Bicycle Accident Attorneys

Despite bicycle trips only making up 1% of all US trips in the US, over 130,000 people are seriously injured in bicycle accidents every year. While there are certain precautions you can take, bicycle accidents remain a risk for all cyclists. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, here are the steps to take to ensure your safety.  

1. Remain Calm

After a bicycle accident, it is natural to feel various emotions, ranging from shock and fear to guilt and anger. However, it is vital to remain calm after an accident so you can deal with it in the best way. You want to act rationally to the situation, not reactively, which could cause more problems.

Take a few deep breaths to re-center, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Conscious breathing has been found to reduce stress and help people think clearly. Your heart rate will begin to slow down, so you can focus on the present moment and the next steps.

2. Move to a Safe Place

Everyone who cycles is at risk of a bicycle accident. Bicycle accident statistics remain high every year, with many different causes. Common causes include cars driving too close to bike lanes or turning without looking for cyclists. A bicycle accident can also occur due to poor road maintenance or other objects obstructing the road.

After a bicycle accident occurs, it is crucial to get off the road and to a safe space, away from oncoming traffic. Otherwise, there is a risk of further accidents occurring. If you are physically able, move off to the side. If you are unable, call for help. 

3. Report the Accident 

Once you are in a safe space, you need to call the police to report the bicycle accident. Bicycle accident laws require you to wait for the police if damage or injuries were sustained. You are exempt from this if you need immediate medical attention and need to be rushed to the hospital.

While waiting for the police, avoid conversation with the motorist or anyone else involved in the bicycle accident. Emotions can run high after accidents, and it is best to seek legal support before negotiating or discussing the accident. The police will create a police report, which will be evidence for any claims you decide to pursue. 

4. Get Driver Details

If a vehicle or someone else was involved, you need to obtain their insurance and contact information. This is very important, and your bike accident case will rely heavily on this step. Start by taking note of their vehicle’s license number. You should also exchange other information with the driver, including:

• Name
• Phone number 
• Insurance policy number
• Address
• Make and model of vehicle 

If there were any witnesses of the bicycle accident, then get their details. They can provide essential evidence for your claim. California is an at-fault state, meaning if a driver is responsible for an accident, they are liable for covering costs or injuries and damage sustained during the accident. The at-fault driver’s insurance will be the one to cover damages, so ensure you have the correct information.

5. Gather and Protect Evidence

The more evidence you have, the stronger the case will be. This is because your bicycle accident lawyer will have more to work with. Document damages to your bike by taking pictures and making notes of damages. Check all parts of your bike for damage, including:

• Wheels
• Brakes
• Peddles 
• Tires 
• Gears
• Frame 

Also, make a note of the damage to your bike helmet and other gear. Do not try to fix your bike or wash damaged clothing because it may serve as evidence in your accident claim. 

You can also note any injuries, including those you notice at the accident site and when you get medical attention. Take photos of injuries and when you feel ready and make some notes about the accident when the memory is fresh in your mind. 

Necessary evidence to note includes where the accident took place, the traffic conditions, and the time of the accident. You can also draw a map or diagram of the incident. Keep all forms of evidence to discuss with bicycle accident attorneys.

6. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel your injuries are minor or you do not think you have any injuries, it is essential to seek medical attention. Injuries can become evidence hours or even days after an accident, so get a medical evaluation to be sure. If you do not seek medical attention within 24 hours, it could impact your personal injury claim.

If you are injured, keep medical records and note how injuries are impacting your day-to-day functioning. If you are unsure if you are injured, say you are uncertain if the other party asks you. Do not avoid medical evaluation, as it could impact your personal injury case.

Failing to seek medical treatment can indicate to the insurance companies that you were not injured in your bike accident. 

7. Call a Bicycle Accident Attorney

After a bicycle accident, you might want to retreat and recover, but do not delay seeking legal support. There is a statute of limitations for bicycle accidents, which varies between states. In California, you have two years to file a personal injury claim. If you miss the deadline, you will not be able to file a claim.

Experienced bicycle accident attorneys will be familiar with the bicycle accident laws of your state. After an accident, you do not want to have to navigate the legal system and attempt to build a case. A professional attorney will support you and build a solid personal injury case, so you can get the compensation you deserve.

The Best Bicycle Accident Attorneys in Orange County

While you cannot control if a bicycle accident happens, you can control how you respond to it. Following these steps after a bicycle accident will help keep you safe, abide by bicycle accident laws, and focus on your recovery.

Compensation for an accident often does not cover the event’s emotional impact; however, it can help you get the support you deserve to move on with your life. You do not need to deal with the accident’s aftermath alone. Contact a professional bicycle accident lawyer to help.

Our bicycle accident attorneys in Southern California will fight for your legal rights. Schedule a free consultation with us to learn more about how we can help you.