Cycling is a great way to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors, but accidents can catch anyone off guard. Knowing what to do after a crash is critical for your recovery and legal protection. Each step matters, from getting medical help to documenting the scene.
When the situation gets complicated, working with a personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the process and fight for what you deserve. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to get you started.
1. Prioritize Your Safety and Get Medical Attention
The very first thing that you must consider immediately following any accident is the question of your safety: Look at yourself for possible injury.
Many times, even if one does feel okay, they can experience concussion or internal bleeding. Later pain or discomfort mustn't be dismissed-it can be serious.
If you are on a busy road, then try to move to a safer location but not far away from the scene of the accident.
If someone got injured, call 911 to report the incident for immediate medical attention from the rescuers and to have some records of this incident created. These will be crucial in the next stages.
2. Call the Police and File a Report
You might think calling the police is just not necessary if the accident seems minor, but this is a critical step. The police document what happened and gather statements from witnesses, including an official report.
This report will be crucial evidence when dealing with the insurance company or, if necessary, in court. You need to give your side of what happened to the police, but again, stick to the facts. Do not admit guilt or assume what caused the accident.
3. Evidence Collection at the Scene
If possible, document the evidence immediately. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be. Use your phone camera to take pictures of the scene, your bike, any vehicles that were involved, your injuries, and any road hazards that can be seen.
Make sure to include license plates, traffic signs, and any skid marks on the road. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information. Witness statements can be powerful in determining fault.
Also, while it is still fresh in your head, write down everything that you can remember about the accident: include everything from the weather conditions to the condition of the flow of traffic and anything that you found unusual leading up to the accident.
4. Information exchange with the other party
Once you can ensure that all people are safe, exchange contact and insurance information with another party involved in the accident. Examples of such information are name, phone number, driver's license number, and details regarding an insurance policy.
Be polite, but don't discuss, blame or say anything that might be used against you. Even a statement such as, "I'm sorry," can in some instances be used as an admission of guilt.
Say as little as possible and only what is necessary to get information; let the professionals decide on fault.
5. Inform the Insurance Company
If you have one, you must contact your insurance company right away from the scene of an accident, even if it wasn't your fault.
Many cyclists do not contact their own insurance carriers due to the mistaken perception that car insurance does not cover bicycle accidents - very often, it does.
When you speak with your insurer, all you have to say is the facts and not speculate on anybody's fault. Tell them what happened, give them whatever evidence you've collected, and include a copy of the police report if available.
6. Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If it is an accident involving a bicycle and the injuries are bad, or there is objection from another party, legal advice will serve the case much better.
An accomplished lawyer will lead you through the process of claiming, negotiating with the insurers, and fighting for your entitlements to the maximum due to you.
Moreover, the lawyer will be better placed to explain to you your rights, whether or not you could be entitled to more than a medical expense for other losses, such as wages lost because of the injury, suffering, and even probably property damage.
If you’re in Texas, contacting a Chicago bicycle accident attorney can provide the specialized expertise you need for local laws and procedures.
7. Keep a Record of Your Medical Care and Expenses
You should document your treatment and medical expenses comprehensively after the accident. This would involve doctor visits, physical therapy, medicines, and necessary equipment, such as crutches or a wheelchair.
Save all your receipts, bills, and letters to and from doctors and hospitals. Records will be vital in proving financial damages related to the accident. Second, start maintaining a log of your recovery process.
Document how the injuries have impacted your daily activities: physical pain, psychological effects, inability to pursue a hobby you enjoyed. In some jurisdictions, this information serves as proof of non-economic damages.
Winding Up
Bicycle accidents are traumatic, but knowing your next steps can make all the difference. From prioritizing your safety to consulting an accident attorney, each step is crucial in protecting your rights and ensuring a smooth recovery.
Take things one step at a time, keep organized, and never be afraid to ask for help. You got this!
This article was written in cooperation with DJC Law