For many Pennsylvania residents, cycling is a sport, a hobby, and a means to stay fit. However, the two-wheeler also has a significant dark side—the risk of a bicycle accident. Crashes involving cyclists and motorists can be dangerous because of the sheer weight difference between a small sedan and the average bicycle.
So, what happens if you are the unfortunate victim of a bicycle accident? The most important thing is to consult an accident attorney, such as Rich Godshall. When you do this, you maximize your chances of getting compensation for your injuries and mental trauma.
With that being said, let’s take a look at this blog, which will give you actionable guidelines and show you what steps to take to get compensation for your injuries.
What Is a Bicycle Accident?
A bicycle accident is a road crash where a motorist behind the wheel of a vehicle hits a pedestrian on a bicycle, causing injuries. Such accidents may also involve one cyclist hitting another.
In any case, the first course of action should be to call 911 for help. Law enforcement will often accompany medical personnel.
The attending officer will write a police report containing the at-fault party, depending on their analysis of the events that led to the accident. You should contact local law enforcement to request this report, as you can use it to seek compensation.
Remember that you may be required to pay a small fee when requesting the police report in Pennsylvania. The at-fault party will compensate the victim for the injury through their insurance company. For instance, if a car driver is found to have been driving while intoxicated and caused an accident where they injured a cyclist, they may be required to compensate the victim for their injuries.
What Should You Do if You Find Yourself a Victim?
Bicycle accidents can happen to any of us. All it takes is one rogue driver to cause a crash. And while you may feel as though the world is falling apart, keeping your mind clear is crucial to making the right decisions.
The journey to seeking compensation for your injuries begins with the steps you take right after the accident. Here is what you should do:
Collect Evidence
Evidence is the foundation of any case, including a personal injury lawsuit. Victims of bicycle accidents should collect and keep as much evidence as possible relating to the incident.
This process starts immediately after the accident. If you can, take photos of the vehicle, your bicycle, the surrounding area, and the weather conditions at the time of the incident.
Call Law Enforcement Officials
After a crash, you should call law enforcement officials immediately. This way, you are creating documentation that you can use to get the compensation you deserve. Make sure you keep a copy of the police report so that you also have a record of the incident with you.
Seek Medical Help
Even if you feel unscathed, visiting your doctor for a comprehensive medical checkup is recommended. Why? The adrenaline rush may mask some injuries, and others may take some time to manifest.
Keep all documentation relating to your treatment. Every single receipt is as important as the last one. Every doctor’s note, prescription, and medical report. Such documents may prove useful when pursuing your claim.
Call Your lawyer
Last but not least, call your attorney. While you may pursue the claim yourself, there may be better ideas. There are many legal nuances and deadlines to keep up with.
A personal injury lawyer can give you legal advice on the most suitable strategy to pursue compensation and protect you from the underhanded tactics of insurance agents.
End Note
Bicycle accidents are more common than ever. There are many reasons for this increase, including texting while driving, speeding, etc. There are certain steps that cyclists can take if they find themselves in an accident. From seeking medical attention to consulting a lawyer, there are many steps that the victim needs to follow.
