Riding a bicycle is a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, but it also comes with risks—especially when we share the road with cars, trucks, and other vehicles. If we’re involved in a bicycle accident, the steps we take immediately afterward, including consulting our Raleigh, NC bicycle accident lawyer, can make a huge difference in protecting our legal rights and ensuring we receive the compensation we deserve. Here’s what we need to do.
1. Get To Safety And Assess Injuries
Our first priority after an accident is making sure we’re safe. If possible, we should move to the side of the road to avoid further danger. However, if we’re seriously injured, we should try to stay still and wait for medical help. We should also check on others involved in the accident and call 911 if emergency assistance is needed.
2. Call 911 And Report The Accident
Even if the accident seems minor, calling the police is essential. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which will be crucial for any legal claims we may file later. When the officers arrive, we should give them an honest and detailed account of what happened, but we should avoid admitting fault or speculating about what caused the crash.
3. Gather Evidence At The Scene
If we’re physically able, collecting evidence at the scene can strengthen our case. Here’s what we should do:
- Take photos and videos of our injuries, bicycle damage, the accident scene, and any involved vehicles.
- Get driver and witness information, including names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details.
- Note important details, such as road conditions, traffic signals, and any hazards that may have contributed to the crash.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if we feel fine, we should see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. A medical evaluation provides documentation of our injuries, which will be important for any insurance or legal claims.
5. Preserve Evidence
To protect our case, we should keep all accident-related evidence, including:
- Our damaged bicycle and helmet (without repairing or altering them)
- Medical records and receipts
- Any correspondence with insurance companies
- A journal detailing our pain, symptoms, and recovery progress
6. Avoid Speaking To Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice
After the accident, we may receive calls from the driver’s insurance company asking for a statement. We should be cautious—insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and may try to twist our words against us. It’s best to consult with a bicycle accident lawyer before providing any statements or accepting a settlement.
7. Contact A Bicycle Accident Lawyer
An experienced bicycle accident lawyer can guide us through the legal process, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and help us recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If necessary, they can also file a lawsuit to ensure we get the justice we deserve.
After a bicycle accident, taking the right steps can protect our legal rights and improve our chances of receiving fair compensation. From seeking medical care to consulting a lawyer, each action we take helps us move forward and secure the justice we deserve. At Burton Law Firm, we are here to help.