After a bicycle accident there are certain things that you need to do to protect your health and safety and your legal rights. Bike accident injuries can be very expensive, even if you do not think you are hurt immediately after your accident while your adrenaline is still pumping. Take these steps to ensure that your medical needs are addressed, you do not have another accident due to unseen damage to your bike, and you can receive compensation for your injuries and property damage.
- If you are in the road, get out of the flow of traffic so you are not hit again.
- Get the license plate number of the driver who hit you as soon as possible, in case they flee the scene.
- Call the police and wait for them to arrive. Make sure that your version of the events is included in the police report. You will need that report for evidence.
- Get names and contact information for the driver and all witnesses. Also get the driver’s license number of the person who hit you.
- If you can, take pictures of everything including your bicycle, the car that hit you, driver, witnesses, your injuries, and anything that could be pertinent such as skid marks or obscured signs.
- If you decide to ride your bike when leaving the scene, check it out thoroughly first to make sure it is safe.
- Seek medical attention right away. Even if you do not feel like you are seriously injured right now, symptoms of a serious injury can crop up later. Seeking medical attention right away ensures that your injuries are documented. In some states, this medical care is paid for by the driver’s auto insurance or your own insurance, no matter who was at fault.
- Save everything in its existing condition including your clothing that was damaged and your bike. Do not get your bike repaired until you have spoken with a bike accident attorney to find out if it needs to be used as evidence.
- Save all of your receipts and medical bills.
- Do have your bike checked out if you plan to ride. There may be damage that you cannot see that can lead to another crash.
- Talk to an experienced bicycle accident attorney right away to preserve your legal rights and learn more about bicycle accident claims.
- Do not talk to the driver’s insurance company representatives, sign anything, or take any money from them without talking to your attorney first. You could be signing away your right to full compensation.
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