What to do After a Bicycle Accident

After a bicycle accident, you may be confused, scared, and not know what to do. When a bicyclist gets hit by a car or truck, it is crucial to know what to do while still at the scene of the accident. What you do immediately after the bike accident can have a dramatic impact on how much you are able to recover for your injuries and property damage to your bike. It may also affect your lawsuits outcome. Here is what to do after a bicycle accident.

Call the Police and Wait for Help to Arrive

Waiting for the police to arrive at the scene of the accident is vital to your case even if you think you are not injured. A police officer can write a police report that will help your lawsuit. Sometimes the bicyclist may not even realize they are injured until several hours after the accident. Also, what seems like a minor injury can turn into something much more serious and even cause permanent damage or scaring. If you leave the accident, the at-fault driver may never be identified.

Never negotiate with the negligent driver. Instead, just wait for the police to handle it. Many drivers will initially apologize for the accident and accept blame but then later deny their negligence when faced with a lawsuit. The police will be able to document everything and gather statements needed for your case.

Gather Witness and Driver Contact Information

After an accident, it is important to gather the contact information from all other drivers involved in the accident as well as the contact information of any witnesses. Information such as his or her name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, vehicle license number, and insurance information is important to your case. Never assume the police will obtain this information, they might not. If you are injured and unable to obtain this information, ask a bystander to do it for you.

State Clearly What Happened to the Police

Be sure to give the police a clear statement as to what happened. Sometimes, the police will ask the driver what happened but not the bicyclist. Do everything you can to get your side of the story clearly stated in the police report. Report all your injuries and every detail even if it seems minor. Even minor injuries can sometimes become more serious.

Even if the police refuse to include your statement in the accident report, you can later have the report amended.

Document What Happened and Your Injuries

As soon as you can, take a moment to write down exactly what happened and what injuries you inquired from the accident. If you are not able to write it down, make mental notes about the accident. Include things such as what happened, how it happened, where the accident occurred, when it occurred, the condition of the road, the traffic, and weather conditions.

For your injuries, be sure to seek medical attention right away. The fact that you sought medical attention serves as proof of your injuries. Medical records will serve as documentation of your injuries. Take photos of your injuries as soon as possible after the accident. These can also greatly help your case.

Preserve Property Damage Evidence

Do not attempt to fix your bicycle after an accident. By leaving it in the same state as after the accident, it will serve as evidence for your case. It is also a good idea not to wash your clothing or bike. Don’t send your bike, help, clothing or any other equipment to anyone other than your attorney. Take photos of all damaged equipment.

Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney to Handle Your Case

Consult with a bicycle accident attorney as soon as you can after the accident. An experienced personal injury attorney will know how to handle your case and how to get you the most compensation for your pain and suffering. Contact the experienced personal injury attorneys of Parke Gordon Law Firm to handle your case. Our law firm will work hard to advise you how to proceed, negotiate with insurance companies and represent you in a lawsuit.

Don’t communicate with the insurance company before speaking with an attorney. Your attorney will handle everything. Speaking with the insurance company may harm your case.

Call Parke Gordon Law Firm now for a free consultation. This is your opportunity to discuss your bicycle accident with an experienced, trusted and aggressive personal injury attorney. Call (208) 322-7274 now.