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Protect Your Rights After a Bicycle Accident

Posted in Accident & Injury, Automobile, Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident, Truck Accident on July 24, 2024

Bicycle accident

While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) promotes biking as an alternative to driving, the risks involved in bike accidents remain high. According to the NHTSA, the number of bicycle-related fatalities is increasing.

Tragically, 2022 was the deadliest year on record for cyclists. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that more bicyclists were killed by motor vehicles in 2022 than in any previous year recorded by the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS).

Source: NHTSA

According to NHTSA FARS data, 1,105 cyclists were killed by motor vehicles on public roads in 2022. Since 1975, FARS has been keeping track of this information. The most fatalities recorded in a single year was 1,003, which happened in the first year of FARS’ operation.

What To Do After a Bike Accident

Bicycle accidents can be stressful, and the resulting injuries may make it difficult to remain calm and think clearly. Knowing what steps to take before a bicycle accident can help you correctly handle the situation and ensure fair compensation for your injuries and damaged property. Here are some tips to help you know what to do after a bike accident:

Immediately After the Accident:

Assess Yourself:

  • Take a moment to relax, take deep breaths, and make sure you’re not hurt. Don’t rush to get up, especially if you feel unsteady.
  • When you do get up, move slowly and see if anything hurts while you walk around and move your arms. If you feel pain, ask for help.
  • If you start to feel sick or lightheaded, or if you see blood, wait for someone to help you. Also, check your helmet for any damage. If it looks cracked or bent, get help right away.

Check Your Bike:

  • Before you start riding your bike, make sure to check for any damage. Pay attention to the wheels, tires, brakes, and frame.
  • Ensure that the brake levers and shifters are working properly, the chain is not broken, and the seat is secure.
  • Remember to look closely for any small cracks in the frame, as they can cause more serious problems if not taken care of. It’s important to do a thorough inspection before you start riding.

Prepare a Basic Bike Kit:

  • Don’t forget to bring a multi-tool, a spare bike tire, a small air pump for your bike, and a chain link in case your bike chain breaks.
  • It’s also a good idea to have basic first aid supplies like bandages and wraps, especially if you’re going on a long or remote bike ride.

At the Scene of a Bicycle Accident:

It’s best to collect evidence right after an accident as insurance companies need good evidence to figure out what happened. Follow these steps:

Remain Calm:

  • Stay composed and assess the situation.

Check for Injuries:

  • Remember to thoroughly check yourself for injuries, even if they don’t seem obvious right away.

Call the Police:

  • Report the accident to the authorities for an official record.

Gather Information:

  • Collect insurance information, names, addresses, phone numbers, car details, license plate numbers, and witness information.
  • Note the accident details and take photos of the bicycle damage, car damage, and the accident layout.

Post-Accident Steps:

Seek Medical Attention:

  • Visit a doctor even if you feel fine, as some injuries may surface later.

Document the Accident:

  • Record the accident details thoroughly.

Obtain the Police Report:

  • Pick up a copy of the official police report.

Inspect and Repair Your Bicycle:

  • Have a professional check and repair your bike.

Track Expenses:

  • Keep a record of all accident-related expenses.

Notify Your Insurance Company:

  • Report the accident to your insurance company.

Consult a Lawyer:

  • Seek legal advice to understand your rights and options.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents are increasing, making awareness of common causes crucial. The most frequent causes include:

  • Bicyclists riding on the wrong side of the road.
  • Drivers making unsafe left or right turns.
  • Bicyclists riding from driveways or sidewalks into traffic.
  • Drivers opening doors as bicycles pass.
  • Bicyclists weaving, leaving the edge of the road or bike lane.
  • Bicyclists making unsafe left turns.
  • Bicycles without headlights or reflectors.

Call Us Today for A Free Consultation

Our bike accident lawyers are not afraid to fight for our clients, and our trial skills have earned us recognition from several national organizations. Our personal injury lawyers actively fight for legislation to protect cyclists.

Call us at 1-800-ELK-OHIO (1-800-355-6446) to schedule your free consultation to learn about your rights and options after a bicycle accident. You may be eligible for payment of your medical bills, property damages, lost wages, pain, and suffering. Request your free consultation today.