Posted in Bicycle Accident on March 20, 2024
If you or a loved one sustain bicycle accident injuries in an accident due to the reckless or negligent actions of another driver or entity, you could recover compensation for your losses. There are various steps you can take soon after the incident occurs to help preserve the integrity of your accident claim.
1. Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention
The first priority after a bicycle accident is checking yourself for injuries such as any head injuries or spinal cord injuries. Bicycle accidents are much more likely to result in catastrophic harm to the cyclist than those inside vehicles. All bicycle accident victims should go to the emergency room or their doctor right away.
Even if injuries are not immediately noticeable, there could be underlying injuries that have yet to show symptoms. Prompt medical care can help figure out the full extent of the damage while also establishing a strong link between the incident and any injuries that arise. Insurance carriers will look for this when they begin processing the claim.
2. Call the Police and File an Accident Report
Nearly every vehicle accident that occurs in California should be reported to law enforcement officials, including bicycle and car accidents. As a bicyclist, it will benefit you to have the accident report available when the insurance carriers ask for it. The police can conduct an initial investigation into the incident and help gather information from others involved.
3. Take Photos of the Accident Scene and Injuries
Bicyclists can try and document the scene of the incident if they are able to do so. Documenting the scene can be done using a phone or another type of recording device. Individuals can take photographs of injuries, property damage, skid marks or debris, and any traffic and weather conditions that could have affected the area. Make note of any video surveillance cameras on nearby buildings or even inside of vehicles involved.
4. Collect Contact Information from Witnesses
If there were any eyewitnesses to the bicycle accident, obtain their names and contact information at the scene of the incident. Eyewitness statements could be incredibly beneficial later, particularly if there are any disputes over a fault for the incident.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
You should notify your auto insurance carrier if you have insurance. Even though another driver’s insurance carrier may ultimately be responsible for paying compensation for your losses, your insurance carrier can help facilitate communication between the two parties. However, we strongly encourage you to speak to a bicycle accident lawyer so they can proceed forward with insurance carrier communications.
6. Keep All Medical Records and Receipts
Bicycle accident victims in California should keep all medical records related to the injuries they sustain. Additionally, any additional out-of-pocket expenses associated with the incident should be thoroughly documented by keeping receipts, bills, invoices, or estimates.
7. Consult With a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you have been harmed by the negligence of another driver or entity while riding your bicycle, we encourage you to reach out to an attorney as soon as possible. A bicycle accident lawyer in Long Beach Can help conduct a complete investigation into the incident. Importantly, your lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance carriers so you can focus on recovering from your injuries and getting back on your feet.