Bicyclists are especially at risk in bicycle accidents involving motor vehicles. Typically, they rely on helmets, if they have one at all, for protection during such incidents. The most frequent types of accidents occur when a car or SUV strikes a bicyclist, often resulting in the rider being thrown off their bike and landing on the pavement. Almost all bicycle accident collisions result in injuries, with serious injuries common.
According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, from 2013, nearly 1,000 bicyclists died, and about 120,000 were injured in bicycle accident crashes that occur on roads in the United States every year.
Many cyclists are unaware of the necessary steps to take after a bicycle accident involving a motor vehicle, nor do they fully understand their legal rights. Here are some key recommendations to consider.
Stay at the Scene and Call for Help
Bicyclists may lose consciousness, even momentarily, after a bicycle accident. It is crucial to remain at the scene and request medical help by calling 911 or asking someone else to do so. If you call for an ambulance, the police will likely investigate the accident and compile a report. Even if you do not wish to be transported, make sure to inform the first responders that you are injured.
Communicate with the Police
If possible, explain to the police how the bicycle accident occurred. If the at-fault driver flees, provide as much detail as you can about the vehicle involved. The investigating officer will interview witnesses and, if they are present, the driver, ultimately generating an accident report. This report is essential in determining liability for the bicycle accident.
Preserve Your Bicycle
Your bicycle can serve as crucial evidence. The insurance company may wish to inspect it, and it can be instrumental in substantiating your claim.
Report Your Injuries to Paramedics
Paramedics will assess your condition at the scene, documenting any pain you report as well as visible injuries such as cuts, bruises, or fractures. This initial examination constitutes your first medical record for your case against the driver. Following this, insist on being taken to the emergency room for further evaluation. Any pain you report and noted injuries will form another critical medical record connecting your injuries to the bicycle accident.
Seek Legal Help After Emergency Care
It’s advisable to reach out to an attorney as soon as you are released from emergency treatment or leave the scene if no emergency care was needed. Engaging legal representation early can help protect your interests.
Don’t Delay Medical Treatment
After being discharged from the emergency room, you may be referred to your personal doctor or a specialist. Your attorney may also provide recommendations regarding your medical care. It’s important to follow through on these recommendations without delay.
Be Aware of Insurance Company Scrutiny
The driver’s insurance company will have access to your medical records related to the accident and will examine them closely. Any gaps in treatment or missed appointments may raise concerns. To prevent this, ensure you continue all recommended treatments and therapies until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement and have been officially discharged.
Avoid Speaking with the Driver’s Insurer
If the insurance company representing the driver who hit you contacts you for a written or recorded statement, remember that you are not legally obligated to provide one. In fact, it’s advisable to refrain from making any statements as they could potentially harm your case. Any necessary statements should be made only in the presence of your attorney.
Contact a Bicycle Accident Attorney Right Away
Gabroy | Messer boasts a team of compassionate, aggressive, and highly skilled personal injury attorneys in Las Vegas. If you’ve been involved in an accident, reach out to our offices at 702-259-7777 for a complimentary consultation and case evaluation as soon as possible.