noriega
So thankful that Bay Area Bicycle Law was there when I needed them! I was referred, and immediately my case with BABL started. Since I was hit, cycling hasn't been the same for me, but each day I'm more motivated than the last. I highly doubt I would have gotten back on the bike if I didn't have them to turn to. The team at BABL is so respectful, professional, and really know how to take care of their clients. Additionally, I want to thank you all for showing me you care, motivating me to keep going when the depression hit, and helping me settle this case after what seemed like forever. My world got flipped upside down. Man, it's unbelievable sometimes. I never thought that one day can change my whole life. Forever grateful for BABL! One love, AJ
Review Left On 02/29/2020
Michael Kim
I was hit by a car while riding my bicycle and sustained injuries. I was dreading the thought of dealing with the other party's insurance company while recovering so I looked into possibly getting legal representation. My wife actually found BABL and told me of their free phone consultation. Best decision I made during this ordeal. I spoke with Kyle Smith and not only was he extremely professional, detailing all my options, rights, and how to proceed going forward, he was very easy to talk to and truly cared about my well being. He evaluated the details of my incident and determined that it might be more beneficial to handle this case on my own instead of hiring them. You would think that would be the end of it but during the process of handling the claim myself, Kyle generously offered his advice and gave me the confidence to handle each situation thrown at me from the claims adjuster. The Bay Area is lucky to have bicycle representation from Mr. Smith and Bay Area Bicycle Law firm during these unfortunate events. I highly recommend them!
Review Left On 02/17/2020
John DeFranco
I was recently involved in an accident while riding my e-bike. Bay Area Bicycle Law was extremely helpful.
Review Left On 01/02/2020
Sandra Caballero
Kyle was absolutely incredible. I called the Bay Area Bicycle Lawyer after I got hit by a car and had absolutely no idea about how to get compensated. He called me back and gave me a super clear action plan on what to do. He calmed down so many of my worries and and have me practical next steps. I cant thank him enough for his help!
Review Left On 12/02/2019
JD Westenburg
I was struck by a car on the Berkeley streets and woke up to ambulance sirens, ER head scans, and staples in my skull ... I had insurance through my work but not a clue on how to proceed with the (what would be nearly $30k in) medical bills that would be coming my way.
I called Bay Area Bicycle Law and Michelle was assigned to my case. I had wanted to reach out to the police, the driver, my insurance, etc ... but as insincere as it might sound, call these folks first. Really. Regardless of fault, helmets, street conditions - they know how to navigate the logistical aftermath of a bicycle crash - and THAT is what you need help with.
I could not have asked for a better person than Michelle to be my advocate. After my case had been basically settled, Michelle negotiated additional recovery money even though none of it would benefit the law firm. These folks work for you.
I hope you never need to call them ... but sh!t happens - and call these good people if it does.
Review Left On 10/02/2019
Kiana Hosseini
Truly glad I contacted BABL after my bike accident (car turned into bike lane in front of me). James helped me with the case until we reached a *very* good settlement with the insurance company. While dealing with an insurance company could be a long and complicated process, James made it really smooth and easy for me and took care of everything. I followed his advice at every step and am super happy with the result! Could not ask for a better lawyer!
Review Left On 09/02/2019
Cristian Garcia
I was hit by a car while cycling home after a 40 mile ride. The driver did not report the incident to his insurance. I had to report it. I've been dealing with one of Farmers agents who never calls me back on the days HE says he's going to. Complete lack of professionalism on Farmers part. I had to call in again almost a month after the incident to speak to someone. One of his colleagues reads the first adjusters notes and informed that it seems he's considering both parties at fault. I suffer from anxiety, and since the accident I have issues even crossing the street now.
I felt helpless and decided to reach out to Bay Area Bicycle Law. James G Cheney followed up with me the next business day. He was very kind and explained to me my options and to his great patience because I do not in anyway have any clues to how these things worked. He informed me of my rights and what steps to follow. He even suggested I try this on my own since I may not need legal representation so I wouldn't have to pay for his services. He stated that they're here for the cycling community and to make sure we're safe and know our rights. Had he said that to me in the beginning of our conversation and later quote me his rates, I would have thought "figures, typical attorney" but the fact that he suggested I try on my own first to save money; I was blown away.
I feel more confident and less at the mercy of Farmers. Thanks James! If I need help I know who I'm going to!!!
Review Left On 09/02/2019
Martin Szwarc
After getting doored and being incorrectly informed by the police officer to contact my insurance company to handle it, I made the right call to reach out to Bay Area Bicycle Law. Kyle was able to clearly explain my options for correctly dealing with the situation. The level of knowledge and professionalism along with truly understanding what it's like to be a cyclist on the streets of Bay Area was very assuring. I'm beyond satisfied with the service he provided to me and if I had 2 pieces of advice to anyone being unfortunate to be in this situation is: 1) Get a police report 2) Call Bay Area Bicycle Law
Hoping to not ever be a repeat customer, but if need be, I'd do so without hesitation!
Review Left On 08/02/2019
Tim Victor
I was hit in March of 2018 in San Jose. Within days, I was up to my neck in debt, having surgery and unsure on how to proceed. I contacted Bay Area Bicycle Law with a brief description of what happened and the police report. It amazes me the amount of compassion and understanding Lucy Allen displayed when working on my case. She was always willing to answer my questions and inform me about the process. This process could have been so much harder if I had gone somewhere else. I am so grateful for their work and would recommend them to anyone who needs some help with a bicycle accident.
Review Left On 07/02/2019
Michael Laflamme
Fantastic experience. Prompt contact after submitting my online inquiry. Follow up with an email later as well. I had already passed my court date, but I am kicking myself for not contacting them beforehand. Absolute friendly and easy connection. Don't wait like I did. Contact them immediately.
Review Left On 06/02/2019
Paul Cathey
I reached out for a free consultation after an accident that left me confused how to proceed legally and with insurance. Their online chat service scheduled a phone call with one of their attorneys who got back to me on the next business day. Kyle helped explain all the options, possibilities, and outcomes of the situation. It was great to have a local biker and attorney to speak with.
Response time was fast, thorough and they did not charge me for the consultation. A dedicated team of cyclists and attorneys. Highly recommended.
Review Left On 06/02/2019
KC Chang
I was hesitant about getting a lawyer after being plowed by a minivan while going through a traffic circle but I'm so glad did. I came upon BABL after a Google search and are so glad I reached out. They responded quickly, explained the intricacies of the law, and what my rights are. There was no pressure and I could feel they truly care and are empathetic over my injuries. James, Kyle, and the BABL team were awesome and patiently guided me through the whole process. They kept me up to date on everything and resolved my case quickly and professionally. They truly advocates for the cyclist.
Review Left On 06/02/2019
Michael Xie
I was in a bicycle accident, was hit from behind by a car who run up to a T-intersection. Driver already agreed to be responsible. Then the worst nightmare just started. The police officer arrived was very rude, and said that I should be responsible for everything (because I was hit, in that officer's logic). I felt very down, did not know what to do, contacted Bay Area Bicycle Law. Mr. James Cheney called me back. He is one of the nicest people you meet in your life. After I was so upset about the ordeal with that rude officer. Mr. James Cheney reminded me all the good people we meet in our life, people who listen, care. And of cause, they are the expert in this area. He patiently listened to the whole story, explained to me what could be the options going forward, and provided all the information. Even in my case, the property damage is very small. He provided help, document template for free, and offered further help if needed. Thank you, Bay Area Bicyle Law!
Review Left On 05/02/2019
Jenya Anderzhanova
James has been so helpful. He guided me through the whole process with patience and care. He answered multiple emails with great tips and suggestions. They are very knowledgeable and honest. I did feel like I am in good hands of professionals who care for your well being and your stress level. Thank you
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Daniel Savage
Michelle helped me deal with the insurance company after I was hit on my bike. She is knowledgeable and helpful. She went above and beyond. If you're needing help after getting hit on your bike, Bay Area Bicycle Law is absolutely awesome!
Review Left On 03/02/2018
DMC_383
Been talking back and forth with Michael for about a year as I've needed advice handling my crash claim. He has been extremely helpful and the advice is free. I have nothing but utmost respect for this practice and the fact that it isn't just leading you into needing them later. Honest advice, timely replies. Thanks for the assistance!
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Gary Menezes
I was in a minor bicycle-auto crash and all the cycling friends I asked recommended these people. Kyle called me the very next day after I filled out the contact form on their website. My injuries weren't serious enough to involve a lawyer, but he gave me free advice :) Kyle followed up with an email offering more advice if I have questions in the future! I can't review their legal chops, but these folks are super friendly and helpful. (And if you're in a crash check out the "Information About Your Crash" page on their website for what you should do.)
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Stephan Kizziah
Micheal Stephenson of Bay Area Bicycle Law did an excellent job. I recieved a very fair settlement in less then a year of my accident. Michael Stephenson explained all options and aswered questions promptly. Highly recommended
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Kyle Ord
Kyle Smith gave me a great consultation to help me understand my options after I was hit by a car while riding my bike. I came away from the conversation with so much clarity for how I could deal with the insurance negotiations and when I would need to seek legal counsel.
Thanks Bay Area Bicycle Law!
Review Left On 03/02/2018
J. Stephenson
After getting hit by a car on a routine ride one summer day and (naively) thinking my insurance would pay for my four days of hospitalization, I learned of the small print in my policy. With that, I knew things were 'above my pay grade' and reluctantly turned to a lawyer. Bay Area Bicycle Law was thorough and took care of me--even calling back on a holiday. The staff and Michael Stephenson (no relation) understood my needs, offering empathy when needed and a bulldog attitude when getting my costs paid for. Throughout the process, I learned the wheels of the law and insurance companies run slow, but after all was said and done, it was worth the wait and worth having Bay Area Bicycle Law on my side. And I hope I never need them again!
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Ben Thornton
To my astonishment, Bay Area Bicycle Law offers FREE legal advice to cyclists. I had some questions and Michael Stephenson took the time to answer them thoughtfully and politely. If you have a cycling incident, give them a call.
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Bobbie Todd
I called Mr. Stephenson for legal advice. He was extremely helpful, offering his time and expertise at no cost. He helped me understand my rights and legal position. His knowledge helped me work out a fair settlement without litigation. He was kind and understanding. I would highly recommend him.
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Jesse Sky
I contacted several attouneys. I liked Bay Area Bicycle Law and have been in communication with Kyle about my on going case. Although I'm representing myself, Kyle has been a great asset to me in understanding the legal landscape, weighing options and guiding me through how to gain the best settlement. I've had a very positive experience with Bay Area Bike Law and have been impressed with how Klye has gone beyond my expectations in his communication and assistance.
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Jimmy Moe
These guys are amazing!! I was apprehensive to use a lawyer because I thought it was going to cost me a lot...not only was I wrong but I was SO GLAD I did it and you will be too. So professional, thorough and they did ALL the hard work. I'd recommend them to literally anyone.
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Rietta Hohman
I was involved in an awful accident where I collided with a taxi while on my bike. Four broken bones and months of recovery later, I was still contemplating tackling a settlement on my own. I am SO glad I chose to go with Bay Area Bicyle Law instead. I worked primarily with Kyle Smith. At first I was apprehensive about the costs associated with hiring a lawyer, however I realize now that I would not have settled. for anywhere close to the final settlement by myself. I can't recommend Kyle and BA Bicycle Law enough - it was reassuring to know they had everything handled. It all went smoothly and I knew what to expect at every step along the way.
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Selven Virasawmy
My wife had a bicycle accident when a cyclist ahead of her suddenly cut across her path, while they were cycling downhill along a road. The cyclist did not go over to check on my wife. She ended up bed-ridden and in severe pain, and I was clearly not in the best state of mind to handle paperwork and a law case. I checked Yelp and tried my luck with Bay Area Bicycle Law. Michael called me immediately after my inquiry to brief me about the case. Given that we could not find eye witnesses, I had doubts about a successful outcome to this case. However, Kyle Smith and Michael went all out to help us with the case. Even though my wife is still in pain, I am happy that she got fair compensation for what she endured. Kyle was prompt in replying to all of our communications, and helped us to resolve our medical bills, which was the last thing I wanted to attend to. Like others mentioned, I hope that you have no recourse to a personal injury lawyer but if you do, I would gladly recommend this law firm.
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Jason Ford
Kyle represented me after I was hit by a driver while riding my bike home in Menlo Park. If you've been injured in a bicycle accident I highly recommend working with Kyle and the Bay Area Bike Law team. They'll shoot straight and help you get a fair settlement.
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Daniel Gatadero
My personal experience as a client of attorney Kyle Smith and his colleagues at Bay Area Bicycle Law is as positive and helpful as it could ever be. Their expertise began with knowledgeable understanding, moral support and care for what was a deeply traumatic experience... the type of support which is difficult for serious bicycle riders to obtain, even from medical professionals, friends and family members. The real benefit this law firm provided, however, was that I was free to focus on healing myself; as Kyle and his legal team adeptly performed all the diligence required. It's certainly not easy trying to navigate the often-changing regulations and devious strategies of big insurance corporations who intend to maximize their profits by reducing the compensation owed to claimants. I am firmly convinced that Bay Area Bicycle Law secured the best possible settlement for me, and will definitely return to seek their assistance again, if I'm ever involved in another incident.
Review Left On 03/02/2018
Andrewsyoso
Michael, Lucy and Michelle were all helpful to me in the process of my personal injury case. They explained to me every details that I need to know about the case and what paperworks to submit. Michelle guided me during the deposition, so I felt more confident in answering the questions, because I know they got my back. They even sent a professional nurse to accompany me to the defense’s medical examination, to make sure that it was done right. All the way to the end of the case, I felt assured and less stressed, so I was able to focus more with my medical treatments. They helped me get the most possible amount of compensation and also negotiated to lower my medical expenses with the insurance provider. I definitely recommend them to anyone who has to go through a personal injury case from a bicycle accident.
Review Left On 03/02/2017
Erika Prieto
Almost 4 years ago I was violently thrown off of my bike while riding home from work by a negligent taxi driver. Back then I was nineteen and barely making it on my own when I received my first round of hospital bills. I didn't know what to do until somebody recommended Bay Area Bicycle Law.
Michael Stephenson quickly responded after I sent him the details surrounding my case. He was extremely helpful and was always so patient with me when I would get anxious or upset about the case which I am extremely grateful for.
Michelle Weiss and John Poulter were the attorneys who represented me during trial and I still to this day can't thank them enough for remaining so cool, calm and collected throughout the entirety of my case. They were up against the team of most prestigious attorneys from a large taxi corporation but that didn't sway them from getting the verdict we knew we deserved.
I am forever grateful to Bay Area Bicycle Law and their dedicated team of attorneys. I highly recommend them to anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation!
Review Left On 03/02/2017
Ari K
Excellent free advice provided for hit and run. I had filled out a form on their site and then they called me first thing the next day. They listened to my accident run down then provided detailed advice from health to insurance and police, and street cameras. Can't beleive how helpful they were, with no obligation, and they also encouraged me to contact them again for any future advice. I feel so much better at this time.
Review Left On 03/02/2017
Samuel Starr
Michael was amazingly generous with his time. Despite the fact that we weren't going to trial together, he spent 20 minutes with me advising me on how to best deal with the small claims court process. We are so lucky in the Bay Area to have an office dedicated to serving the cycling community. If I ever need them again, I will be happy to request their services without hesitation.
Review Left On 03/02/2017
Eric Admati
I was in a bike accident the other day. I spoke with Michael Stevenson. He was very patient, helpful, and informative. We spoke for a while, he came across very sincere, and there was no charge for his time.
Review Left On 03/02/2017
Esther Yeu
After being hit by a car while riding my bike - 100% driver's fault according to the police report - I found myself negotiating with the insurance company for months. Feeling uncertain of what I was doing, I called BABL and over the course of a phone call and record review, Michael Stephenson was able to advise me on next steps and help me understand what was reasonable. Free, practical advice all delivered in a professional and friendly manner. If you're uncertain of whether to contact an attorney, contact them.
Review Left On 03/02/2017
Lisa Miyako
This is not so much a review as it is a recommendation. In my case, an inattentive driver “doored” me, causing a broken clavicle and damage to my bicycle. Unsure about my ability to advocate for myself and having to be out of the country for many months, I contacted Michael Stephenson to advocate on my behalf. After much pushing against the driver’s insurance company and their frankly insulting low-ball offers, Michael Stephenson and Lucy Allen were able to obtain what I considered a fair settlement. Both Michael and Lucy were attentive and responsive (our contact was primarily through email), instilling well-deserved confidence such that I was able to relax while they did the hard work. I appreciate that very much. I hope I won’t need their services again, but I can wholeheartedly recommend them and BABL to those facing similar misfortunes.
Review Left On 03/02/2017
Chris Harland-Dunaway
I was the victim of a hit and run in Oakland, and despite having 5 witnesses, the Alameda DA wouldn't prosecute the case. I took the case to civil court and Michael Stephenson and Michelle Weiss persuaded to the judge to upgrade the case to punitive damages, which is not only difficult, but uncommon. Michelle Weiss guided me through my deposition, and was a strong negotiator during settlement mediation. I am extremely satisfied with their work, I highly recommend Bay Area Bicycle Law's representation.
Review Left On 03/02/2017
Mike Bombace
I left the firm a voicemail on late Sunday after an accident where I was hit by a cyclist. They got back Monday (today) and I connected with Michael Stevenson. They were booked with cases (a great sign in my opinion), and could not take my case but walked me through basics, listened to me, and gave me great advice on next steps. They then provided a great referral. I hope I do not need to call them again. If I do, I will return, as well as recommend them to others.
Review Left On 03/02/2016
Mark Kashima
Emailed BABL through their website and Michael Stephenson called me directly later that day. I was able to speak with him the next day and he offered great advice (for free) on my insurance claim that has been pending for over 4 months now. I will update this review as I get farther along in the process. If you are seriously injured in a bicycle accident and need surgery and will incur lost wages, you need to contact BABL immediately. For other less severe accidents, their free consultation is awesome and will help you get started with the process. I should have contacted Michael two months ago. With the advice he has given me I can hopefully get this claim process moving forward.
UPDATE - Michael gave me a template to complete a claim letter to submit to the insurance companies. Within days of submission I received my property damage settlement. It took another 10 days but I also received an offer for my bodily injury settlement. Michael's advice was just awesome and I would not hesitate to contact him if you need legal counsel for a bike accident.
Review Left On 03/02/2016
Elizabeth Sullivan
Michael Stephenson and Bay Area Bicycle Law helped me out when I was in an accident last year. I was doored in the bike lane on Valencia street, and got a trip to the emergency room in an ambulance instead of a date with my husband. This little adventure came with bills for amounts of money I have never even seen before and I panicked. And the driver's insurance company tried to get me to give them a statement before I even knew my rights. But Michael calmed me right down and walked me through the process. He turned a nightmare experience into one that was manageable and even simple. His office took over and did everything and I could just concentrate on getting better. We bicyclists have to stick together and fight for our rights in the Bay Area. Bay Area Bicycle Law is an invaluable asset in this. I highly recommend them.
Review Left On 03/02/2016
Katherine Chandler
Bay Area Bicycle Law provided me with excellent legal services after I was involved in a small bicycle accident. They were highly professional, helping me to track down the insurance information of the driver and assist me with the claim. I highly recommend their services!!!
Review Left On 03/02/2016
Sara Blaylock
Amazing service!! I sent them a message and Michael Stephenson called me immediately for a free consultation. He was very sympathetic and walked me through the process as it was my first serious bike accident. I felt like I was in very good hands. Thank you!
Review Left On 03/02/2016
jayryan1356
This organization was very helpful providing FREE consultation for a bicycle traffic collision I was involved in. The lawyer (Michael Stephenson) I was helped by showed obvious concern for my problem, and was gracious in helping me solve it. He corresponded quickly, and informatively. I recommend this organization for anyone with a bike related accident.
Review Left On 03/02/2016
Ryan Teixeira
I just wanted to say that Michael Stephenson and the other bicycle accident lawyers at Bay Area Bicycle Law are the best bicycle accident lawyers out there! I have been a serious cyclist for years and got hit by a truck in 2012 that fractured my spine and sent me to the hospital with more than six-figures in medical bills. Even though the officer wrote in the report that the truck driver was at fault and had run the red light, the insurance company decided to disregard the police report (which I was shocked to learn they are legally able to do in California!) and tried to deny compensation for my damages because I didn’t have a light on my bike and had been riding in the crosswalk (even though the officer said those things didn't have anything to do with how the accident happened anyway).
I thought that since the police were in my favor and my medical bills were so high that the insurance company would just pay up right away. But it was totally the opposite and they fought harder than ever!
I'm so glad I called Bay Area Bicycle Law because Michael and Lucy were able to find a security camera at a nearby Walmart that had camera footage of the accident and talked the Walmart security people into handing over a copy that day without getting into a big legal fight about it. They also got the insurance company to back down on denying my compensation due to the bike light and crosswalk (which I felt had nothing to do with why the accident occurred). Even after all that, the insurance company tried to say that they shouldn't have to pay the entire insurance policy limit because they thought my injuries were not serious enough. At that point Michael recommended we file a lawsuit and advised me that this would probably be what was needed to get the insurance company to cave in. Michael took care of all the paperwork and I didn't have to go to court once.
In the end, not only were they able to get the truck’s insurance company to pay the maximum policy limit, but Bay Area Bicycle Law also managed to get my medical bills COMPLETELY WAIVED, so I got to keep my entire share of the settlement!!! It took filing the lawsuit to get the insurance company to cave in, but the insurance company caved in less than two weeks after Michael filed the lawsuit. I’m so glad that I listened to Michael’s advice on how to proceed.
I am so grateful for everything Michael, Lucy, and Bay Area Bicycle Law has done for me and I still stay in touch with them a few times a year. Great attorneys and great people. Your first call after a bicycle accident should be to Bay Area Bicycle Law!!!
Ryan
P.S. I'm happy to say that I'm now back to riding 40-mile runs with my cycling buddies, but now on the excellent bike I bought with some of my settlement money!
Reviews
I called Bay Area Bicycle Law and Michelle was assigned to my case. I had wanted to reach out to the police, the driver, my insurance, etc ... but as insincere as it might sound, call these folks first. Really. Regardless of fault, helmets, street conditions - they know how to navigate the logistical aftermath of a bicycle crash - and THAT is what you need help with.
I could not have asked for a better person than Michelle to be my advocate. After my case had been basically settled, Michelle negotiated additional recovery money even though none of it would benefit the law firm. These folks work for you.
I hope you never need to call them ... but sh!t happens - and call these good people if it does.
While dealing with an insurance company could be a long and complicated process, James made it really smooth and easy for me and took care of everything. I followed his advice at every step and am super happy with the result!
Could not ask for a better lawyer!
I felt helpless and decided to reach out to Bay Area Bicycle Law. James G Cheney followed up with me the next business day. He was very kind and explained to me my options and to his great patience because I do not in anyway have any clues to how these things worked. He informed me of my rights and what steps to follow. He even suggested I try this on my own since I may not need legal representation so I wouldn't have to pay for his services. He stated that they're here for the cycling community and to make sure we're safe and know our rights. Had he said that to me in the beginning of our conversation and later quote me his rates, I would have thought "figures, typical attorney" but the fact that he suggested I try on my own first to save money; I was blown away.
I feel more confident and less at the mercy of Farmers. Thanks James! If I need help I know who I'm going to!!!
Kyle was able to clearly explain my options for correctly dealing with the situation. The level of knowledge and professionalism along with truly understanding what it's like to be a cyclist on the streets of Bay Area was very assuring. I'm beyond satisfied with the service he provided to me and if I had 2 pieces of advice to anyone being unfortunate to be in this situation is:
1) Get a police report
2) Call Bay Area Bicycle Law
Hoping to not ever be a repeat customer, but if need be, I'd do so without hesitation!
It amazes me the amount of compassion and understanding Lucy Allen displayed when working on my case. She was always willing to answer my questions and inform me about the process. This process could have been so much harder if I had gone somewhere else. I am so grateful for their work and would recommend them to anyone who needs some help with a bicycle accident.
Response time was fast, thorough and they did not charge me for the consultation. A dedicated team of cyclists and attorneys. Highly recommended.
Highly recommended
Thanks Bay Area Bicycle Law!
The staff and Michael Stephenson (no relation) understood my needs, offering empathy when needed and a bulldog attitude when getting my costs paid for.
Throughout the process, I learned the wheels of the law and insurance companies run slow, but after all was said and done, it was worth the wait and worth having Bay Area Bicycle Law on my side. And I hope I never need them again!
They helped me get the most possible amount of compensation and also negotiated to lower my medical expenses with the insurance provider.
I definitely recommend them to anyone who has to go through a personal injury case from a bicycle accident.
Michael Stephenson quickly responded after I sent him the details surrounding my case. He was extremely helpful and was always so patient with me when I would get anxious or upset about the case which I am extremely grateful for.
Michelle Weiss and John Poulter were the attorneys who represented me during trial and I still to this day can't thank them enough for remaining so cool, calm and collected throughout the entirety of my case. They were up against the team of most prestigious attorneys from a large taxi corporation but that didn't sway them from getting the verdict we knew we deserved.
I am forever grateful to Bay Area Bicycle Law and their dedicated team of attorneys. I highly recommend them to anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation!
Can't beleive how helpful they were, with no obligation, and they also encouraged me to contact them again for any future advice. I feel so much better at this time.
UPDATE - Michael gave me a template to complete a claim letter to submit to the insurance companies. Within days of submission I received my property damage settlement. It took another 10 days but I also received an offer for my bodily injury settlement. Michael's advice was just awesome and I would not hesitate to contact him if you need legal counsel for a bike accident.
I thought that since the police were in my favor and my medical bills were so high that the insurance company would just pay up right away. But it was totally the opposite and they fought harder than ever!
I'm so glad I called Bay Area Bicycle Law because Michael and Lucy were able to find a security camera at a nearby Walmart that had camera footage of the accident and talked the Walmart security people into handing over a copy that day without getting into a big legal fight about it. They also got the insurance company to back down on denying my compensation due to the bike light and crosswalk (which I felt had nothing to do with why the accident occurred). Even after all that, the insurance company tried to say that they shouldn't have to pay the entire insurance policy limit because they thought my injuries were not serious enough. At that point Michael recommended we file a lawsuit and advised me that this would probably be what was needed to get the insurance company to cave in. Michael took care of all the paperwork and I didn't have to go to court once.
In the end, not only were they able to get the truck’s insurance company to pay the maximum policy limit, but Bay Area Bicycle Law also managed to get my medical bills COMPLETELY WAIVED, so I got to keep my entire share of the settlement!!! It took filing the lawsuit to get the insurance company to cave in, but the insurance company caved in less than two weeks after Michael filed the lawsuit. I’m so glad that I listened to Michael’s advice on how to proceed.
I am so grateful for everything Michael, Lucy, and Bay Area Bicycle Law has done for me and I still stay in touch with them a few times a year. Great attorneys and great people. Your first call after a bicycle accident should be to Bay Area Bicycle Law!!!
Ryan
P.S. I'm happy to say that I'm now back to riding 40-mile runs with my cycling buddies, but now on the excellent bike I bought with some of my settlement money!