Going through a bike accident can be overwhelming and distressing. At Good Guys Injury Law, we recognize the uncertainty and confusion accompanying these events. Our goal is to provide you with clear and straightforward guidance to help you in the event of a bike accident.
After a bike crash, you should see a doctor first, even for seemingly minor injuries. Then, contact us for a free case consultation. What do you need to know?
Table of Contents
Ensure Your Safety
First and foremost, check yourself and all parties involved for any immediate dangers. If you can, move away from traffic to avoid further harm. If you can’t move, try to signal for help from passing drivers or bystanders. Ensuring your safety before addressing other concerns.
In addition, look for potential hazards around you. These could include oncoming traffic, broken glass, or other debris. Staying alert to your surroundings will help you avoid more injuries. Remember, your safety and well-being come first.
If you can move, find a safe spot away from the road and traffic. Then, assess the situation. Ensure that any other involved parties are also in a safe location. Moving to a safe place helps prevent additional accidents and injuries.
Accident Report
Regardless of the accident’s severity, you must call 911 and report the incident. Emergency responders can provide important medical care and document the incident. A professional evaluation can help identify any hidden injuries and ensure proper treatment.
Common Injuries in Bike Accidents
Once in a safe location, check yourself and others for injuries after the bike accident. Look for signs of trauma, such as cuts, bruises, signs of a head injury, or broken bones.
Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention promptly. You shouldn’t take a bicycle accident lightly. After all, a bike falls under the same laws as a vehicle on the road, according to Chapter 6a of Utah Bike Laws.
Take the time to assess your condition thoroughly.
- Head injuries: Wounds to the head are common in bike accidents, even with a helmet. If not looked after, these brain injuries can have long-term consequences. If you have a concussion, it’s primordial to get medical assistance to check your head.
- Broken bones: Bone fractures often occur in the arms, legs, and collarbones. Immediate medical evaluation is a must to set and treat fractures properly.
- Road rash: Scrapes and abrasions from sliding on pavement can be painful and prone to infection. Proper cleaning and medical treatment are important. Severe road rash may require skin grafts or other medical interventions.
- Spinal injuries: Injuries affecting the spine can range from minor to severe and could potentially lead to paralysis. Always take back or neck pain seriously after an accident. Get a diagnosis and follow-up treatment to avoid any long-term consequences.
Document the Accident
Once you’ve ensured your safety and others involved, it’s important to have proof of the accident. Take note of any conditions, such as weather and road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
Gather information about the location and time of the incident. Detailed documentation can be vital for insurance and legal purposes.
Take Photos and Videos and Collect Witness Information
Use your cell phone to take photos and videos of the accident scene. Capture any damage to your bike or any vehicles involved, including injuries. In addition, you need to collect information from any witnesses.
Exchange Information with the Driver
Exchanging information with the others involved in the accident is a critical step. Write down the name, license plate number, driver’s license number, and insurance information that hit you. Accurate information can facilitate the claim process. Be polite and cooperative during this exchange.
Share Contact and Insurance Details
When exchanging information, be sure to provide your contact and insurance details. Request the same from the other parties involved. Accurate information is essential for filing insurance claims and in any legal action.
Report the Bike Accident to the Police and File a Police Report
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to report it to the police. An official police report provides a formal record of the incident.
Look out for the accident report number for the bicycle crash. A law enforcement report will be of advantage in legal proceedings.
Provide the police with all necessary details and ensure you get a copy of the report. An official report can support your case and provide documentation.
Insurance Claims and How We Can Help
The process of filing an insurance claim can seem complicated. At Good Guys Injury Law, we can help guide you from the initial steps to the result of your claim. Our experienced team can assist with gathering the needed documentation and communicating with insurance companies.
Your recovery is important, so if needed, you can count on us to handle any communication with insurance while you focus on returning to your normal life.
Legal Considerations and Statute of Limitations in Utah
In Utah, you have a limited time to file a personal injury claim, generally up to four years from the accident date.
To succeed in such a case, you must provide evidence proving the other party’s negligence, demonstrating that they breached their duty of care.
Utah follows the comparative negligence statute, which means the value of your claim may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Therefore, you should attribute the other party as much blame as possible.
Having legal representation can significantly influence your case’s outcome, as a lawyer can help gather evidence and represent you in negotiations or court.
Prove Liability
Proving liability in a bike accident involves demonstrating that the other party was at fault. Evidence can be witness statements, photos, and police reports.
At Good Guys Injury Law, we are experienced in gathering and presenting this evidence. Our goal is to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Utah Bicycle Laws and Cyclist Legal Rights
Utah cyclists must obey traffic laws to avoid bicycle crashes. The insurance company will look for these details to determine how responsible you may be for a bicycle accident.
- Helmet use: While not mandatory for adults, helmet use is strongly recommended. Helmets can save your life or reduce the harm of head injuries.
- Bike lanes: Cyclists have the right to use bike lanes where available.
- Road use: Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles. They are entitled to use the full lane when needed.
- Night riding: Bicycles must have a white front light and a red rear reflector at nighttime. Lights and reflectors can increase visibility and safety while riding at night.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been in an accident, you should speak to a personal injury attorney, even before speaking with insurance. We care about our clients and want to ensure you get the best out of your situation. At Good Guys Injury Law, we provide consultations to get to know you and sincerely help you.
Our experienced lawyers can guide the best course of action in bicycle accidents, given our experience dealing with countless insurance companies. We are here to help you every step of the way.
Follow-Up Actions
After addressing major injuries, there are additional steps for bicycle safety, such as following up with your doctor to monitor your recovery. This is particularly important if you have suffered internal injuries. You should keep records of all your medical expenses or procedures. Staying organized can help support your case.
Keep a Record of Your Recovery
Maintaining a detailed record of your recovery process is important. Document all medical appointments, treatments, and any changes in your condition. This information can be critical for your case. Accurate records can help demonstrate the repercussions of the accident on your life.
Handle Property Damage After Your Bike Accident
Another important aspect is dealing with property damage. Take your bike to a professional for an assessment of the damage. Keep all repair receipts and estimates. This documentation will be useful for your insurance claim.
Advantages of a Personal Injury Consultation After a Bike Accident
- Expert guidance: A lawyer can provide expert advice tailored to your situation. A personal injury attorney ensures you are aware of your rights and options.
- Negotiation support: Lawyers can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Negotiating with insurance companies and considering your options appropriately can lead to a better outcome or compensation.
- Stress relief: Having a lawyer helps you stay organized, which reduces your stress and anxiety.
- Maximize compensation: Experienced lawyers know how to maximize your compensation. They know what evidence is needed to support your claim.
Call Our Utah Bike Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation
You should never feel like things are out of your control, especially after a bike accident. However, speaking with insurance can be intimidating or time-consuming, especially if you are going through the recovery process.
At Good Guys Injury Law, we are here to remove that burden. Our experienced team can negotiate and communicate with insurance companies to get the best compensation for your case. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you reach the settlement you deserve.