Biking accidents can happen at any time, and when they do, it is important for cyclists to make sure they take the right steps to get the compensation they need to cover medical costs, bike repairs, and more. Some of the things they’ll want to do right away after the accident, if possible, include the following.
Wait for the Police to Arrive
After being injured on your bicycle, it’s important to wait for the police to arrive before leaving the scene. Even if the bicyclist doesn’t feel like they need an ambulance, it is important to stay so there is a record of what happened and how. The police officers will also help with gathering the driver’s information, which is needed to file a claim. It is crucial, however, to avoid saying anything that could be considered an admission of guilt when talking to the police.
Avoid Negotiating at the Scene
The other driver might try to offer money to prevent the cyclist from calling the police or filing a claim with the insurance company. It is never a good idea to accept a settlement, as it is likely not sufficient to cover all medical costs and other expenses. Instead, politely decline and wait to speak with a lawyer before making any decisions.
Get the Driver’s Information
The police report should include the driver’s information as well as witness contact information, but it might not be easy to read or clear. It is a good idea to go ahead and write down the information and save it, as this can help if it’s needed before the report is ready or if the repair isn’t readable. If the driver is trying to leave the scene of the accident, be sure to get their license plate number if possible to make it easier to find the driver.
Seek Medical Attention
Cyclists should seek medical attention right away after speaking with the police. There are a number of common bike injuries that can be treated at home, but with an accident involving another vehicle, it is better to go to a hospital. This creates a record of the injuries and helps to determine the amount of money needed to cover medical expenses.
Make Sure Evidence is Preserved
The cyclist will want to make sure all evidence from the accident is preserved in case it’s needed to prove fault. If the bike has to be repaired right away, it’s a good idea to take photos of all damage to the bike so that can be used in court to show how it was damaged. Use tips for photographing bicycles to get clear pictures that show the damage easily. Keep all receipts for repairs, medical bills, and more.
Talk to a Lawyer for Help
Before talking to insurance companies or accepting any settlement offer, it’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer for help. They can help the cyclist ensure they get the compensation needed to cover all expenses related to the accident and will handle the insurance companies while the cyclist recovers.
Cyclists who are injured in a bike accident will want to make sure they take the right steps to prevent potential issues and make sure they can get the compensation they need to financially recover from the accident. Talk to a lawyer about your accident today to learn how they can help.
