How to Protect Your Bike and Personal Injury Claims After an Accident
Riding a bike offers a sense of freedom and fitness, but it also exposes you to potential accidents. Knowing how to protect your rights and handle personal injury claims after a bicycle accident is crucial to ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. Whether it’s minor damage to your bike or severe personal injuries, following the right steps can make a huge difference in the outcome of your claim. Here’s a guide on what to do after a bicycle accident.
1. Prioritize Your Safety and Health
After a bike accident, your first priority should be your health. Move to a safe area, away from traffic, and assess your injuries. If you’re hurt, call 911 immediately. Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial not only for your recovery but also for documenting your injuries, which will play a significant role in your personal injury claim.
2. Collect Evidence at the Scene
Evidence is key to protecting your personal injury claim. While still at the scene, gather as much information as possible. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, damage to your bike, and the surroundings. Also, note down any road conditions or traffic signals that may have contributed to the accident. Gather contact information from witnesses and exchange details with the driver, such as license plate number and insurance information.
3. Report the Accident to the Authorities
Always report your bicycle accident to the police, especially if the accident involves a motor vehicle. An official police report provides an essential third-party account of the incident and is crucial for your claim. Make sure to get a copy of the police report as it can serve as solid evidence when negotiating with insurance companies.
4. Don’t Admit Fault
When speaking with the other party or the authorities, avoid admitting fault. Even if you think you might have contributed to the accident, let the investigation determine the cause. Sometimes, factors you weren’t aware of, like driver negligence or poor road conditions, may have caused the accident.
5. Document Your Medical Treatment
Keeping a detailed record of your medical treatment is vital for calculating the compensation you deserve. Keep copies of all medical bills, doctor’s notes, treatment plans, and medications. If you need ongoing care, such as physical therapy or surgeries, ensure that those records are well-documented.
6. Preserve Evidence of Bike Damage
In addition to your personal injuries, bike damage plays a role in your compensation. Don’t rush to repair your bike before documenting its damage. Take detailed photos, and if possible, get a repair estimate from a professional. This helps in quantifying the value of the damage in your claim.
7. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly improve your chances of securing a fair settlement. An attorney will handle negotiations with insurance companies, collect evidence, and ensure that you’re compensated for all damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and bike repairs.
8. Understand Your Compensation Options
When filing a personal injury claim, you may be entitled to several types of compensation:
- Medical Expenses: Covers current and future medical bills.
- Property Damage: Covers the cost of repairing or replacing your bike.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensates for physical and emotional pain caused by the accident.
9. Negotiate with the Insurance Company
Dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. Insurance adjusters will often try to settle your claim for the least amount possible. An attorney will help ensure you’re not shortchanged, fighting for full compensation for your injuries and bike damage.
10. Know When to Settle
While it may be tempting to accept the first settlement offer, it’s essential to evaluate the long-term impact of your injuries. If the settlement doesn’t cover ongoing medical care or future expenses, don’t be afraid to negotiate for a better offer or take your case to court if necessary.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bike accident, McGilberry & Shirer LLP is here to help. With over 60 years of experience, our expert attorneys have successfully represented more than 10,000 personal injury victims. We are committed to ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 972-764-8675 for a free consultation. We are the best personal injury attorneys serving Dallas and Fort Worth.
