Stockton Bicycle Accident Tips
Stockton Bicycle Accident Tips
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton bicycle accident lawyer. When a vehicle and a bicycle crash, the sheer weight and volume of the car or truck can have deadly consequences for the cyclist. Even with a helmet and added protection, the cyclist might not stand a chance of survival and will likely suffer devastating injuries. In these cases, victims and their families need the help of an experienced bicycle accident lawyer who can seek justice for them.
If you are riding a bicycle and are involved in an injury-accident, you can take certain steps to protect yourself legally. If you decide to pursue a civil case against the responsible parties, the following Stockton bicycle accident tips might help you recover the maximum amount of compensation possible.
- Call 911 and stay at the scene – You need to wait until the authorities arrive at the scene and file a police report. The police report will thoroughly document the entire incident, proving that you were in an accident. Your injuries might not show up for hours or even days. If so, you will need a record of what happened. If you identify the driver and stay at the scene, you will have legal proof of the incident.
- Wait to talk to the driver until the police arrive – They might even give the motorist a ticket, which can further support your case, especially when you deal with the insurance company.
- Give police a statement to include in their report – You need to present your side of events. Tell police about any injuries, no matter how small. The injuries could worsen with time. If the police will not accept a statement from you, ask to have it included later.
- Obtain contact information from the other driver – You will need the following basic information: name, phone number, insurance information, address and driver’s license number. If there are any witnesses at the scene, ask for their names and phone numbers as well. If you are too injured to ask for this information, ask another person to help you.
- Document or write down your version of the incident – If you have a smart phone, you can record the relevant information: accident location, what happened, how it happened, time and date and conditions.
- Photograph your injuries – You will want to describe your injuries, but a photograph will provide the most information. Keep a journal of your symptoms and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Preserve evidence from the accident scene – Take photos of damages to your bike, clothing, helmet and any other equipment. Don’t take your bike or other items to be repaired without talking to a lawyer.
- Wait to speak with the insurance company.
Bicycle Injury Lawyer Serving Stockton
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton Bicycle Injury Attorney. If you or a member of your family has been seriously injured, please call me at (916) 921-6400 for free, friendly advice. Or, dial me toll free at (800) 404-5400. You may also email me via this contact link.
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