What to Do After a Bicycle Accident: Essential Steps for Cyclists

Every person riding a bike must take care and do everything possible to avoid a crash. These accidents often lead to severe injuries, as there is nothing to protect the bicyclist from harm. When an accident happens, the bicyclist must know how to protect their rights and ensure they receive the care they need while having the responsible party pay for it.

Find a Safe Place to Check for Injuries

If you are hit by a car on your bike, try to find a safe place to pull over and check yourself for injuries. Call for medical help regardless of whether there are apparent injuries. Symptoms might not appear for a few hours or days. Adrenaline can mask pain immediately after the accident. Check the helmet. If it is damaged in any way, seek medical care to rule out a traumatic brain injury. This visit must be documented to show proof of the injuries if the case moves forward.

Contact Law Enforcement

Bicyclists must report every accident, regardless of how minor. The officer will take a report needed for insurance purposes or a lawsuit. This report should include information about the vehicle involved in the accident, the driver, where the car was located in relation to the vehicle, and any visible damage. The officer will include information about injuries, road conditions, and traffic signs and signals in this report. They will also take photos of the accident site. Request their name and badge number along with the report number.

Avoid Communicating with Insurance Companies

People aren’t required to talk to insurance companies following an accident. Victims should never do so because the insurance company will try to get them to say something that could reduce any compensation they receive.

Insurers often offer a quick settlement in the hopes of paying out less. Bicyclists should hold off on accepting a settlement to see if any injuries appear after a delay.

Consult an Attorney

Bicyclists should consult with an attorney after an accident with a car. The attorney will ensure that all information supporting the victim’s claim is gathered to share with the insurance company or for use in a lawsuit. This proof will include numerous documents and photos, including medical records and pictures of the accident site. The attorney will also help the victim keep an expense log that outlines everything the victim has spent related to the accident.

The attorney helps the victim logically organize this material to prove the claim. They also talk with the insurance company so the victim doesn’t have to and will ensure nothing is said that can harm the victim’s case. They understand the laws relating to this type of accident and how they relate to the case. Furthermore, they will negotiate a settlement on behalf of the client or argue the case in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Bicyclists should take steps to avoid an accident. They should wear the proper safety gear, including a helmet certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission or another organization. Bicyclists must also follow all traffic rules and know the laws to avoid issues.

Be aware of your surroundings and watch for drivers. Riding defensively while avoiding distractions is essential to prevent an accident. Lastly, maintain the bike to ensure it works as intended. By taking these steps, bicyclists can reduce the risk of an accident and enjoy each ride fully.

About Author

Mylarin Qynthoril

See author's posts