What Should You Do After Getting Hurt in a Serious Bicycle Accident in California?
Knowing what you should do after a bicycle accident is confusing for many of our personal injury clients. After a collision, the last thing you are probably worried about is filing a lawsuit.
Berkeley has a high number of bicycle accidents, and roughly 100 cyclists are injured each year. Scott R. Herndon is a savvy attorney who knows what it takes to win cases. So, stick with us to learn what you should do after getting hurt in a serious bicycle accident in California.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After a serious bicycle accident, your immediate priority is your health. Even if you feel okay at first, adrenaline often masks pain. Call for an ambulance or have someone do it for you. Allow EMTs to evaluate you on-scene and take you to the hospital for a full medical evaluation. You want to ensure your injuries are properly diagnosed and well-documented. If you do not see a doctor right away, this choice may hurt your claim, because you want to link the accident with your injuries.
Wait for the Police and File a Report
Never leave the scene of a serious accident before law enforcement arrives. California law requires you to wait for the police when there are injuries or property damage. Ask the responding officers to create an official police report and ensure your version of events is noted. Make sure to get the officer’s names and badge numbers, as well as the official accident report number.
Document the Scene and Exchange Information
Gather as much evidence as you can while you are still at the scene, if physically possible. We suggest you do your best to collect:
- The driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, license plate, vehicle make and model, and insurance provider
- Names and phone numbers of witnesses, bystanders, and anyone who saw the crash
- Clear photos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, traffic signs, weather conditions, your bicycle damage, and your visible injuries
What Not to Do After Getting Hurt in a Bike Accident
Always watch what you say after any kind of accident and never admit fault. Even an innocent “I’m sorry” may be interpreted as accepting liability. Do not give a recorded statement to the driver’s insurance company without talking to a lawyer first. Insurers often try to shift blame to minimize their payouts.
You also want to preserve your bike and gear. Do not repair or wash your bicycle, helmet, or torn clothing until your case is resolved. They serve as critical physical evidence to show the force and angle of the impact.
Talk to Us About What You Should Do After a Bicycle Accident
The Law Office of Scott Herndon prides itself on a philosophy of meticulous care, professionalism, and empathy. It is our pleasure to help bring you the financial relief you are entitled to under state law.
