When riding a bicycle on the road you are probably a little apprehensive, but overall trusting of others around you. After all, bike lanes weren’t invented for no reason. There are even strict rules on how to use the bike lane for bikers and how to pass a bike lane for drivers; nonetheless, bicyclists are still hit by cars every year. While everyone thinks it won’t happen to them, it very well could. It’s important to be prepared and always know the steps to take after you, or another biker has been hit by a vehicle. That way, you are prepared and know how to protect your rights. Here at Lieberman Injury Law, our team specializes in all kinds of injury law – including bicycle accidents. If you or a loved one has been hit by a vehicle and are looking for justice, we’re the team for you.
Step 1: Call the Police or Wait for Them to Arrive
After being hit by a car you are likely to suffer from a few scratches and bruises; however, many cases can result in more severe injuries. Regardless of what side of the spectrum you fall on, you should remain at the scene and wait for the police to arrive. The law states that everyone involved in a car accident has to stay on the scene and call the police if someone was injured or if property damage has occurred. You may be able to walk around and feel completely normal after being hit, but you never know what kind of pain could occur after a few days. Try and remember that in this situation you are the victim. Having the police aware of what happened can only help you.
Step 2: Try and Avoid Unnecessary Talking to the Motorist
We see people make this mistake all the time. Do not speak with the motorist about the accident or your injuries. The driver will probably want to apologize and make excuses for their behavior, don’t buy into it. Although they may be sorry, they still need to be held accountable. The last thing you want is to see the motorist claim they never hit you. You do, however, want to speak with them briefly to get the necessary information such as the driver’s name, address, license number, license plate number, phone number, and insurance policy number.
Step 3: Get Witness Contact Information
If there were any witnesses on the scene of the accident then you must get their contact information. They can vouch for you that the driver did hit you.
Step 4: Talk to the Police
By now, the police should have arrived and will be talking to you and the driver about what happened. Make sure everything that happened is on the police report. Everything from what direction you were going to what injuries you sustained should be on the report. Also, be sure to get the accident report number so you can make any changes to it in the future. Sometimes in the heat of the moment, we forget important details, this is the best way to add in those details when you remember them.
Step 5: See a Doctor and Call a Lawyer
The last thing you are going to want is to see a medical professional. If your injuries are bad you may be transported to the nearest hospital in an ambulance, otherwise, you should drive to your doctor to be seen. Make sure to hold on to the written evaluation and keep track of all of your symptoms, this will be important for your case. Next, you are going to want to contact a lawyer from Lieberman Injury Law. Having an attorney on your side can help you with the insurance company. They also can represent you if you are going to be pursuing a case against the motorist.
Contact Us Today
If you are looking for a bicyclist injury attorney then look no further than Lieberman Injury Law. Our team has the knowledge and ability to help you out with your case. Whether you just need someone to negotiate with the insurance companies, or you need someone to represent your case, we have you covered. To learn more about Lieberman Injury law, or to get your free consultation, give us a call today at (954) 596-9944.