If you’ve been in a bike accident, you might feel shocked or unsure what to do next. It’s important to stay calm and follow a few critical steps to ensure your personal and bicycle safety while protecting your rights. Your actions immediately following the accident can affect your health and any future claims you might need to make.
At Good Guys Injury Law, we are here to fight for you. We know how confusing it can be after a bike crash, and we can guide the way.
Of course, you need to prioritize your safety and protect your rights. At the same time, what does this look like? Learn more below. Then, contact us to schedule a free consultation.
Table of Contents
Why Do Bicycle Crashes Happen in Utah?
- Distracted driving: Many bicycle accidents occur because drivers aren’t paying full attention to the road. Drivers may be texting, talking on the phone, or distracted by other tasks, leading to a failure to see cyclists.
- Poor road conditions: Cracks, potholes, and debris on Utah’s roads can cause cyclists to lose control and crash. These conditions often result from insufficient maintenance and can be particularly dangerous in poorly lit areas. They can lead to major bike accidents.
- Driver impatience: Some accidents happen because drivers are too impatient. They might pass cyclists too closely or speed, especially on roads with narrow or no bike lanes.
- Cyclist errors: Accidents can also stem from cyclist mistakes, such as ignoring traffic signals, riding against traffic, or not using lights at night.
- Weather conditions: Bad weather, including rain, snow, and ice, significantly increases the risk of bike crashes. Slippery roads make it harder for both cyclists and drivers to maintain control.
Focus On Your Safety and Get to a Safe Location
Immediately after a bike accident, your safety is the priority. Suppose you can move yourself and your bicycle out of the road to a safe spot. Avoid staying in heavy traffic or unstable terrain where further accidents could occur. Once safe, assess the situation and your condition calmly.
Stay put if you are gravely injured. Trying to move might worsen your serious injuries. Signal to others for help and wait for emergency services to arrive. This is especially important if you suspect you have head injuries or other dire harm.
Look for injuries, and Call 911 for Medical Assistance
Even if you think you feel pain and your injuries are minor, you must seek medical attention promptly. Shock and adrenaline can mask pain and symptoms.
Calling 911 ensures you get a professional medical assessment and helps document the accident, which is important for future insurance claims. This is even more important for critical injuries, such as a head injury.
It is essential to ensure that medical help is on the way. If you are capable, provide basic first aid to yourself or others. Avoid any movements or actions that could exacerbate injuries, especially if head or spinal injuries are suspected.
Report the Accident to the Police
Reporting your bike accident to the police is vital. A police report is an official event record necessary for insurance and legal processes. The officers will document the scene, take statements, and collect information that proves invaluable later.
Get a Copy of the Police Report
Once the first police officer have made their report, ensure you obtain a copy. This report is required for your insurance claim and any legal action. The police report details the crash scene, witness information, and the officer’s initial findings, all of which are imperative in building your case.
Exchange Information with Involved Parties
Next, swap contact and insurance information with all parties involved. Get the driver’s license number, vehicle registration, and insurance details from any drivers involved. Also, contact information from witnesses should be gathered, as their testimony might be vital later.
Be polite but cautious when talking to other parties. Stick to exchanging information without discussing fault or details of the accident. This conversation can be used against you in legal or insurance proceedings.
Take Photos and Document the Scene
Snap pictures of the crash site, your injuries, and any damages to your bike and the vehicles involved. Capture different angles and specific details, like road conditions or traffic signs. These images are valuable evidence for your insurance claim and potential legal action.
Seek Further Medical Attention
After the initial emergency care, follow up with additional medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, some conditions, like internal injuries or concussions, can appear days later. Visit your doctor or an emergency room to get a full evaluation.
Document all visits, treatments, and conversations with healthcare providers. Keep records of medical expenses and any related costs. These documents are important for your insurance claim and any legal actions.
Document All Injuries and Medical Treatments
Keep a detailed record of all injuries and medical treatments. Note all symptoms, even those that seem as seemingly minor injuries, like bruises or cuts. Document every doctor’s visit, treatment, medication, and any effects on your daily life. These records are vital for proving the extent and impact of your injuries.
Call Our Utah Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you’re involved in a bike crash, calling a knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer should be one of your next steps. A lawyer can walk you through the legal process and help protect your rights. They can also address communications with insurers and involved parties.
Legal support is essential, especially when dealing with complex claims or disputes over fault. A skilled bicycle accident lawyer will ensure that your side of the story is heard and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Cyclist
Knowing your rights as a cyclist can empower you in the aftermath of a bike accident. You have the right to travel safely and receive compensation for injuries caused by an accident involving someone else’s negligence.
A bicycle accident lawyer can explain these rights in detail and help you know how they apply to your situation.
Do Not Admit Fault at the Scene
It’s important not to admit fault at the accident scene. Anything you say can be used against you in legal proceedings or by insurance companies. Let the facts speak for themselves, and allow your lawyer to discuss fault and liability.
Call Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurer about the bike accident report as soon as you can. Be honest and provide them with the facts, but avoid giving detailed statements or admitting fault until you have spoken with your lawyer.
How to Report the Accident to Your Insurer
When reporting the accident to your insurance, stick to the basic facts. Provide them with the accident’s date, time, and location, and inform them that a police report was made. Keep details minimal until you have legal representation.
Let Us Deal with Insurance Adjusters
Dealing with insurance adjusters can be challenging. They will try to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. Let our experienced lawyers handle these conversations. They know how to negotiate to ensure you get the compensation you need for recovery.
We Can Help You Maximize the Value of Your Claim
At Good Guys Injury Law, we are committed to helping you maximize the value of your bike accident claim. We know the common obstacles in bicycle accident cases and work diligently to ensure you get the best possible outcome.
Our experienced team will collect evidence, get medical records, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and, if needed, represent you in court. We take every case seriously, whether minor injuries or more severe traumas. Our goal is to help you recover fully, not just physically but also financially.
After a bicycle crash, seek medical attention promptly. However, do not forget to call us for help after your bike crash. We are here to act as your advocates and defend your rights.
Schedule a Free Case Consultation With Our Utah Bike Accident Lawyer
Don’t face the aftermath of a bike accident alone. Contact Good Guys Injury Law for a free case consultation.
Our Utah bike accident lawyers are ready to help you be aware of your options and guide you through the legal process. We’re here to support you and ensure you get the justice, healing process, and compensation you deserve.
Remember, the time to file a claim can be limited. Act quickly to ensure your rights are protected. Call us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards recovery. Our team is committed to helping you move forward after a bike accident.