Biking is an ideal way to keep fit, but riding on the roads can be risky, especially where bikers share roads with vehicles. Recent reports reveal bicycle crashes rose a staggering 75% in 2021, with Richmond, Virginia recording the second-highest number of crashes at 34.
Crashes involving bicycles and cars can cause catastrophic injuries that impact the quality of your life for years to come. What you do immediately after the crash can make a difference in how much you recover from your injuries and other damages.
The experienced bicycle accident attorneys from Renfro & Renfro, PLLC have put together easy-to-follow steps to take after the crash to protect your rights and ability to get fair compensation for your injuries. We will help investigate the accident and negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company on your behalf. You won’t be left wondering what to do if you’re in a bicycle accident with a car.
Five Steps to Take if You’re in a Bicycle Accident with a Car
The following are crucial steps to take after a bicycle accident with a car:
1. Call 911 and Ask for the Police
The first thing you do after being hit by a car is to call 911 and ask for the police. Once law enforcement officers arrive at the crash scene, they will investigate the accident and file a police report. Make sure you give the officers your version of what happened and provide your name and address. Insurance companies are typically more receptive to the information within a police report, and obtaining a copy may help you to negotiate a fair settlement.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Some cyclists may not realize they have been severely injured until several hours or days after the crash. What might seem like a minor injury can sometimes develop into life-threatening health problems. It is best to see a doctor even if you feel no pain after the crash. Besides, the medical records will help prove the extent of your injuries should you pursue a claim.
3. Document the Accident and Your Injuries
If you can, make notes about the crash, including what happened, how it happened, where the crash occurred, and the weather conditions. You should also take pictures and photos of the scene with your phone. Ensure your photos show the vehicle’s location and the bike’s condition. Have photos of your injuries taken, and start a journal of your physical symptoms. Make entries of your recovery progress each day.
4. Get the Contact Information of the Driver and the Witnesses
It is crucial to obtain details of the at-fault driver and any witnesses. Get the driver’s full name, address, phone number, license number, and insurance information. Similarly, try to get the names and contact information of everyone who witnessed the crash. If you are injured and can’t record the details of witnesses and the at-fault driver, ask someone to do it for you.
5. Call an Attorney
Cycling accidents involve complex legal issues. Hiring a personal injury attorney with experience in bike accident cases is crucial. A legal professional can guide you on how to proceed with your case. They will also negotiate with the insurer to ensure you get a fair settlement. If need be, the attorney will file a lawsuit, collect evidence and fight for your rights.
Common Mistakes Avoid After a Cycling Accident
If you are involved in a cycling accident with a car, try not to make the following mistakes:
Don’t Give a Statement to the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company
The at-fault driver’s insurer may call you soon after the crash requesting your statement. This has nothing to do with your claim or compensation. The insurer may be attempting to trick you into saying something that they will use to reduce your claim or deny it in its entirety. If they contact you, take down their information and ask them to call your attorney.
Don’t Negotiate with the Driver
The at-fault driver may initially apologize and accept blame for the crash only to later deny culpability or even their presence at the crash scene. Don’t negotiate with the driver or discuss the details of the crash.
Don’t Fix Your Bike
One mistake that cyclists make after an accident is to fix the bike in a bid to resume their hobby. However, anything that was with you on the day of the crash should be preserved as evidence. This includes the damaged bike, your clothes, your riding gear, and any other equipment. Keeping these things in the exact condition they were right after the crash can help show the judge and jury the severity of the crash.
Renfro & Renfro, PLLC Personal Injury Lawyers in Richmond Can Help
Biking accident lawsuits involving cars are complex to litigate. Taking the steps discussed above can help protect your rights, and any injury claim you intend to pursue. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bike accident, experienced bicycle accident lawyers from Renfro & Renfro, PLLC can help.
Our attorneys have been representing victims of bike accidents and have experience negotiating or trying personal injury cases. We understand the process can be complex and intimidating, so call us today at (804) 601-4433 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let our team guide you through your claim and help you receive your deserved compensation.
