What Should You Do If You’ve Been In a Bicycle Accident?

What Should You Do If You’ve Been In A Bicycle Accident?

May is National Bicycle Safety Month and it's a great time to focus on, not just the benefits of cycling, but the dangers too. Bicycling is a beloved activity for many Americans and many more Floridians, providing a fun and healthy way to get around. With the rising costs of gas, it's an affordable and eco-friendly option for short distances. It's no wonder that so many Floridians choose to ride their bikes. 

Even though Florida doesn’t have the largest cycling population in the nation, it leads the country in terms of bicycle accident fatalities. It has actually been deemed the most dangerous state for cyclists with a rate of 6.18 deaths per 100,000 people, which is significantly higher than the national average, according to data from Cyclingweekly.com. 

In the unfortunate event of a bicycle accident, keeping a clear head afterwards is crucial. Your immediate actions could greatly affect the compensation you receive for both your injuries and bicycle damage. So stay vigilant and take the right steps to protect yourself in the aftermath.

Wait for the Police to Arrive

• It's crucial to obtain a police report following a bicycle accident, even if you believe you are unharmed. 
• Often, injuries may not manifest until later on, and without a report, it may be difficult to hold the responsible driver accountable. 
• Don't be swayed by the other party attempting to negotiate – they could deny everything later on. Securing a police report ensures that the incident is officially documented.
• The police report will have all the details of the driver and vehicle involved in the incident (to ensure accuracy, it's recommended to confirm this information with the driver themselves or designate someone to do so on your behalf, particularly if you have sustained injuries). 

Document Everything

• It's a no-brainer, but we'll say it anyway – record everything. If you are unable to, have someone record for you.
• Snap photos from every angle and shoot videos of the scene.
• You'll want to carefully document all the damage inflicted on your bicycle in the event of an accident. Don't forget to also note the location, time of day and any weather patterns that could have played a part. Every detail counts.
• It is necessary to maintain accuracy when recounting an incident, as the details may need to be repeated multiple times.
• Preserve any evidence you may have – avoid washing any clothing worn during the incident, and refrain from sending your equipment to anyone other than your attorney. 

Seek Medical Treatment Immediately

• Seek medical treatment right away, no matter how big or small your injuries. 
• Taking action and getting proper medical attention not only ensures that you are receiving proper care, but also establishes an official record of your injuries. 
• Taking photos of your injuries is also important. 

When it comes down to it, having the right legal support on your side can make all the difference in the aftermath of a bike accident. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, don't hesitate to reach out to the experienced attorneys at The Lewis Law Group. With our guidance and experience, you can rest assured that your case will be handled with the utmost care and attention to detail.