Being struck by a car while riding a bicycle is a traumatic experience, both physically and emotionally. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can make a significant difference in protecting your health and legal rights.
In this blog, we’ll provide six essential tips that bicyclists should follow after being hit by a vehicle, ensuring they are in the best position to recover and pursue compensation.
1. Get to Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Immediately after the bicycle accident, your priority should be to move out of harm’s way if possible. If you are able, get yourself to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further injury. However, do not attempt to move if you believe you have suffered a serious injury, such as a head, neck, or back injury—wait for emergency medical responders.
Even if you feel relatively fine, it is critical to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Adrenaline and shock can mask injuries, and certain conditions, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Additionally, having a medical record of your injuries will play a vital role in any potential legal action.
2. Call the Police and File a Report
One of the most important actions you can take after a bicycle accident is to contact the police. Even if the vehicle driver suggests handling the situation without police involvement, filing an official report is crucial. The police report will document the accident, provide an impartial account, and include information about the driver, your injuries, and any possible witnesses.
Ensure that the officer notes your version of the events accurately. This report will serve as key evidence if you need to make an insurance claim or pursue a personal injury lawsuit.
3. Gather Information and Evidence
Gathering as much information and evidence as possible after the bike accident is essential to support your injury claim. Use your phone to take photos of the accident scene, including:
- Damage to both the vehicle and your bicycle
- Your visible injuries
- Skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, and any other relevant details
Make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the driver. If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information as well. They may be able to provide a neutral account of what happened, which can help bolster your case. These types of bicycle crash procedures can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.
4. Avoid Talking About Fault or Apologizing
In the heat of the moment, it’s natural to want to explain your side of the story or express concern for the other party involved. However, it’s essential to avoid saying anything that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Even statements like “I didn’t see you” or “I’m sorry” could be used against you later when filing a claim or pursuing legal action.
Stick to the facts when speaking to the police and other involved parties. Leave the determination of fault to the evidence and legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected as you follow proper post-collision bicycle steps.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
While the driver’s insurance will likely be involved in handling the claim, it’s important to notify your own insurance company as well. Some policies include personal injury protection (PIP) coverage or uninsured motorist coverage, which can help cover your medical expenses and other costs if the driver is uninsured or underinsured.
When communicating with insurance companies, be cautious about making any detailed statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, so it’s essential to know your rights and have proper legal guidance.
6. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating the legal process after a bicycle accident can be challenging, especially when you’re dealing with injuries and insurance companies. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation.
An experienced attorney can help:
- Gather and preserve evidence
- Handle communication with insurance companies
- Assess the true value of your claim, including pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages
- Ensure that you are not pressured into accepting a low settlement
Your lawyer will guide you through each step of the legal process, ensuring that your case is handled professionally and that you have the best chance of a successful outcome. Legal assistance is one of the most important bicycle accident actions to take, as it can significantly affect the compensation you receive.
Why Taking These Steps Is Crucial for Bicyclists
The aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, but following these six critical steps — seeking medical attention, calling the police, gathering evidence, avoiding discussions of fault, notifying your insurance, and contacting a lawyer — can help protect your health and legal rights. These actions not only ensure that you get the medical care you need but also strengthen your case if you decide to seek compensation.
At Sieben Edmunds Miller, our experienced personal injury lawyers understand the challenges bicyclists face after a collision with a vehicle. We’re here to help you navigate the legal process, fight for your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident and need help navigating the legal process, contact Sieben Edmunds Miller today. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in your recovery.
