A bicycle accident may happen at any time. When it does, the rider is probably confused and disoriented. They have little protection while riding a bike, so injuries are common, even in minor accidents. What steps should the biker take to protect their health and safeguard their legal rights?
Safety First
The first thing you should do following an accident on your bicycle is to ensure your safety and try to move to a safe location to prevent another accident. Confirm this place is away from traffic. If moving is impossible, stay put and ask witnesses to block off the area to prevent additional accidents and injuries. Remain calm and stay still so any injuries do not worsen.
Call for Help
Individuals should always call emergency services following a bicycle accident, even if they don’t believe they have injuries. First responders will arrive and assess the situation. Medical professionals can examine everyone involved in the accident to see if additional care is needed. Law enforcement officers will document the accident, and the reports generated will be helpful if an insurance or legal claim must be filed. People often skip this step, believing they are fine. When the adrenaline wears off, they discover they were injured and must now visit the emergency room or their doctor.
Gather Evidence
Bicyclists should collect evidence at the accident site if they are able. Photographs help show what happened. Take pictures of the accident scene, the bike and any other vehicles involved, the road conditions, and the weather. Visible injuries should also be documented in photos.
Ask witnesses for their names and contact information. They may be called on to share what they know about the accident. An attorney or insurance provider may wish to speak to those present when the accident occurred. Collect information about the other parties involved in the accident. Request their driver’s license, insurance details, and contact information.
Visit a Doctor
Visit a doctor to be checked out. Internal bleeding and tissue damage may not be readily apparent. The doctor will thoroughly examine each victim and determine whether underlying issues have yet to become evident.
Report the Accident
If law enforcement did not visit the accident scene, contact the local police department to report the incident. An official report is a documented account of the accident, and many insurance companies require this report when filing a claim. The document will also be needed if the case goes to court.
Many victims share too much information when speaking to insurance companies. When contacting insurers, share minimal information regarding the accident. They twist simple statements to make it seem like the person filing the claim exaggerates. It’s best to hire an attorney and allow them to speak to the insurance company to avoid potential problems.
Victims should notify their insurance company immediately if they have personal injury protection. The company will need all evidence relating to the accident and will verify the details before any claims can be processed.
Any person involved in a bicycle accident should contact an accident attorney for guidance. They might find there is no need for an attorney because the case is open and shut, but it never hurts to learn this from a legal professional. Accident attorneys typically work on a contingency fee, so victims have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Contact an attorney today.
