Car Accident Lawyer
Being hit by a car while riding your bike can be a disorienting experience to say the least. While assessing the damage to you and your bike, the last thing you want to be doing is racking your brain for a step-by-step playbook on how to proceed.
As an experienced car accident lawyer from Hall-Justice Law Firm explains, there are several steps you can take if you have been struck by a car while riding your bike.
1. Call 911
When you call for emergency services, ask for both police officers and emergency medical technicians (EMTs), even if you don’t have injuries that are obvious to you at the time. Remain silent about the accident until an officer arrives; anything you say, particularly about who may be at fault for the accident, can be used against you by the driver’s insurance company. Laws regarding accident reports vary by state. If one is prepared and reported, ensure that it is accurate with the officer on the scene.
Also while on the scene, it is important to gather witnesses’ contact information. If you are unable to due to injuries, ask someone else who is there to do this for you. Ensure that the police have the information of the driver before the driver leaves. Also, take photos of your bike, the car’s license plate and any other details that will be pertinent to you later acquiring compensation for the accident.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Whether or not you have injuries that are obvious to you immediately after impact, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is in your best interest. Symptoms of major injuries, like internal damage or injury to your brain, may remain dormant for hours or days. Plus, a record of your injuries will be created as soon as you visit a doctor. This is a crucial component in later receiving compensation for any care you received from healthcare professionals to treat injuries from the accident.
3. Obtain the Accident Report
If you are interested in filing a claim with the insurance company of the driver, you will need a copy of the accident report. Do not speak with anyone from the insurance company until you have already contacted an attorney. His or her guidance will help you navigate this process, as insurance companies often try to mitigate claims against those they represent.
If you or a loved one are avid bike riders, check up on your state’s laws about how to proceed if you are struck by a vehicle. Becoming familiar with the laws that pertain to you will only help you in the long run. If you have any questions, contact a local attorney today.