What to Do If You Are Hit by a Car While Riding a Bicycle
Being hit by a car while cycling can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. Whether injuries are minor or severe, taking the right steps immediately following the accident can protect your health, legal rights, and financial interests. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the situation effectively.
Ensure Your Safety and Check for Injuries
After the collision, prioritize your safety. If possible, move out of traffic to a safer location. However, avoid moving if you suspect severe injuries, as this could worsen your condition. Conduct a quick self-assessment for injuries, and remember that some injuries, such as concussions or internal damage, may not be immediately apparent. If you are unable to move, ask a passerby to call for emergency medical assistance.
Call Emergency Services
Regardless of the severity of the accident, contact 911 to report the incident. Police and medical personnel should be dispatched to the scene. Having an official police report is crucial for documenting the accident, and medical evaluation is essential to identify and treat injuries, even if they seem minor at first.
Provide a clear and accurate account of the incident to the responding officers. Be honest but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident.
Exchange Information with the Driver
Obtain the driver’s information, including:
• Name and contact details
• Driver’s license number
• Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
• Insurance company and policy number
• Avoid discussing fault or liability with the driver, as this may complicate legal proceedings later.
Gather Evidence
Document the scene as thoroughly as possible. Use your phone or another device to take photos or videos of:
• The accident scene
• Damage to your bicycle and the vehicle
• Road conditions and traffic signs
• Your injuries
If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and statements about what they saw. Their testimony could be valuable in supporting your case.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, the bicycle accident attorneys in Las Vegas encourage you to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may have delayed symptoms, and a medical professional can diagnose conditions you may not notice right away. Additionally, medical records serve as important evidence if you decide to pursue a legal claim.
File a Police Report
Ensure that a police report is filed, as this document is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal actions. Verify the details in the report and request a copy for your records. If you notice any inaccuracies, work with the authorities to correct them as soon as possible.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident, even if the driver’s insurance is expected to cover damages. Provide them with all relevant information, including the police report and evidence you’ve gathered. Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters and avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
Document Your Recovery and Expenses
Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, rehabilitation, and any time missed from work. Save receipts for all expenses related to the accident, including:
• Medical bills
• Bicycle repairs or replacement
• Transportation costs
• Lost wages
These records will be essential if you seek compensation for damages.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
If the accident resulted in significant injuries or damages, consulting a personal injury attorney can help protect your rights. An attorney specializing in bicycle accidents can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. Most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.
Take Care of Your Emotional Well-Being
Being hit by a car can have lasting emotional effects. Anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may develop in the aftermath. Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional to help you cope with the emotional challenges of the accident.
Advocate for Safer Roads
If your accident was caused by unsafe road conditions or inadequate cycling infrastructure, consider advocating for improvements in your community. Reporting hazardous areas or joining local cycling advocacy groups can help prevent similar accidents in the future.
Taking these steps after a bicycle accident can help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially. By staying calm, gathering evidence, and seeking professional support, you can navigate the aftermath effectively and focus on healing.
