The injuries are much worse for a bicyclist after being hit by an automobile. That is because you do not have the benefit of being inside a vehicle that offers some protection, so you will need monetary compensation after a collision. What do you do first when this happens and what legal actions you need to take?
What to Do Legally After Being in a Biking Accident
Make Sure that Everyone Is Safe.
Move your bicycle out of the street and remain in a safe place. Then, call the police. Try to stand where you can easily be seen by passing traffic. Check to see if you have any pain, dizziness, bleeding or head trauma.
Remain at the Scene.
Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal, so remain where you are until the police arrive. Be courteous when you are speaking to the officers. Try not to be emotional and answer their questions honestly. You will need a copy of the police report for your personal injury attorney, so ask for the report number and a copy.
Gather Evidence.
If you can, gather evidence of the scene. Take pictures or videos from all angles. If there are bystanders, take their contact information. If they agree to be recorded, you can make a recording of their testimony.
Go to the Hospital.
Hospital staff will take thorough records of your injuries. Your attorney is going to need this information.
Call a Personal Injury Attorney.
After you hire a personal injury lawyer, he or she will take over from there. The lawyer’s office will conduct a full investigation and speak with the at-fault driver’s insurance company for you. Then, all you will need to do is heal.
Different Levels of Biking Accidents
A Right Cross Collision
The cyclist is riding with the flow of traffic when a vehicle pulls out of a driveway and hits the cyclist or pulls in front of the cyclist and causes him or her to crash into the motor vehicle.
A Left Cross Collision
In a left cross collision, the cyclist is riding with the flow of traffic, but a motor vehicle makes a right turn in front of the cyclist. This type of collision is rare.
Dooring
The cyclist is riding with the flow of traffic alongside parked cars. Dooring occurs when a motorist opens the left car door and strikes the cyclist. This is a fairly common bicycle accident.
Tips on Biking Accident Lawyers
Consult the State Bar Associations.
The first thing you will want to do is learn about the attorney’s reputation with the state bar. The attorney’s reputation must be active and in good standing. The state’s sub-associations can also inform you about a lawyer’s experience as a personal injury attorney.
Ask about a Contingency Fee.
The attorney’s fees stop people from contacting lawyers after they have been hurt in accidents. One of the first questions you will want to ask is whether or not the lawyer works on a contingency fee. This means that the attorney will not charge any fees while the case is going on. The attorney will be paid after you receive a settlement, but if he or she loses the case, you will not be charged.
