Being involved in a car-bicycle collision is a frightening and often life-altering event. Knowing the appropriate steps to take following a bicycle accident can be crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the necessary medical attention. Here are some essential actions to take if you’ve been hit by a car while riding a bicycle:

Step #1: Prioritize Your Safety

The immediate aftermath of an accident can be chaotic. If you can move and it’s safe to do so, get out of the roadway to avoid further injury from oncoming traffic. If you’re seriously injured and can’t move, try to signal for help until first responders arrive.

Step #2: Call 911

Regardless of the accident’s severity, report the incident to the police as soon as physically possible (preferably while you’re at the scene of the accident). The resulting police report can serve as an important piece of evidence in any legal action you may decide to pursue later.

Step #3: Seek Medical Attention

Even if you believe you’ve only suffered minor injuries, it’s critical to get medical help immediately. In the adrenaline-filled moments after an accident, your body might not register pain properly. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, might not show symptoms immediately but can be serious or even fatal if left untreated.

Step #4: Document the Incident

Collect as much information as possible from the driver, including their name, contact details, driver’s license number, their license plate number, and insurance information. If there are any witnesses, try to get their contact information as well. Take photos and video of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bike or the car. If you’re too injured to do this, ask someone at the scene for help.

Step #5: Don’t Negotiate with the Driver

In the moments following an accident, emotions run high. While it may seem instinctive to discuss or even argue about what happened, refrain from getting into negotiations with the driver. You might inadvertently say something that could be used against you later. It’s best to limit your interaction to exchanging necessary information.

Step #6: Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Even as a bicyclist, you may be covered under your auto insurance policy or the defendant driver’s insurance policy. It’s best to report the accident as soon as possible to your insurance company but remember to stick to the facts and avoid making any statements about fault.

Step #7: Consult with a Bicycle Accident Attorney

Navigating the legal aftermath of a car-bicycle collision can be complicated. An experienced bicycle accident attorney can guide you through the process, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Contact RTRLAW for Legal Assistance Today!

The immediate steps you take after being hit by a car while riding a bicycle can significantly impact your physical recovery and legal rights. Stay calm, act deliberately, and consult with an attorney as soon as possible. At RTRLAW, we stand ready to provide the help you need after such an unfortunate event. Our attorneys are skilled at handling bicycle accident cases and are committed to fighting for your rights. Reach out to us for a free, no-obligation case review right away to find out how we can assist you. Call us toll free now at 1-833-HIRE-RTR (1-833-447-3787) for assistance.