Accidents involving bicyclists almost always involve serious bodily injuries. If you were riding your bike, and collided with an automobile, here is what you should know:
First and foremost, if you think you are even slightly injured, call 911. Sometimes we cannot feel everything right away, and the slightest pain can actually be more of a problem but masked by shock and adrenaline. Do not defer calling for help as well because you feel as though you need to preserve evidence at the scene of the accident. The first responders will do their best to document how the accident happened and will take pictures and/or videos if need be; all of which are discoverable by your attorney later.
If you are, however, physically able to collect your own evidence, do so! Evidence collected at the scene is your best friend in personal injury cases. There is no such thing as too many pictures. Collect as much as you can and also exchange information with any other driver present. Speak to all witnesses and make sure you write down their names, phone numbers, and addresses as well.
Importantly after all of this, call an experienced accident attorney as soon as possible to know your rights and to learn how to best move forward with any injury claim you need to make. For example, just because you were riding a bicycle when you were hit by a car, does not mean you are not entitled to your own auto insurance policy benefits. Even though you were not behind the wheel of your insured vehicle when you were injured, they may still apply. In other words, your own auto insurance policy can benefit you in a bicycle to car accident situation. Your attorney can help ensure you are filing with all of the insurance available on your behalf to maximize your compensation.
Automobile drivers owe a duty to bicyclists, just like they owe a duty to anybody else on the road. If you were riding your bike and were struck by a motor vehicle to no fault of your own, do not settle for less than what you are entitled to with the insurance companies. Instead tell them, “you’re going to Hale” and “GO TO HALE” right away. You can reach our office day or night at 941-735-4529. All of our legal services come at no cost to you unless we get you paid.