What to Do if You’re in a Bicycle Accident
If you have been in a bicycle accident recently, you are probably shocked and confused—if not severely injured.
Remember, the person can apologize at the scene of the accident, only to change from remorse to anger in a heartbeat. Even if you exchanged contact details, be sure to solicit legal counsel before you speak further to the offending rider or driver or the opposing attorney.
Things to Do
In addition to securing legal counsel, there are a number of things that you should do as well. If you are not severely injured and you can walk, it doesn’t mean that you should be relieved only for that one victory.
Yes, it is great that you still have life, but there are steps to take because you don’t know if you will experience long-term pain after the accident.
Common Bicycle Accidents
Here are some common causes of bicycle accidents.
- Vehicles making a left-hand turn in the pathway of the cyclist who may be going in the opposite direction. The driver of the vehicle usually does not see the cyclist until the person is hit by the car.
- Vehicles passing a cyclist in a bike lane might instantly make a direct right turn into the pathway of the cyclist
- Vehicle owner might open the door suddenly while a cyclist is riding by
The Accident Scene
Call the police to the scene of the accident, no matter if you are hurt or not. The police will take statements and file a report based on the information received from both parties. Protect yourself by getting all of the driver’s information, such as:
- Address
- Insurance
- License plate number
- Phone number
Be advised…If anyone witnessed the accident, you should make sure to get his or her phone numbers and names, too. In any accident, if you are a victim, never admit being at fault and never minimize the injuries that you have sustained. Be aware of the damage to your bike as well.
The Medical Bill
Don’t worry about who will pay the medical bills. The insurance company will be introduced by the vehicle owner and you will file a claim. After the claim is filed with the vehicle owner’s insurance company, your attorney will recommend possible chiropractic and medical care. Those bills will go directly to the insurance company.
Be aware that…the vehicle owner, even if at fault, will also file an insurance claim. That is why you need an attorney to defend you.
Loss Recovery
Even though, you may have physical injuries, you also have to consider personal losses and pain and suffering. If the vehicle owner was at fault, then the auto liability insurance will offer coverage for your damaged bicycle.
Be advised…Your attorney may suggest that you have your bicycle inspected at a bike shop for estimated damages. Don’t wait too long to have this done or you may discover weeks later that there was undetected damages.
Making Your Demands
An experienced attorney will challenge the insurance company, demanding them to declare that the bike is damaged beyond repair. You can get that in writing after the inspection has been completed at the bike shop, especially if it is determined that the bike is not safe to ride.
Bicycle accidents are initially scary. You may be relieved that you are alive, however, you also have a right to a settlement and to be compensated for your injuries and losses. For that reason, you should protect your legal rights by speaking to an experienced attorney.
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