Some Things to Consider After a Bike Accident
As U.S. Cities become more bicycle-friendly by adding bike lanes and widening roadways, more bicycle riders are now riding in the streets. As bicyclists ride alongside vans, cars, trucks, and motorcycles, the number of accidents between bicycles and motor vehicles are on the rise. Bicycle accidents can be scary for all parties involved, but bicyclists are at an increased risk of serious injury because they have the least amount of protection between their body and the pavement.
If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, you may not know what to do next. The answer, of course, depends on your situation. Your safety and well-being should be your first concern. There is no one-size-fits-all approach after a bike accident, but there are a few options to consider after the crash.
The most important thing is your physical well-being. Once you are certain that you are not in immediate physical danger, you may want to notify the police and, if possible, wait for them to arrive at the scene of the crash. Even if you think you may not be injured, it is helpful to file a police report as symptoms may appear or worsen hours or even days after a bicycle accident. Some injuries have a delayed onset of symptoms. Minor aches and pains may eventually develop into serious physical anguish in a short period of time.
While some drivers will take immediate responsibility for the accident, they may change their position later on in the process. It is important to wait for the police to arrive and have the police document what took place. The responding officer may even ticket the driver, which can work in your favor down the road.
When speaking with the police, do what you can to make sure your version of events is reflected in the accident report. Report your injuries, no matter how minor they seem at the time. If the police decline to speak with you at the accident scene about what happened, you can potentially call the police at a later date and ask to have your version of events added to the report.
Document the Accident Scene and Your Injuries
Take notes of what happened before and after the bike accident, including where the accident specifically occurred (name of the road, cross streets, house number, etc.), time of day, road, and weather conditions. If you have your phone, you may want to consider taking photos of the scene of the accident. Document your bike accident injuries, especially if you have a laceration or road rash.
Injured in a Bike Accident? Call William Mattar.
If you are an injured bicyclist in this type of situation, you may want to consider consulting our experienced bicycle accident attorneys at William Mattar law offices to help analyze and navigate the complex legal issues that can arise after a bike crash. Our injury attorneys can advise you on how to proceed in terms of negotiating with the insurance company and, if necessary, representing you in a lawsuit against the driver. Contact us to file a claim today at (844) 444 - 4444.