What Should You Do After a Bike Accident?
It is important to be safe when riding a bicycle as a collision with a car could prove catastrophic. However, even the safest, most defensive cyclists can get hit by a car.
Knowing what steps to take immediately after being hit by a car could make all the difference when it comes time to pursue a personal injury case. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact our Sacramento firm.
Have you been in a bicycle accident? Call (916) 778-3228 or contact us online to schedule a consultation to assist you with your personal injury case.
Here Are the Steps You Should Take To Help Protect Yourself After Being Injured by a Car:
Contact the Police
You and the individual driving the car are legally obligated to stay at the scene if anyone was injured or if any property damage occurred. Even if you feel you are not hurt, it is important to wait for the police to arrive.
You may not realize that you are injured until later when your adrenaline has gone down. Immediately after an accident, a powerful adrenaline rush can happen, which can increase your body's threshold for pain. This rush could last a few hours or a few days.
Exchange Information With the Driver
Ensure that you collect the following information from the motorist:
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Make and model of car
- Insurance policy number
Obtain the Contact Information of Any Witnesses
Write down the contact information of any witnesses that saw what happened. You can use their witness testimonial to help prove who was at fault in the accident later.
Write Down What Happened
Document all the details of the accident, including:
- When it happened
- Where it happened
- What the weather was like
- If there was any traffic that day
You may also want to take pictures of the accident scene as well. You could also draw a map or diagram that shows the position of the car and bicycle before and after the accident.
Make Sure the Police Take Your Report
Ensure that the police officer that shows up on the scene takes your version of the events that happened as well. Report any injuries, no matter how minor they may seem at first.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even minor injuries could turn into something serious, especially since you may not feel your injuries immediately following an accident. Consult with a doctor as soon as possible to get a written evaluation. Have the doctor write down a list of any of your injuries. Also, take photographs of your injuries and monitor them for several days afterward. You may not see bruising or even notice that you have a slight fracture until a day or two later, which is why it is crucial that you see a medical professional.
Keep Evidence
Keep any evidence, including any damaged articles of clothing, bicycle parts, and more. Keep your damaged bike and do not get it repaired right away. If you must, repair your bike and take photographs of the damage. You can also have a bike mechanic write down a list of the damages.
Avoid Negotiating With Insurance Companies
The driver’s insurance company could call you to offer you a settlement before you have all the information needed to support your claim. Avoid negotiating with an insurance company before speaking to a lawyer.
Seek Advice From a Lawyer
Talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer before speaking with an insurance company. A lawyer will be able to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and help you get a better settlement or represent you in a lawsuit if needed.
Contact our office online or call us via (916) 778-3228 to schedule a consultation to assist you with your personal injury case.