Protecting Your Rights After A Bicycle Accident
Being hit while riding a bicycle is a jarring and scary experience. After a biking accident, you may be confused about what to do, who to talk to, and how to pay medical bills. In 2021, there were 1230 fatal biking accidents and 299,944 preventable nonfatal injuries. This type of accident is far too common and people need to be educated on what to do after a biking accident to protect their rights.
Steps To Take After A Bicycle Accident
1.Move To A Safe Area:
After your bicycle accident, move to a safe area where you are out of danger. If the accident happened on a busy road you want to clear the area and get to a sidewalk as soon as you can. However, if you are in a safe place, take your time getting up. You want to try and evaluate your injuries before moving to avoid making things worse.
2. Call 9-1-1:
You should immediately call the police after your accident. The police will be able to document the scene and collect all necessary information which can help your case later on if you decide to involve an attorney. Make sure to tell them the exact details of what happened from your perspective.
3. Collect The Drivers Information:
Get all important information from the driver. This includes their phone number, a picture of their insurance, check their driver’s license, and take a photo of their license plate.
4. Gather Witness Information:
Get written statements from witnesses at the scene. Also, make sure to get their names. The more information you gather, the better. Never rely on the police or anyone else to collect the information that could protect you later on.
5. Get A Copy Of The Police Report:
Get the information of the police officers at the scene. The information you will need is their name, badge number, and ask them to submit an incident or traffic report. If for some reason no police report is created, you will need to go to the police department and file a counter report.
6. Document Everything:
Now that you have collected all the information you need, document everything else with photos and preserve key evidence. Keep your bicycle to use as evidence as well as your clothes.
7. Get A Medical Exam:
Get examined by a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. The doctor will document any injuries you have, including internal injuries that may not be visible. Some common injuries from a bicycle accident can be internal bleeding, road rash, traumatic brain injuries, and broken bones.
8. Consult A Bike Accident Attorney:
If you have medical costs, permanent disability, or have to take time off of work to heal from your injuries, you may want to hire an Oklahoma City bicycle accident lawyer.
Factors That Will Affect The Outcome Of Your Bicycle Accident Claim
There are a number of factors that will affect the outcome of your bicycle accident claim. The extent of your injuries, the information collected at the scene, the behavior of the driver, damages to property, and the driver’s insurance. It is crucial that you hire a competent bike accident attorney who can fight for your rights and advise you on what steps to take depending on your specific situation.