Guidelines for Bicyclists Involved in Car Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen in the blink of an eye! Do your part to keep safe by adhering to the law and following standard bike safety precautions. Unfortunately, you can still get into accidents due to another negligent party. The majority of bicycle accidents do not involve cars. However, if you are an occasional cyclist, you should know how to approach this situation in case it ever occurs.
Wait for the Police to Arrive
Once the police arrive, you can start giving them your recollections of the collision while an officer writes a police report. You want to talk with an officer who can help translate the sequences of events onto a paper clearly and accurately. Do not try to work things out for yourself and the driver that struck you because they may just tell you what you want to hear. Weeks later, you may be caught off guard to find out the negligent party later decides to deny liability. This can all be avoided if an official authority is there to record both sides of the story.
Have Your Story Straight
You might have to go out of your way to get an officer to talk with you – it will be worth it. Ensure your version of the incident is reported accurately, concisely, and fairly. Occasionally, an officer might hear you out but not take down a written copy of your story. Do not let them leave the scene without a written statement!
Do Not Admit Fault to Anyone
When you are speaking with anyone who is somehow linked to the accident – the other party, eyewitnesses, police officers – do not make any statements that could later be perceived as self-incriminating. Even a simple “I’m sorry” could be used against you later, leading to an unfavorable outcome. Do not claim liability!
Collect Information from Drivers and Witnesses
Try to obtain all the essential information about the driver that hit you. This includes their full name, a clear picture of their driver’s license and license plate, phone number, insurance information, and occupation, if applicable. Additionally, you may want to consider getting basic contact information from any eyewitnesses that can support your story. Witnesses can be the evidence that wins your case and help pay for unexpected expenses, including medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, a new bike, and more.
Obtain a Medical Report
Get medical attention for any of your wounds, even if they seem harmless. In addition, do not turn down assistance from paramedics who arrive on site. Medical reports add an extra layer of credibility to your claim. Certified medical documents will contain relevant information, such as the extent of your injuries and how long it may take to fully recover.
More by The Edward A Smith Law Offices:
- Poor Sidewalk Maintenance Can Cause Bicycle Accidents
- How California Bicyclists Can Stay Safe
- Bicycle Helmets Prevent Head Injury
Brentwood Personal Injury Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a Brentwood Personal Injury Attorney. If someone you know and care for has been hurt in a bicycle accident, don’t let them deal with the stressful aftermath of the situation alone. You can reach me by calling (925)-428-5220 or (800)-404-5400 for friendly advice that is free of charge. I also have a contact form that you can fill out online at autoaccident.com.
Since 1982, I have gained a wide array of experience in personal injury and wrongful death claims.
My reviews as an injury lawyer can be found on Yelp, Avvo, and Google.
To know more about the outcomes I have obtained for my clients, click here.
I am a part of the California chapter of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
Photo Attribution: Author Jack Alexander – Unsplash
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