Cycling is a common means of transportation for individuals. It has many benefits, such as enhancing physical fitness and environmental conservation.
However, a person can be knocked down by a vehicle or collide with other cyclists and sustain severe injuries, especially on the highway. This article describes the legal action a cyclist should take after an accident to protect their rights and interests.
Document the Incident
First, if the cyclist is not severely injured, they should collect adequate evidence on the accident scene before any involved party leaves. Photos of the damaged bicycle, shoes, injuries, or the driver’s car and license plate will help the attorney fight for the cyclist’s rights after accident. The cyclist should also record any damage on the road to support their claim in and out of court.
Legal experts always advise cyclists to collect witness information, including their names and contact information. If the injury was severe, they should request a person on the scene to document the incident on their behalf. Collecting details relating to an accident can strengthen the insurance claim.
After documenting the incident, cyclists should seek medical attention immediately. Some people go home if their injuries seem minor. However, it is crucial to note that the adrenaline the body produces during such serious incidents might mask severe damage, particularly internal.
For this reason, diagnosis and treatment by a medical professional is an effective way of prioritizing health and safety after the accident. These medical records will add weight to the evidence during the claim process.
File a Police Report
A cyclist should call police officers whenever they get involved in an accident that results in injuries or property damage. Alternatively, they can drive to the station and file an official police report, providing all the details about the accident. The police report might come in handy if the case proceeds to court.
Notify the Insurance
Injured cyclists should notify their insurance about the accident after hiring an experienced accident attorney. Some insurance companies contact their clients immediately after the accident to try to close the case as fast as possible by offering minimum compensation.
However, the best attorneys advise their clients on the documents they should or should not provide or sign and the words they should not say to avoid potentially weakening their claims.
Seek Legal Advice
Injured cyclists need to look for a qualified and experienced lawyer with sufficient knowledge and experience handling similar cases. These lawyers will advise the victim on the right claim amount, depending on the nature of the accident and the consequences of the accident.
For example, they can sue for personal injury if the accident was caused by a driver’s negligence, such as using their phone while driving or failing to obey the traffic lights. The claim is different if the cyclist ignored the traffic rules and road signs or if the accident was caused by poor road maintenance. Qualified accident lawyers also help their clients understand their rights. They will also advise them on the best steps to ensure they get the compensation they deserve.
These simple steps can help injured cyclists navigate the legal process correctly and recover the losses incurred through medical expenses or property damage. So, cyclists injured in accidents should collaborate with a cyclist accident attorney for advice and representation. However, they should choose a reliable and experienced attorney with years of relevant experience.
