What To Do After A Crash

A lack of bike lanes, distracted drivers and badly broken streets — all of these factors create danger for people who commute to work on their bikes or enjoy cycling as a hobby. Many cyclists have experienced collisions with vehicles. When a bicycle accident happens, you are likely in the wrong state of mind to take the right steps to protect yourself. Attorney Joshua Cohen is an avid cyclist who has himself been hit by vehicles and has firsthand advice on what you can do after a crash to put yourself in the best position possible to seek compensation.

1

Call the Police and File an Accident Report

The first thing to do is call the police. File an accident report. This documents the incident and establishes the identities of witnesses. Before the police leave, go over the details of the incident again. They are only human and can misinterpret statements – it is much easier to correct any errors on-site. Additionally, ask the officer for their business card.

4

Don’t Make Any Statements

Do not make any statements about your crash – written, recorded or posted on social media – without a lawyer. Do not negotiate with the driver. Don’t take the blame. Don’t apologize after the incident. This apology could be seen later as an admission of fault. Anything you say to another driver or witness or on social media could be used against you later.

6

Retain Legal Counsel

2

Exchange Information

Get the name, address, phone number, license plate and insurance information from the driver and contact information from any witnesses.

3

Photograph Evidence

Carry a cellphone with a camera to photograph the scene. Even if the bicycle is completely totaled, do not leave it at the scene. Photograph your bike, your injuries and, if possible, the car in the state it was in after the accident. Do not move it until the police have arrived and inspected it.

5

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

It can be a relief to feel like you’ve walked away from an accident without a scratch. Still, you should see a doctor as soon as you can. Seemingly small injuries from a bicycle accident may be much worse than they appear. Symptoms may not arise for several days or even weeks. When in doubt, call an ambulance or go to the ER to get checked out.

7

Keep a Post-Crash Diary

A descriptive record of your injuries and the collision can go a long way in helping prove your injuries and damages in a bicycle crash case. Note the time of the crash, what you were doing that day, the weather, the scene, the driver’s vehicle description, and any conversations you heard from eye witnesses or the police after the crash. Track your medical treatments and pain levels in the journal daily. Note how you are feeling emotionally if you have missed any activities or work.

1

Call the Police and File an Accident Report

The first thing to do is call the police. File an accident report. This documents the incident and establishes the identities of witnesses. Before the police leave, go over the details of the incident again. They are only human and can misinterpret statements – it is much easier to correct any errors on-site. Additionally, ask the officer for their business card.

2

Exchange Information

Get the name, address, phone number, license plate and insurance information from the driver and contact information from any witnesses.

3

Photograph Evidence

Carry a cellphone with a camera to photograph the scene. Even if the bicycle is completely totaled, do not leave it at the scene. Photograph your bike, your injuries and, if possible, the car in the state it was in after the accident. Do not move it until the police have arrived and inspected it.

4

Don’t Make Any Statements

Do not make any statements about your crash – written, recorded or posted on social media – without a lawyer. Do not negotiate with the driver. Don’t take the blame. Don’t apologize after the incident. This apology could be seen later as an admission of fault. Anything you say to another driver or witness or on social media could be used against you later.

5

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

It can be a relief to feel like you’ve walked away from an accident without a scratch. Still, you should see a doctor as soon as you can. Seemingly small injuries from a bicycle accident may be much worse than they appear. Symptoms may not arise for several days or even weeks. When in doubt, call an ambulance or go to the ER to get checked out.

6

Retain Legal Counsel

7

Keep a Post-Crash Diary

A descriptive record of your injuries and the collision can go a long way in helping prove your injuries and damages in a bicycle crash case. Note the time of the crash, what you were doing that day, the weather, the scene, the driver’s vehicle description, and any conversations you heard from eye witnesses or the police after the crash. Track your medical treatments and pain levels in the journal daily. Note how you are feeling emotionally if you have missed any activities or work.

For A Free Consultation, Contact Us

In a city dominated by cars, we’re devoted to fighting for the rights of cyclists and advocating for safer roads. Call our lawyers if you were injured in an accident at 323-746-8531 or send us an email.